Heater and controller choice

[azreef729]

I have a 65g all in one tank that I want to get a heater and controller for. What choices out there are readily available and proven to be dependable? I’ve heard 2 smaller heaters might be a better choice than one?

 

[Tinklez]

Following

 

[Lagoon Reef Keeper]

Titanium heaters (BRS are great) on an INKBIRD. 3-5W per gallon, split in half between 2 if you wanna be extra cautious.

 

[rowenaad]

inkbird is what im using. you can get a heating only with backup socket or heating and cooling

 

[Fredlee]

There are many good heaters to choose from and yes two are better than one large one. On controllers I prefer Inkbird. Long before they made a dedicated Aquarium heater controller they made and still do, a heater and cooling digital controller for industries. I purchased one from an online source and made my own electrical box with switched outlets that is now available with all the work completed in one neat package. They have several models to choose from.

 

[55NEVER]

In my opinion by 2 smaller heater for redundancy. If 1 fails, the other will likely be working. I run Titanium heaters on a Ranco Controller and back up the Ranco with my Apex to make sure nothing over heats my tank. The Ranco itself is arguably one of the best controller on the market and a solid investment. I have had the same Ranco for over 10 YEARS with no issues.

 

[55NEVER]

Look at Bulk reef supply, they have a lot of solid options to help make an informed decision.

 

[azreef729]

If I were to go with two smaller ones, what would be a suitable wattage for each? My house stays at 70-78 year round so I don’t know if that makes a difference or not.

 

[55NEVER]

Where do you live? I would say a 200w and 100w should be sufficient. I only run 2-300w titanium heater in my tank and it's over 300+ gallons with no issues in NC.

 

[azreef729]

Where do you live? I would say a 200w and 100w should be sufficient. I only run 2-300w titanium heater in my tank and it's over 300+ gallons with no issues in NC.

I’m in Arizona. So really there’s only two days out of the year it will be needed. Haha

 

[55NEVER]

Gotcha, doesn't sound like it will run much in AZ at all but better safe than sorry in my opinion.

 

[Naso180!]

Ive used Finnex for several years now without issue. Thats the brand my LFS has. Heaters are very reliable as well.

 

[Idech]

Inkbird with 2 Eheim heaters for redundancy.