SICCE Scuba Preset 300W Aquarium Heater – 65 to 90 Gallons
The SICCE Scuba Preset 300W Aquarium Heater is a fully submersible electronic heater designed to maintain a stable temperature in large freshwater and saltwater aquariums. Its factory-preset thermostat maintains approximately 77°F, or 25°C, without requiring manual temperature adjustment.
SICCE rates the 300-watt model for aquariums between approximately 65 and 90 US gallons. It is a convenient option for tropical community tanks, planted aquariums, marine systems, quarantine setups, and other aquariums whose inhabitants are suited to a temperature near 77°F.
The Scuba Preset features high-thermal-density, shatter-resistant glass, an electronic thermostat, thermal safety shutoff, a visible ON/OFF indicator light, and strong suction cups for secure installation. Its slim design helps reduce visual impact inside the aquarium while providing dependable everyday temperature control.
Key Features
- Preset to 77°F: Factory set to approximately 77°F, or 25°C
- 300-Watt Heating Output: Designed for large aquariums between approximately 65 and 90 gallons
- Electronic Thermostat: Automatically cycles the heater on and off to maintain the preset temperature
- Fully Submersible: Designed to operate completely underwater
- Shatter-Resistant Glass: High-thermal-density glass construction provides durability and efficient heat transfer
- Thermal Safety Shutoff: Built-in protection helps reduce the risk of overheating
- ON/OFF Indicator Light: Shows when the heating element is operating
- Strong Suction Cups: Help keep the heater securely positioned inside the aquarium
- Freshwater and Marine Use: Suitable for a variety of aquarium environments
- Slim Profile: Designed to minimize visual impact inside the tank
Product Information
- Brand: SICCE
- Product: Scuba Preset Aquarium Heater
- Model: Scuba Preset 300
- Power: 300 watts
- Recommended Aquarium Capacity: 65–90 US gallons
- Metric Aquarium Capacity: 250–350 liters
- Preset Temperature: 77°F / 25°C
- Temperature Tolerance: Approximately ±2°F / ±1°C
- Temperature Adjustment: Non-adjustable
- Construction: High-thermal-density, shatter-resistant glass
- Thermostat: Electronic
- Indicator: ON/OFF heating light
- Safety Feature: Thermal safety shutoff
- Cable Length: Approximately 6 feet
- Installation: Fully submersible with suction-cup mounting
- Aquarium Compatibility: Freshwater and saltwater
Best Used For
- Large aquariums between approximately 65 and 90 gallons
- 75-gallon tropical community aquariums
- Large planted aquariums
- Freshwater cichlid aquariums when 77°F is appropriate
- Large discus or angelfish systems only when the preset temperature meets their needs
- Marine fish aquariums
- Large quarantine or holding systems
- Aquariums where a simple preset heater is preferred
Preset Temperature
The SICCE Scuba Preset 300W is factory set to approximately 77°F, or 25°C. SICCE lists a normal operating tolerance of approximately ±2°F, or ±1°C.
The actual temperature may therefore cycle slightly above or below 77°F during normal operation. Room temperature, water circulation, aquarium volume, lid coverage, equipment placement, and thermometer accuracy may also affect the measured temperature.
This heater is not adjustable. Confirm that approximately 77°F is appropriate for every fish, shrimp, plant, coral, or invertebrate in the aquarium before selecting this model.
Recommended Aquarium Size
SICCE rates the Scuba Preset 300W for aquariums between approximately 65 and 90 US gallons, equivalent to approximately 250–350 liters.
The original estimate of 79 gallons falls within this range, but it understates the manufacturer’s maximum published capacity.
Heater sizing depends on more than aquarium volume. Performance may also be affected by:
- The difference between room temperature and the desired aquarium temperature
- Whether the aquarium has a lid or open top
- Water circulation and filter placement
- Drafts, exterior walls, and nearby windows
- Aquarium shape and exposed surface area
- Water volume displaced by substrate, rock, and decorations
- Whether a sump is included in the total system volume
A 300W heater may adequately heat a covered 90-gallon aquarium in a warm room but may struggle in a similarly sized open-top aquarium located in a cold area.
SICCE Scuba Preset Heater Sizing Guide
- 50W: 10–15 US gallons
- 100W: 20–35 US gallons
- 150W: 31–45 US gallons
- 200W: 40–60 US gallons
- 250W: 53–75 US gallons
- 300W: 65–90 US gallons
These are SICCE’s published capacity ranges. Choose the heater size according to the aquarium’s actual conditions rather than relying solely on a general watts-per-gallon rule.
Installation Instructions
- Inspect the heater, glass body, cord, plug, mounting bracket, and suction cups before installation.
- Do not use the heater if the glass, cord, plug, or housing appears damaged.
- Attach the supplied suction cups securely.
- Install the heater fully underwater in the aquarium.
- Position it near steady water circulation from a filter return or circulation pump.
- Allow the heater to remain submerged and unplugged for approximately 15 minutes before connecting power.
- Create a drip loop in the power cord below the electrical outlet.
- Plug the heater into a properly protected outlet.
