Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hey there,

I'm going to hook up flexx watt under half of my tank. Tank is 1/2" plexi and it's on a hardwood stand. I'm placing between the stand and the tank, and I'm not sure if the flexx watt needs an airspace to be safe (fire hazard wise). It seems an airspace would make it much less effective, but I've seen posts where it says it's needed. Guidence would be appreciated. Curt

IMO, you need an air space between the wood and the heater. In other words, insulate the wood from the heater (air is an insulator.) Doing this does not reduce heat output to the tank above as long as the air isn't moving (like being next to an open window blowing cool air.)

You do NOT need to have an air space between the heater and the intended heat-conductive surface - i.e. the acrylic bottom of the tank.

Thanks,

How should I insulate between the stand and the flexwatt?

Thanks- Curt

If you are using a thermostat you will not need a gap..
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Thanks, I've never left a gap in the past, just haven't had 1/2" plexi on hardwood before. It seems there are two camps here with regards to needing an airspace. As someone else mentioned, the more you read on the subject the less clear it becomes!

Thanks for the info. Anyone run flexx watt on wood and plexi longterm and have an opinion?
Thanks,
Curt

You don't need a gap. I just don't like to heat wood, except composite woods that have no grain. And, I don't know whether you will use a thermostat or not. Therefore, a gap is often a good thing, but not an absolute necessity.

A better thing is proper usage of heating equipment so as to not damage the cage or overheat the animal. However you can do that is the right way. See? Simple.