in an aquarium heater...is there supposed to be visible heat waves coming from the heater?

Answer 1

I have seen that before when the heater has been on for a while and is quite hot and also sitting in an area of the tank with fairly low water flow. It won't hurt anything as the fish usually learn to stay away from it.

MM

Answer 2

I've never seen that before...how high do you have it turned up? New or old heater? Are their fish in the tank? Tempature remaining stable? If the fish are alive, and the tempature is remaining stable I would say its not too serious...if its an older heater and its never done this before I'd say replace it...if its a new heater I would almost say for your safety and the fishs safety you may want to remove it from the tank and test it in a controlled environment like a large pot or something...if it manages to do what its supposed to without causing any harm I'd say its normal...or you are hallucinating...

EDIT: If you test it...try to use some sort of glass or ceramic container rather than a metal pot...something that wont transfer heat as easily...

Or...also again if its new...if you want bring the heater back to the store and say its defective.

Answer 3

No. Not unless there is a huge temperature difference (like, the water is 35 F, and the heater is 90 F).

If the room temperature is 70 F, and water heater is set at something like 78 F, you should not see heat on much and no water distortions.

Answer 4

Only when the heater is changing temperature. My heater does not show a light unless i change the nob to a different temperature.

2N!$H

Answer 5

I think there is something wrong with the heater. I would take it out. Examine it for cracks and damage. Let it cool before removing it.

Answer 6

Only if your doing a water change should you really be able to see the lines but even at that you should try adding water that is the same tamp. or a little highger then the tanks water temp.

Answer 7

no

Answer 8

no