2 Racks, 1 Helix? Help please.

[Jared]

I have 2 racks from RBI..

The 32qt here:

http://www.reptilebasics.com/images/T/t-16197-14.jpeg

and the 12.2 qt here:

http://www.reptilebasics.com/images/P/swide_lg.jpg

Both use Belly heat, I have 1 Helix DBS1000 hooked up to them both.
With the Helix set at 101, the temps are perfect in the 12.2qt rack... BUT the temps in the 32qt rack are about 5 degrees low.

The temp of the actual heat tape in both racks is 101, but it just doesn't increase the temps enough in the 32qt tubs.

Any suggestions or info on what I can/should do?

Thanks!

[cbentley]

I would say to get another thermostat because the Helix isn't made to control two different racks.

[likebull1]

Or you can get rid of the helix and buy a herpstatII or herpstat pro. they are the best in my opinion and if you get more racks in the future you will be ready.

[West Coast Jungle]

One t-stat is fine if both racks have the exact same heating elements. For example if the both have 3" flexwatt that is 16" long. Now if one has a longer or wider heat element they will not be the same. Sounds like each rack has different size heat strips so the will heat up different. Now temps can vary in the same rack so thats not so uncommon.

What are you using to measure temps?

[J.Vandegrift]

You shouldn't use the same tstat unless the racks are identical. I think you are going to have to end up buying another tstat if you want your temps perfect in both. If you can afford it, the herpstat pro is amazing and it will cover you for when you expand down the road.

[Jared]

Or you can get rid of the helix and buy a herpstatII or herpstat pro. they are the best in my opinion and if you get more racks in the future you will be ready.

Great point!

Where is the best place to purchase a Herpstat Pro??

Thanks again!

[Jared]

One t-stat is fine if both racks have the exact same heating elements. For example if the both have 3" flexwatt that is 16" long. Now if one has a longer or wider heat element they will not be the same. Sounds like each rack has different size heat strips so the will heat up different. Now temps can vary in the same rack so thats not so uncommon.

What are you using to measure temps?

The heat tape is the same, just 2 tubs on the strip in the 12.2qt rack, and 1 tub in the 32qt rack.. same size heat tape though, if that matters.

I'm using a temp gun.

[Royal Morphz]

Great point!

Where is the best place to purchase a Herpstat Pro??

Thanks again!

her is the best place
http://spyderrobotics.com/

[likebull1]

Great point!

Where is the best place to purchase a Herpstat Pro??

Thanks again!

Ask and you shall receive:
http://spyderrobotics.com/products/herpstatpro.html

[twh]

i can offer some ideas starting with the lease expensive:

1) put the cooler rack on top of the other if they fit.

2) insulate the rack with the lower temps,i would try just the back at first then the wrap the whole rack if that doesn't work.reflexticx (sp?) works well,bubble wrap with silver covering.

3) try the herpstat ll ,this will work perfectly.hope this helps.