Need New Heater, Share your experiences.

Guys, I'm replacing my old heater who gave up on me. [STRIKE]I'm at petsafe[/STRIKE] and I have a fluval M300 (300W) for $45.99 +tax and a aqueon 300W with temp control, shatter resistant and aut overheat protections for $42.99 + tax. Which one should I go with? I never dealt with any of the 2 brands I just mentioned.

Thanks in advance.

 

I have the Aqueon 200w in my 40gal. and it does ok,doesn't seem to live up to it's rating though(tank size rating).

 

Thanks for the input sailorguy!

I ended up getting the Aqueon, but only because it is an emergency. I would like some more input from all 3reefers on a reliable brand. I don't want to make the marineland mistake again and your advice is very much appreciated.

- Magnus.

PS: The more I read about this particular Aqueon heater, the more I want a different brand. I will return it as soon as I make a decision based on the 3reefer's expertise.

 

I have an HMO line finnex that I really like. It has a built in thermometer, titanium heating element, and digital controller built into it. It does great, and is really compact. I would look into these. It also has built in overheat protection

 

Thanks, DrewSK! I was looking at the Eheim JAGER TruTemp Aquarium Heater (200W) in BRS, I know the 250W and the 300W are the same price, but I only have about 15 inches of space in the sump to accommodate it. There goes my "the bigger the better" option.

I'm going to look into the Finnex as well... They all seem to be about the same price... so your experience with these products is a great help.

 

I have 2 x 400 watt Hydor Theo's on my 120 connected to a reefkeeper lite. They seem to do the job just fine.

 

800 watt titanium Finnex with no thermostat, connect to a Reef Angel. Easily maintains temp within .2 degrees, and only $55. Any heater with a built in thermostat has a high rate of failure, IME.

 

Been using these for many years and have never failed me.

 

I have Eheim Jagers in all of my tanks. Two of my tanks are controlled by Reef Angels though, but the ones that aren't still seem to do a good job of maintaining temp.

 

I have used Via Aqua Titaniums for 9 years now with no issues. The separate controller and temp sensor are very reliable and very accurate.
I have not used a glass heater in 15 years.