- Monitor the aquarium with a separate thermometer.
Always review the included SICCE instructions before installation and use.
Best Heater Placement
Position the heater in an area with consistent water movement so warmed water is distributed throughout the aquarium. Placement near a filter outlet, canister-filter return, internal pump, or circulation pump can help reduce temperature differences between areas of a large tank.
Avoid placing the heater in a stagnant corner or behind dense decorations that prevent water from flowing around the glass body.
Do not bury the heater in substrate or allow it to rest directly against rock, driftwood, decorations, or the aquarium bottom.
Horizontal or Vertical Installation
The Scuba Preset may be positioned according to the aquarium layout and the manufacturer’s instructions, provided the heater remains fully submerged and water can circulate freely around it.
A horizontal or slightly angled position low in the aquarium may help distribute heat as warmer water rises. Vertical placement may be more convenient in narrow spaces or near a filter intake or return.
Secure both suction cups firmly and inspect them regularly to ensure the heater has not detached from the aquarium wall.
Using a Separate Thermometer
Always pair the heater with a separate aquarium thermometer. A preset thermostat controls the heater, but an independent thermometer confirms the actual water temperature.
Place the thermometer away from the heater so it measures the general aquarium temperature rather than the warmer water immediately surrounding the heating element.
In large aquariums, checking temperature at opposite ends of the tank can help identify insufficient circulation or temperature differences.
ON/OFF Indicator Light
The indicator light shows when the heating element is operating. It will normally turn on when additional heat is needed and switch off when the electronic thermostat reaches the preset temperature.
Normal cycling is expected. The light does not need to stay illuminated continuously for the aquarium to remain warm.
If the light remains on continuously while the aquarium stays below the expected range, the room may be too cold, circulation may be insufficient, or the heater may be undersized for the total system volume.
Thermal Safety Shutoff
The Scuba Preset includes thermal safety protection designed to reduce the risk of overheating.
This feature does not replace proper installation and handling. Always operate the heater fully submerged, maintain adequate water circulation, and unplug it before exposing it to air.
No safety system makes an aquarium heater completely fail-proof. Continue checking temperature regularly with an independent thermometer.
Water-Change Safety
Unplug the heater before draining aquarium water. Even a fully submersible heater can overheat or become damaged if it remains powered while exposed to air.
Allow the heater to cool while it is still underwater before removing it or lowering the water below its position.
After refilling the aquarium, confirm that the heater is fully submerged and allow it to acclimate for approximately 15 minutes before reconnecting power.
Freshwater Aquarium Use
The Scuba Preset may be used in freshwater tropical community aquariums, planted systems, cichlid tanks, quarantine setups, and other compatible freshwater environments.
The heater does not regulate pH, GH, KH, ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, or other water parameters. Continue regular testing and aquarium maintenance.
Saltwater Aquarium Use
The heater may be used in appropriately sized saltwater and marine aquariums when approximately 77°F is suitable for the livestock.
Regularly inspect the heater, suction cups, cord, and mounting hardware for salt or mineral buildup. Always disconnect power before cleaning or handling the unit.
Marine aquarium temperature requirements vary by species. Confirm that the preset range is appropriate for the fish, coral, and invertebrates being maintained.
Use in Planted Aquariums
The Scuba Preset 300W may be used in large planted aquariums when approximately 77°F is suitable for the plants and livestock.
Place the heater where dense plant growth will not block water circulation or prevent routine inspection.
The heater provides temperature control only and does not supply lighting, carbon dioxide, fertilizer, or plant nutrients.
Use with Shrimp
The heater may be used in large shrimp or mixed-community aquariums when the shrimp species is compatible with approximately 77°F.
Some Neocaridina may tolerate this temperature, while many Caridina and cool-water shrimp may do better at lower temperatures. Warmer water also contains less dissolved oxygen.
Research the requirements of the specific shrimp species and maintain adequate aeration and circulation.
Use in Cichlid Aquariums
The 300W Scuba Preset may be suitable for many African, Central American, and South American cichlid systems within the rated aquarium size, provided approximately 77°F matches the species’ needs.
Some cichlids require warmer or cooler water, especially during breeding or treatment. Select an adjustable heater when a different temperature must be maintained.
Use in Quarantine or Holding Systems
The heater may be used in large quarantine, observation, retail, or temporary holding systems when 77°F is suitable for the fish being housed.
Because it is not adjustable, it may not be appropriate for treatment protocols requiring a specific elevated or reduced temperature.
Disinfect equipment carefully between uses and inspect the glass and cord before reinstalling the heater.
One Large Heater vs. Two Smaller Heaters
For some large aquariums, using two smaller heaters may provide more even heat distribution and limited redundancy if one heater stops working.
For example, a system that requires approximately 300 watts of heating may sometimes be operated with two appropriately sized heaters placed at opposite ends of the aquarium. The combined wattage must still be appropriate for the aquarium and room conditions.
Using two heaters does not eliminate the need for a thermometer, regular inspection, or safe electrical installation.
