How to Read an Aquarium Stick on a Temperature Gauge

If you keep tropical fish it is important to have a good heater in your aquarium. It is just as important to have an accurate aquarium thermometer, since tropical fish need a very specific temperature range to thrive and do their best. A stick-on thermometer is one of the best and easiest tools to use to keep track of the temperature in your tank.

Things You'll Need

  • Aquarium
  • Stick-on thermometer
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Instructions

    • 1

      Find a suitable spot for your stick-on thermometer. The thermometer should be placed in a spot that is easy to see, without interfering with the appearance of the tank. Placing the thermometer on the side of the tank instead of the front is a good way to balance utility and appearance.

    • 2

      Peel the backing off the stick-on thermometer and apply it to the glass. Be sure that the thermometer lies flat against the glass by running your finger down from the top to the bottom to remove any air bubbles. Trapped air bubbles underneath the thermometer can cause inaccurate readings.

    • 3

      Allow the thermometer to remain on the tank for at least an hour before attempting to read it. It will take the thermometer a bit of time to get up to temperature.

    • 4

      Look straight at the thermometer and locate the number that is lit up. Stick-on thermometers are designed so that the current temperature is illuminated, while the other numbers on the unit are not.

    • 5

      Check the temperature of your tank often. If you notice a sudden drop--or a sudden spike--in temperature, adjust the heater in your tank and check the thermometer again.