Best Aquarium Heater: 12 Picks in 2022 & Buying Guide

Unlike people, fish can’t normalize their own body temperature and this is where the best aquarium heater comes into play. An aquarium heater is designed to keep an aquarium at consistent temperatures. What’s more, it comes with many different forms some comes with an adjustable thermostat while others don’t have.

Nowadays, there are tons of aquarium heaters out there. As a result, choosing the best one can be very confusing. To help you, in this post, we are going to guide you on the things that you need to consider when choosing a reliable and safe aquarium heater. In addition to that, we will do a deep review of the top 12 best heaters where you can choose from.

Important Factors to Consider

Listed below are the important factors that must be taken into consideration when looking for the best heater that will suit your tank.

Adjustable Temperature

Always remember that the best heaters are the ones that have an adjustable temperature gauge. Thus, if the model that you’re considering doesn’t have this feature, it is best that you look for another one.

In fact, it is extremely beneficial particularly if you need to modify the temperature for some reasons.

Watts

The wattage will determine the ability of the heater to heat as well as keep the anticipated temperature in the aquarium.

Generally, you will need three to five watts for every one gallon of water. However, we also recommend that you use two aquarium heaters as contrasting to one heater that’s super strong.

When making a purchase, make sure not to opt for a model that has too much power for your fish tank.

Nevertheless, a 50-watt heater is suitable for aquariums that are up to 15gals, while a 100-watt is suitable for aquariums that can hold up 65gals of water. But if your aquarium is quite big, then investing in a 300-watt model is a great idea.

Safety Features

When you’re in the market for an aquarium heater, make sure to opt for a model that’s fully submergible.

Further, an automatic shut-off feature is very important too. With this feature, the heater will shut-off automatically once the tank’s temperature becomes too high or the water level becomes low.

Another safety feature that you need to look for is the light indicator. Meaning to say, the product has a light when it is on and when it’s heating.

Price

The cost of aquarium heaters will vary depending on the manufacturer and the features they offer.

If you choose a popular and reliable brand then you’re certain that you will get a high-quality product, but sometimes it’s quite costly.

So before you make a purchase, think about your budget and how much you’re willing to spend.

Ease of Maintenance

In the future, you’ll need to deal with the dispute of maintenance. It will all come down how easy to maintain the aquarium heater is. Choose a product that’s simple to clean. The same goes for how easy to replace worn out or broken parts.

Types

Today, there are various types of aquarium heaters on the market. Choices include the substrate, in-sump, in-line, in-filter, immersible, and submersible aquarium heaters. If you pick carefully and wisely, you’re certain that they will offer you great performance.

However, it is very important that you understand how every kind works before you make a purchase. Nevertheless, submersible aquarium heaters are the most popular and tend to offer the performance you desire.

Top 12 Best Aquarium Heater

Here’s the list of the best aquarium heaters that are currently available on the market. Note that the products are listed in no particular order.

Eheim Jager Aquarium Thermostat Heater

This 200-watt aquarium water sports a simple design and has a tube-like style. Its temperature control, on the other hand, is very easy to use and read. In fact, it’s not a difficult system making it ideal for the majority of users. Moreover, its upfront function controls will allow you to set the heater to your desired temperature with ease. It also has an on/off light indicator that will notify you if the device is working.

When it comes to the thermostat it is recalibrated to ensure that there will be no problem with the performance. With this heater, you’ll also get additional protection system. The main purpose of this protection to aid you in switching off the heater once the water level gets low. What’s more, it helps in avoiding cases of burning or overheating.

Aqueon Pro Submersible Heater

Measuring in at 4” by 14” by 2”, the Aqueon Pro is a fully submersible aquarium heater. This 100-watt model is very easy to install, however, it is very important that you follow the provided instructions in the setup guide. The temperature of this heater is in Fahrenheit and in fact, you will just have to set it horizontally to view the temperature setting.

In terms of the warranty, it is truly amazing. Actually, the warranty is out of work because it is virtually durable and shatter-proof. Moreover, it consists of an electronic thermostat, meaning this heater is so accurate. Such advantages and features make Aqueon Pro one of the most reliable heaters on the market.

AquaTop Quart Glass Submersible Heater

The AquaTop Quartz Glass Submersible Heater is available in a wide variety of sizes or wattages from 50-watt to 300-watt. Other than that, it is fully submersible and takes note, it is available at a very affordable price. Another good thing about it is that you can place it anywhere in your aquarium. What’s more, it has a generous temperature ranging from 68-degree Fahrenheit to 93-degree Fahrenheit.

This product is specially designed to keep the temperature on your tank consistent by switching on automatically once the temperature drops and when it becomes high. Further, it comes with an adjustable temperature setting and thermometer that is easy to read. Last but not least, it is suitable for saltwater and freshwater aquarium use.

Tetra HT Submersible Heater w/ Electronic Thermostat

The Tetra HT Submersible Heater is one of the well-known models in the market that is suitable for smaller aquariums. Similar to other options this list, it is also fully submersible. Furthermore, you can install it either horizontally or vertically thus you can position anywhere with ease. Available in 50-watt and 100-watt, this best aquarium heater can hold up to 30 gallons of water.

Moreover, it comes with an inbuilt electronic thermostat that will maintain the temperature of the tank at 78-degree Fahrenheit automatically. On the other hand, it comes with an indicator light that notifies you if the device is activated. The light will turn green once the desired temperature has been reached. And when it’s heating up, the light will turn red.

