Reptile & Amphibian Forums

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

Alex,

even if it means that you have to wait on acquiring a snake or two I would make the effort to buy the best quality thermostat that you can. something under $50 will probably not cut it. it could mean the difference between safe temps for your snake or cooking them from overheating, to possibly a fire. heating equipment is one thing you do not want to take chances with, especially in your house. you can also check out ranco or big apple thermostats to see if they meet your needs.

daveb
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in the light, you will find the road...

Thanks Dave for your info. I'll check out the brands you mentioned.

Also, I agree with you fully that it is not worth it to risk the health of your animals to save a couple bucks. What I was mainly wondering is if there is any thermostat that has proven to be as safe and reliable, but perhaps not as sophisticated, as a Helix for under a hundred dollars. If the answer is simply that a Helix is substantially safer than any other thermostat on the markey period, than I am prepared to spend the money on one. I was just trying to find out if there was anything else out there that I haven't heard of.

Alex

You know, I do not know of any. I know that people with electrical skills (I am not one of them) have utilized dimmer switches and wired their own thermostats, etc., and the ability to do that would run less than $100.
good luck with your search.

daveb
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in the light, you will find the road...