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I apologize for asking a question that I am pretty sure has been asked before but I can never find anything using the search function so, here goes.

I have an electric oil filled radiator that I would like to hook up to a thermostat (there is one built into the unit but it is not very accurate for specific temps). Is one thermostat better than another for this? Can I use something like a Ranco or is there some other type that I need? The heater has three power settings with the max being 1500 watts. I am thinking that I don't need a proportional but would love other opinions. Thanks for the help.

Rob

I agree you do not need a proportional unit and would recommend a Johnson Control A419.

Bart

Is one thermostat better than another for this? Can I use something like a Ranco or is there some other type that I need?

Just make sure to get one rated for 1500 watts, even if you rarely run your heater at that level. In my opinion proportional is not necessary.

I believe it's either Ranco or Johnson Controls that makes several similar Tstats and not all of them have a 1500 watt rating. Stick with either of these brands and the 1500 watt rating and you'll be fine.

If you would like a Tstat that can be programmed for night time temperature drops and/or that can automatically switch to a 120V air conditioner there are one or two options. I can't recall them off the top of my head but let me know if you are interested and I'll see if I can find them.

A lot of people don't know such an option exists so they don't even consider it.
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Currently keeping:

6.10 Gonyosoma oxycephala (Javan, mixed colors)

1.1 Philodryas baroni

1.0 Rhodesian Ridgeback

Hi Chris,

Thanks for the info. Any info you could find on a t-stat with a programable night drop would be great. Thanks for your help.

Rob

>>Is one thermostat better than another for this? Can I use something like a Ranco or is there some other type that I need?
>>
>>Just make sure to get one rated for 1500 watts, even if you rarely run your heater at that level. In my opinion proportional is not necessary.
>>
>>I believe it's either Ranco or Johnson Controls that makes several similar Tstats and not all of them have a 1500 watt rating. Stick with either of these brands and the 1500 watt rating and you'll be fine.
>>
>>If you would like a Tstat that can be programmed for night time temperature drops and/or that can automatically switch to a 120V air conditioner there are one or two options. I can't recall them off the top of my head but let me know if you are interested and I'll see if I can find them.
>>
>>A lot of people don't know such an option exists so they don't even consider it.
>>-----
>>Currently keeping:
>>
>>6.10 Gonyosoma oxycephala (Javan, mixed colors)
>>
>>1.1 Philodryas baroni
>>
>>1.0 Rhodesian Ridgeback

Johnson Controls model A419. It handles 1500 watts and is available with the night time drop. Check the classifieds here at kingsnake.

Hope this helps.
Anthony Gold

I believe Green Air Products makes a Tstat that can handle both a heater and air conditioner as well as drop temperatures at night. The company site is down right now and a quick google search did not turn anything up right away.

Go to HerpSupplies.com and see if one of their products fits your needs.

If you don't need the ability to run AC then I believe a Ranco or Johnson Control with night time temp. drop is a better bet.

At least one of the Rancos can also run AC but you have to open up the unit and switch it manually. It's not a system which will switch back and forth between heating and cooling as needed. I believe one of the Green Air products does that.
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Currently keeping:

6.10 Gonyosoma oxycephala (Javan, mixed colors)

1.1 Philodryas baroni

1.0 Rhodesian Ridgeback