Undergravel Heater

[Sims]

Hi everyone,

Would like to ask if the undergravel heater is a must for planted tanks.

And also what help does it do? And any minus points using it?

Thanks hope to hear from you guys soon.

[tawauboy]

not really necessary.
if not wrong, it helps to circulate the nutrients in the substrate.

[Allen_1971]

One of the strongest proponents for the undergravel heater I know of is george booth. He's a supporter of dupla's optimum aquarium techniques which includes the undergravel heater.

Basically his experience is that for long term setups i.e over 5 years... the undergravel heater is a must as it helps maintain the fertility of the substrate... Short term setups in which you tear down and rescape every few years probably don't need it.

[David]

and prevents the gravel from turning anaerobic as well....optional equipment

[Allen_1971]

In short if you have the cash, there no harm in putting it in... if your on a budget, you can probably do without.