Do Fish Tanks Need a Lot of Electricity?

When considering purchasing an aquarium, one thing people may wonder is whether aquariums use a great deal of electricity. Since there are several components to proper aquarium care that utilize electricity, this is a valid concern. However, when broken down, it becomes clear that the electrical usage of an aquarium is relatively low. Here are a few saltwater and freshwater aquarium supplies to consider when it comes to how much electricity it takes to run an aquarium.

Filtration

One of the supplies that utilizes the most electricity in an aquarium is the filter. There are several different types of filters, such as canisters, internal varieties, and hang-over-the-side filters. Exactly how much electricity each filter uses depends on the type as well as the size of the aquarium and therefore the size of the filter that’s needed. However, no matter the size or type, filters need to run all the time to keep the aquarium clean and healthy. Running a filter 24/7 may seem like a great expense in electrical output, but most filters are very low wattage, so the actual electrical usage is small.

Heater

The heater must be on at all times to ensure the correct temperature is maintained, even in the summer because temperatures can swing with air conditioners and changes in weather. However, when the heating element itself isn’t actually on, the electrical output is zero. In addition, some aquariums, such as those that contain cold water fish, or aquariums kept in warm environments like the tropic, may not require a heater at all. But for the 95 percent of the rest of us, a heather is mandatory.

Lighting

Lights can sometimes be a bit confusing, depending on the type of aquarium you have (saltwater or planted freshwater) and/or its location in the home. Some aquarium inhabitants, such as certain coral or plant species, require specific lighting to remain healthy. Aquarium owners may also want to have tank lights on so they can better view the aquarium. However, lights only need to be kept on during the day—for perhaps 8 to 12 hours—so as not to disrupt natural day and night cycles. For this reason, and because aquariums kept in brightly lit areas require only minimal illumination, lighting is a small source of electrical output.

Pump

Air pumps are small motors that pump air and/or water through a tube into the aquarium to give the water a high oxygen level. Pumps are essential in almost all aquariums and must be run 24 hours a day. However, how much electricity the air pump puts out depends on the size of the aquarium and thus the size of the required pump. Air pumps are generally very low in wattage, so this will usually only be a small source of electrical use.

As you can see, the energy efficiency of aquarium pumps, lighting, and heaters have come a long way from just a few years ago, so go ahead and enjoy your aquarium without worry.

Though you shouldn’t be too concerned about a high electricity bill when maintaining an aquarium, you definitely should be concerned with purchasing only the highest quality supplies to keep the tank running smoothly. From aquarium controllers and monitors to LED lighting and filtration, Aquatic Warehouse has got you covered. Check out the wide array of products on our website, stop by our store in Kearny Mesa, or give us a call at 858-467-9297.