Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Do i really need a rheostat?? because if I put enough lyers down will that be good?? how much does one cost ?? saturdays the big day)

Yes you need one. Without a rheostat the uth can get up to and over 100 degrees. A rheostat will cost you about $30.
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Josh
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You should get one for sure. I found for me that adding more and more layers of substrate was a pain, and didnt dissipate the heat enough to be effective.

I just bought a $10 light dimmer from Lowes and used a thermometer with a probe to find the right surface temp, and I havent had to mess with it yet.

I have a question for you. The thermometer is a great idea but if i'm using tile as a substrate (which all my tanks use now) will using one of those temp strips on it give me an accurate temperature? Or would you recommend something else?

Thanks
Red

I'm not sure if the temp strip would work or not. I tried that first, but I wasnt sure if my temps were accurate or not.

I went out and bought a cheap(like 10 bucks I think) digital thermometer from Wal-Mart that has a probe on it. I just kept the probe pressed down on the substrate with the edge of one of my hides until I was satisfied with the temp I saw

Thankyou Ya know, i have one like that and it totally slipped my mind that i could use that. This particular one is in use in my crested gecko tank. I don't know where it came from (found it amongst my ex's stuff) but its great so i'll have to find more

Thanks again.
Red

Mac, you can get away with adding more layers of paper towel for a while. In the long run you may want a reostat. You can usually get a zoo-med reostat for 15 to 20 dollars it has two outlets and a dial control. Good luck
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Even if your on the right track you will get run over if you just sit there