Yes, do a partial water change and feed normally before you leave. Aside from anything out of the ordinary, yes, he should be fine.

Thank you so much for responding! My filter does have a “low” setting, but that’s a good idea to position it behind the decor to slow the flow even more. I’ll keep researching the heaters and check out the Cobalt you’ve recommended. I’ve been leaning toward the ones that have an adjustable thermostat as well. I suppose I can test one out in a separate bowl just to make myself feel better before I put it into the tank. I appreciate your input!

Thanks for the feedback Ashley. Even with a filter, you should be doing a partial 20-25% water change once per week. Make sure you get a filter that has an adjustable flow to limit any strong current in the tank, or place a decoration right at the entry to slow its flow. In my personal opinion, yes heaters are worth the risk. While he’s fine now, over time the lower temperature can lead to a weakened immune system. I have never had a heater burst in all my years of caring for bettas, so sometimes I wonder if some of the reviews are from improper use. Don’t get me wrong, there are poor heaters on the market as well that are prone to failure like that, so stay away from those (like the heating pad). The best advice to keep from overheating your tank is to purchase a heater that has a built-in thermostat and shuts off once it reaches your desired temperature. Some come preset at 78 and you don’t have to do anything. Look up the Cobalt Aquatics Neotherm, it’s a very nice heater, or one similar.

While it’s not ideal, it’s temporary and better than receiving less care over those two weeks, so yes I’d recommend the 2-gallon bowl if it’s an option. Also, get some water test strips so she can maintain clean water during those two weeks and do regular water changes with conditioned water. Ammonia will build up quickly in a bowl.

Thanks, Bryan, yeah not sure I’m ready to drop the dollars on a home generator yet. If I had a fish room maybe. Take care.

That is definitely a concern, and there are backup generators you can run for the whole home or solar power. Obviously, these would need to be set up before you leave on vacation.