Heater for 3 Gallon?

I have a 50 watt heater and I wanted to know if that was overkill for a upcoming 3 gallon? If so, then what do you recommend?

Most of the heaters I've seen for tanks this small I really don't think will work because they're nonadjustable. I need to get temperatures of over 80 F.

 

I've used this 25watt heater before in a 2.5gallon and was able to keep it at around 80 on the lowest setting.

 

I've used that theo on a 5 gallon. Mine ran way hot and burned out after about 6 months. I had it set as low as it could possibly go and was still heating to low 80's

If you've got a good quality 50 watt, you should be fine.

 

Ive actually been looking at heaters and could only find a 50 watt...so I'm guessing that is what u would have to use... I'm scared about how much electricity that is gonna sap

 

Heaters really don't use much power. They aren't running all the time, just maintaining a temperature.

 

Heaters really don't use much power. They aren't running all the time, just maintaining a temperature.

Ooo that's good to know... if my betta leans against the heater will he get burned? ( I'm sorry if that's a silly question... I'm trying to do my research for winter when I need one)

 

The one I have is a Hydor as well. I've heard mostly positive things about them. I'm surprised yours was a bad experience, Cichlidnut.

I suppose I'll use the one I have. I'm just worried that 3 gallon might be too little water for it and overheat, but perhaps it'll only make the job easier for it.

 

If the thermometer is good, it shouldn't matter if the tank is a little small. I would figure out the temps in the tank before stocking it.

 

Try this one possibly? I use it on a 5 gallon and it does great. Cant even tell its in there if you hide it under the substrate.

Not a 100% sure on the temp though.

 

That one's nonadjustable too, Sneaky.

Oh, this will be a dirty planted tank, Cichlid, but I don't intend on stocking it until the plants have grown in. I can test my heater and see if it's compatible then.

 

I bought this one on Amazon as I needed a less expensive one for my 2.5 gal hospital/QT tank


The reviews are not that great, but works fine for me. One of the major issues is no temp markings on the control knob, Also, as said in the reviews, the temp control knob very sensitive, but if you get the hang of it it works well. For the first time Just keep a good thermometer with this, turn the control knob just slowly every hr or so until the temp is reached. After that it hold steady. Good product with some deficiencies, but can't complain for the price. Hope that helps.