Instead of using a rheostat from pet stores for $20.00, go to Home Depot, etc and look for a lamp dimmer that comes with an electric cord. This is a finished slide unit where the UTH plug goes into the plug end of the dimmer at the wall outlet. No wiring - plug in & go. Cost is only $15.00 and it is rated for 300 watts!!! I have used one on my daughter's bedside lamp for well over two years now and it is working fine. RR