Hygger Submersible Aquarium Heater

If you own a betta fish you will need to set the appropriate temperature of the tank at all times. Even so, with the help of Hygger Aquarium Heater, you will be able to do this job easily. This model can be adjusted with a nice controller that dangles outside your tank. Its unique milky quartz built will last up to 3 years most especially in the saltwater. What’s more, it also comes with a LED light that indicates if the tank is heated completely.

The Hygger Submersible Aquarium Heater comes with both safety and reliable feature. As a matter of fact, when an issue takes place, this unit will shut off automatically. Aside from that, it also comes with an inbuilt thermometer. However, keep in mind that this heater is not suitable for aquariums with turtles.

Fluval E Electronic Heater

The Fluval E Electronic Heater comes with an LCD display that offers an instant reading of the temperature of the water. The reader, on the other hand, can be changed over between Celsius and Fahrenheit. What’s more, it depends on two different sensors to offer high levels of accuracy. Since it is available in 200-watt and 300-watt options, you can also use the Fluval E for bigger aquariums.

Design-wise, it is well designed and has a sleek profile that will surely blend in with your tank. Further, this model is factory calibrated and backed with five years warranty. Nevertheless, before using this aquarium heater make sure that you check its user manual first.

ISTA Inline External Heater

If you want to save space in your tank to offer more room for your fish then this heater is for you. This inline model will warm up the water inside your tank from the exterior thru an accessory to its filtration system.The ISTA external heater is highly efficient owing to its thermal glass design. Additionally, it is very easy to install and you can set the  temperature with the push of one button.

Another good thing about this model product is that it is available in 6 different models, thus you’re certain that there’s at least one that will suit your tank. Also, it is suitable for both saltwater and freshwater tanks. The only drawback of this in-line aquarium heater is that its LED only provides a Celsius temperature setting. But, it is not a major issue at all.

SZELAM Smart Mini Aquarium Heater

Are you looking for an aquarium heater that can accommodate up to 5 gallons of water? If yes, then the SZELAM Smart Mini Aquarium Heater can be a great option. This one of the best aquarium heaters that are very easy to use. All you need to do is connect it inside your tank and then plug it in. Aside from that, it will set the temperature automatically between 78 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit. Being that said, it is perfect to use for hardy tropical fishes.

On the plus side, this product is extremely durable. Its ABS plastic will not sear your fish especially if they rub up against the heater. Also, it is shatterproof to keep the inhabitants of the tank safe. Available at less than $15, the SZELAM heater is a cheap option for small aquariums. Nevertheless, it comes with artificial plants.

FREESEA Aquarium Fish Tank Submersible Heater

If you are looking for an easy to hide and compact aquarium heater then look no further than the FREESEA submersible heater. This heater makes use of a simple outdoor button to set your desired temperature between 59-degree and 64-degree Fahrenheit. Other than that, it also has a large LED display that is easy to read. One more thing it is backed with a one-year warranty.

The FREESEA aquarium heater comes with integrated suction cups. When the temperature of the water reaches the specified temp value, it will stop heating automatically. But if the temperature is lower than the specified value the heater will start heating automatically. Either way, when you’re changing the water or cleaning the tank make sure to unplug it to avoid problems.

Cobalt Aquatics Flat Neo-Therm Aquarium Heater

The Cobalt Aquatics Flat Neo-Therm heater comes with a flat and small size design that will suit various spaces easily. In fact, this heater will only take up a small space inside the tanks. With regards to the control, no doubt, it is very immersive. It’s a one-touch system which lets you control the heater’s operation easily. What’s more, adjusting the temperature is easy too. Actually, you can adjust the temperature between 66 to 96 degrees Fahrenheit.

Similar to other models, it also comes with an indicator light that will let you know if the device is working. Bear in mind that their light will keep on flashing ‘til the water reaches its desired temperature. For further reliability as well as safety, this aquarium heater comes with a thermal protection circuitry. If the device starts to overheat, this feature will shut down the heater.

ViaAqua Quartz Glass Submersible Heater

This fully submersible heater from ViaAqua is perfect to use in both saltwater and freshwater aquariums. It also has a visible temperature setting that allows you to control the temperature easily. The ViaAqua heater is very easy to install and comes with suction cups to secure it to your aquarium. This model, on the other hand, is made of break-resistant and high-quality quartz glass.

Nonetheless, it is available in a wide variety of sizes, thus there are lots of options to choose from.

Finnex Hang-on Aquarium Heater

The Finnex Hang-on Heater is made of solid material. One of the best things about this model is that it will heat up the water more rapidly with a temperature range from 70 to 90 degrees. It is equipped with a heater guard that will protect the fish from touching its hot surface. Moreover, its analog controller is very easy to use as well. As a matter of fact, you can place it around the exterior of your tank.

On the other hand, the titanium tubes are corrosion resistant making them virtually unbreakable for freshwater and saltwater aquariums. You can also hide these tubes because they’re compact in size. In addition to that, it comes with a LED indicator that let you know if the aquarium heater is working.

Conclusion

There you have it the top 12 aquarium heaters where you can choose from. Hopefully, you are now ready to buy the best aquarium heater since you already have an idea what makes a good model is. With a bit of research, rest assured that you will end up with the best product.