Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I purchased a Helix radiant-heat panel and installed it today. A few hours later it was reeking - similar to a melting plastic scent - though nothing was melting. Its anchored to the top left inset of a Vision 222. Is this a "new" aroma that occurs the first time they're heated up? Regardlese, I turned it off as these fumes could be toxic?? Anyone else experience this? Panel was set at 85F.

Bill

your enclosure may be too large for the panel or the heat sensor for the thermostat too far from the panel. The big ? is why you don't just call them at Helix and find out firsthand. They seem like very helpful people.
Customer Support: support@helixcontrols.com
Phone 760-726-4464

Thanks,

I did today and, as I suspected, theres a "breaking -in" period of 2-24 hrs. Evidently this was omitted when I bought it. The fiberglass cover has to be heated up and "set". I'm glad I came in last night as the fumes were overwhelming - obviously could have been seriously detrimental.

Bill

The odor that you smelt will cause "NO HARM". This same odor is emmitted from ProProducts radiant heat panels as well. As you stated, there is simply a "burn-in" period that lasts anywhere from 12-72 hours or so. But other than that...no problems.

Rich Culver