My wifes turtle; That my dumbass takes care of has now been with us for 8 yrs. Red eared slider that you'd get at the towel shops in Myrtle Beach. When Mrs. 80 has a few beers she lets it get some sunshine in the back yard. Last week it bit the dog. It has been through like 5 heaters. Be very careful when they start wackin' heaters. That tank will lite your azz up. Get an unbreakable one. I have one now. Its got a brick on top of it. Look at the bright side; They live to be 35-40 yrs. old. Good luck!!!!