Water Heater Protective Tub (For Aquaponics Sump)

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I have a thriving aquaponics system in my greenhouse, but I've encountered an issue - my tilapia and freshwater shrimp are susceptible to freezing temperatures in the sump tanks. To mitigate this problem, I've started using a common aquarium heater to keep the water above freezing. However, when the water recedes and leaves the heater uncovered, it can shatter glass or melt metal. To protect my heater, I created a protective heater tub that keeps it submerged even when the sump temporarily runs dry. The retained water also prevents overheating as long as any remote temperature sensor is also submerged in the tub. This setup helps to prevent freezing and reduces temperature shock when the pump turns back on. The heater compartment measures 14 inches long, providing ample space for my aquarium heater. To assemble the protective heater tub, I print two halves and stick them together with doublesided tape. Then, I bolster and waterproof the joint using hot-melt glue. Next, I fill the perimeter compartments with pea gravel to prevent flotation and movement. Once assembled, I lay the heater down in the tub and zip-tie its cables to the included eyelets to keep it in place. Finally, I place the tub in the sump and fill it with water, which will then be maintained by the sump as long as the tub doesn't float.