Preset vs. Adjustable Aquarium Heaters
- Preset Heater: Simple plug-and-play operation with no temperature dial
- Adjustable Heater: Allows the aquarium owner to select a species-specific or treatment-specific temperature
The Scuba Preset is a good choice when approximately 77°F is appropriate and simple operation is preferred.
Choose an adjustable model when keeping fish that require a different temperature, conditioning fish for breeding, or following a treatment protocol that requires precise temperature control.
Temperature Monitoring Tips
- Check the aquarium thermometer daily
- Place the thermometer away from the heater
- Check both ends of large aquariums
- Watch for seasonal changes in room temperature
- Maintain steady water circulation
- Inspect the heater after power outages
- Replace damaged or unreliable equipment immediately
- Consider a temperature alarm or controller for valuable livestock
Cleaning and Maintenance
- Unplug the heater.
- Allow it to cool while still submerged.
- Remove the heater carefully.
- Clean algae and mineral deposits with a soft cloth or sponge.
- Inspect the glass, cord, plug, suction cups, and mounting bracket.
- Rinse according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Reinstall the heater fully underwater.
- Allow it to acclimate before reconnecting power.
Do not use abrasive scrapers, harsh household cleaners, or chemicals that could damage the glass or contaminate the aquarium.
Electrical Safety
- Create a drip loop below the electrical outlet
- Use a GFCI-protected outlet whenever possible
- Keep the plug and electrical connection dry
- Do not handle the plug with wet hands
- Unplug aquarium equipment before placing hands in the water
- Do not use a heater with cracked glass or a damaged cord
- Never pull or carry the heater by its power cord
- Do not cut, splice, or attempt to repair the electrical cord
- Operate the heater only while properly submerged
Important Aquarium Heater Note
The SICCE Scuba Preset 300W is rated for aquariums between approximately 65 and 90 gallons, but actual heating performance depends on room conditions and total system volume.
The heater is preset to approximately 77°F with a stated tolerance of ±2°F and cannot be manually adjusted.
No aquarium heater should be considered completely fail-proof. Use a separate thermometer, inspect the heater regularly, and unplug it before water changes or removal.
Do not use this heater for livestock requiring a temperature substantially different from its preset operating range.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size aquarium is the SICCE Scuba Preset 300W designed for?
SICCE rates the 300W model for aquariums between approximately 65 and 90 US gallons.
Is it only rated for tanks up to 79 gallons?
No. SICCE’s current published range extends up to approximately 90 gallons, depending on aquarium and room conditions.
What temperature is it preset to?
It is factory preset to approximately 77°F, or 25°C.
How accurate is the preset thermostat?
SICCE lists a normal tolerance of approximately ±2°F, or ±1°C.
Can the temperature be adjusted?
No. This is a non-adjustable preset heater.
Is the glass shatterproof?
No glass heater should be described as completely shatterproof. SICCE describes it as high-thermal-density, shatter-resistant glass.
Does it have an electronic thermostat?
Yes. The heater automatically cycles on and off to maintain the preset temperature.
Does it have an indicator light?
Yes. The ON/OFF light shows when the heater is actively heating.
Does it include overheat protection?
Yes. SICCE lists a thermal safety shutoff as a feature.
Does the heater need to be fully submerged?
Yes. It is designed as a fully submersible aquarium heater.
Can it be mounted horizontally?
It may be positioned according to the manufacturer’s instructions as long as it remains fully submerged and water circulates freely around it.
Can it be used in freshwater aquariums?
Yes. It may be used in appropriate freshwater systems within its size and temperature range.
Can it be used in saltwater aquariums?
Yes. It may be used in appropriately sized marine systems when approximately 77°F is suitable for the livestock.
Is it suitable for planted tanks?
Yes, provided the preset temperature is suitable for the plants and animals.
Is it safe for shrimp?
It may be used with shrimp species that tolerate approximately 77°F. Some shrimp prefer cooler water.
Should I use a separate thermometer?
Yes. A separate thermometer is recommended with every aquarium heater.
Should the heater be unplugged during water changes?
Yes. Unplug it before lowering the water level, cleaning the aquarium, or removing the heater.
How long should it sit underwater before being plugged in?
Allow it to acclimate underwater for approximately 15 minutes and follow the included SICCE instructions.
How long is the power cable?
SICCE lists an approximately 6-foot cable for the Scuba Preset series.
Would two smaller heaters be better in a large aquarium?
Two properly sized heaters may provide more even heat distribution and some limited redundancy, but the correct arrangement depends on the aquarium’s volume, circulation, and room temperature.
Available at Tropical Treasures Wyo
The SICCE Scuba Preset 300W Aquarium Heater provides straightforward electronic temperature control for freshwater and saltwater aquariums between approximately 65 and 90 gallons. It is preset to 77°F and features shatter-resistant glass, an ON/OFF indicator light, thermal safety shutoff, and strong suction-cup mounting.
Visit Tropical Treasures Wyo in Cheyenne, Wyoming, to shop SICCE aquarium heaters, thermometers, temperature controllers, filters, circulation pumps, replacement parts, and aquarium temperature-control supplies.
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