Aquarium Heater Casing
The Outer Shell Of A Submersible Fish Heater
Casing of aquarium heaters perform two main functions. Firstly they protect the inner parts from the water and the fish from the inner parts. They are completely waterproof so that they can be submerged in the fish tank water. Secondly they conduct heat from the element into the water.
There are two types of materials commonly used for the casings on fish heaters; glass or stainless steel.
Glass allows a clear view of the inside but can break if mishandled. Depending on the manufacturer the glass used may be tempered or regular. Tempered glass allows the heater to withstand thermal shock better than regular glass. Care should always be taken to let the heater cool before removing it. If a hot heater is placed back in the water it is possible that the glass will shatter.
Stainless steel is more durable but obscures the view of the heater's core. These type of heaters are less widely available than glass cased heaters.
Sometimes a thick scale will accumulate on the heater case. This should be remover using steel wool. Be careful not to apply too much pressure to the glass s a breakage can result.
The following heaters are for sale currently on eBay.
