Best Heaters 2020
Aquarium heaters are one of the most essential parts of a thriving aquarium, whether you may use one year round or only for a short while. Over the years, the market has become saturated with a plethora of options in all shapes and sizes when it comes to heaters, but were here to talk about the best. While the main goal of keeping a reef tank between the temperatures of 76 and 80 degrees remains the same, the heaters which allow you to achieve those temperatures have continued to evolve.
In this report, we want to give you the rundown on which heater will fit best with your aquarium. The main categories we will be looking at include the best budget heater, the best heater for a nano tank, and the best overall heater.
Best Aquarium Heater on a Budget: Eheim Jager TruTemp
The Eheim Jager TruTemp Fully Submersible Heater is a heater that we have all come to know and truly love. This heater has changed very little over the past 5 years as it is still one of the most well built, reliable, and budget friendly heaters around. In addition to being fully submersible, this heater also features run-dry protection that will turn off the heater if it is no longer submersed in water. The shatterproof glass adds to the durability that you have come to expect from all Eheim products. It is nearly impossible to find a more durable, reliable, and proven heater on the market at a better price.
Best Heater for Nano Systems: Cobalt Aquatics Neo-Therm
Nano systems have been a huge trend in the aquarium industry for years, its where a lot of us got our start. These tanks are currently the most popular size range for entry level hobbyists. Space is at a premium within these small systems so finding a heater that can fit and still be reliable is often difficult. That is why the Cobalt Aquatics Neo-Therm is one of the best aquarium heaters for a nano tank. The slim profile and easy to set, “One touch” display gives the Neo-Therm the upper hand when it comes to squeezing it into tight spaces. An ultra-accurate thermostat and LED display rounds out this compact, effective, and durable heater. Even in the tightest of spaces, Cobalt has found a way to keep your tank at the proper temperature.
Best Overall Heater: Finnex HMA-S With Guard and Analog Controller
The Finnex HMA-S series is a superior line of heaters that are built to last. This is certainly an inexpensive heater so many of the features you would come to expect in a higher budget option are prevalent. The heater includes an external analog controller that allows for quick and easy temperature adjustments without getting your hands wet. The titanium built heater is even more durable than shatter resistant glass and they can be used in freshwater, saltwater, and reef aquariums. The features and durability built into this product are elite and that is why it is one of the best aquarium heaters on the market.