heater size (Watts) for a 400 litre tank

[Pete]

Hi going to get a new Visitherm heater for our Rio 400 the temperature dropped to 20C in the tank I put in an additional spare heater and turned the origanal heater up and the temperature is now Ok and stable at 24C
but dont want to take any chances as the heater is a few years old now
I thought at first that is was the colder weather but the temp our other tank also a Rio 400 is stable at 24C so it must be the heater

Just want to check that a 200 watt is the right size :clap: been a while since we have bought a heater

Going to get a Vistherm again as they are reliable unlike the one that came with the tank!
Pete

 

[bigbird]

Hello Pete,

the 200watt should be enough for up to 400liter tank.
I usually have always 2 heaters per tank. One is set at the desired temp and the other 2C below this. The second one then activates just in case the first one fails. Also for larger tanks, 2 heaters are better for less variation in temp range through the tank. I would also go for Eheim/Jager heaters, just find them the best although pricy, they do last longer I feel. cheers jk :thumbup:

 

[Pete]

Hi thanks very much

two heaters sounds like a good idea:clap:

 

[Pete]

Have ordered an Jager Heater looks good should arrive tomm:clap:
our local shop did not have a big enough one in stock, I guess nobody in North wales has big tanks!

 

[mrRRunner]

Hi,
I also have a rio 400 and use 2x 300W heaters, one at each end and my temp stays very stable, I would say through experience 200W is a bit on the low side, I've heard 1 watt per litre is a good guide, room temp can also effect how stable the tank can be.

 

[jessonthenet]

Hi,

I have the same size tank and have a 300 watt heater, it is fine. The tank is in a heated room in the house with little draughts . I wouldn't have less than that though.