Pest Strategies

Caring for your outdoor fish can be difficult when temperatures drop. Fortunately, pond heaters maintain a stable, comfortable environment for them. To help you find the best pond heater for your yard, Pest Strategies researched various products on Amazon. Discover our top recommendations below.

 

Buying Guide

Consider these variables to make the most informed pond heater purchase.

• Water capacity: Some pond heaters are made for small fish tanks or outdoor ponds, while others can reliably heat ponds the size of a small swimming pool. Look for a water capacity rating, which is usually measured in gallons, and match it to the size of your pond. 

• Temperature rating: Pond heaters are rated to a certain temperature. Depending on where you live, a colder temperature rating may be necessary to keep your pond from getting too cold. Many pond heaters feature a temperature rating down to 20 degrees Fahrenheit, though some go as low as -20 degrees Fahrenheit. 

• Type: There are two primary types of pond heaters. Most pond heaters are one or the other, but certain models use a removable float design, providing the user with both options. 

• Submersible: This type is best for those who don’t want to see the heater on the surface of their pond. Submersible heaters circulate water better than their floating counterparts, but you’ll need a mount or another way to hang them.

• Floating: These pond heaters are easier to install than submersible ones. While they’re typically more expensive to run, they withstand colder temperatures.

• Style: If you have a fish pond in your backyard, you’ve probably worked hard to curate a certain aesthetic. While necessary to keep your fish alive during the winter, pond heaters can be an eyesore. Choose a submersible pond heater or a floating pond heater that mimics the appearance of rocks or fish to ensure that it doesn’t detract from the beauty of your space. 

 

 

FAQs

• What’s the difference between a pond heater and a pond de-icer? 

De-icers are only designed to heat pond water closer to the surface. On the other hand, pond heaters heat and circulate all of the water. Heaters may be overkill for koi, goldfish, or other aquatic species that hibernate during the winter, which is why we included heater and de-icer options in this review. 

• Can I use a pond heater for a large fish tank? 

Certain pond heaters can be used to maintain a comfortable temperature in heavy-duty tanks that exceed 50–100 gallons. 

• Is it safe to install a pond heater on my own? 

Many pond heaters promise easy installation. However, combining water and electricity is a hazard. We recommend consulting a professional to ensure safe installation and efficient power usage. 

 

 

Pest Strategies provides reviews of select products that are top-selling on Amazon and/or popular in consumer searches. Our team evaluates the products based on industry research, consumer reviews, pricing data, and other objective criteria. Unless otherwise noted, these product reviews are intended to help inform buying decisions for non-professionals. Because pest control products can be dangerous to your family if mishandled, we always recommend consulting with an exterminator, even if just to ask for advice on how to apply pest control products yourself.