Thank you to the guys who replied to my previous post about using lids in a rack. Your opinions are always helpful!
(I haven't been able to make a decision on which method is clearly better though, so clear opinions (i.e. "use lids because.../don't use lids because..." would still be much appreciated.

Anyway, me new questions are about heating.

1. Now I know most of you will tell me that a Helix is the best theromstat to go with, but I simply can't pay $130 on one at this point...so what is the best (most reliable, safe, and accurate) one that I can buy for preferably under $50?

2. From what I have researched, it seems that Flexwatt heat tape is the best way to heat a rack, but I have seen it used on the sides/backs of racks, and under the bins. It seems that underneath is a better idea, but I'm open to suggestions if anyone dissagrees.
My bigger question is how much tape I should use per bin (44" L x 19 3/4" W x 6 3/8" H).
Should I use 11" or 22" wide tape? (If I used 22", there would be 2" sticking out from under the bin.)
For whichever width you think I should use, should I do 1 or 2 ft. per bin? (I'm not farmiliar with how much the heat spreads from the tape.)
Also, do I need to put any covering, like aluminum, over the tape...or can the bin just sit directly on it?

Again, any other suggestions for a new rack builder would be great as well!!


Thanks so much,

Alex

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