Hi Ethan –



I figured I ought to weigh in on the pro-Big Apple side since I bought 15 of them last year. If you search either the old or new Kingsnake archives, you’ll find a ton of posts on proportional thermostats, mostly discussing Helix vs. Big Apple. Here’s one thread that covers some interesting details: forum.kingsnake.com/caging/messages/15978.html .



I knew I’d do okay with either product. After doing research like you’re doing, I think I was swayed by the fact that delivery seemed to be an issue with Helix every year; not so with Big Apple. So check that your vendor has what you want in stock! Didn’t you say in a previous post that you use Vision cages? I do, and the crappy mounting system (really cheap double sided tape) on either brand doesn’t adhere to the Vision plastic for long. After a few weeks, I’d find the thermostats on the floor. That was easily fixed by buying some better quality 3M double sided tape.



Just one other detail to consider: If you think you might have problems with visitors messing around with your temperature settings (young children, maybe?) – the Big Apple has a big, easily accessible dial on the front; the Helix basic has a tiny set screw requiring a jeweler’s-type screwdriver to change the temp settings. Someone posted a while back of a disaster he experienced in his collection when someone he was showing around fiddled with the dial of his thermostat and turned the heat way up. He didn’t realize what had happened until after he found his animals dead. Barring a disaster like that, I think you’ll be pleased with whichever one you choose.



-Joan

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