On/off thermostats burn through light bulbs like crazy. When I had one hooked up to my Ranco, the bulb would last maybe 2-3 months. The light flicking on/off was never really a problem for me besides the fact that I had to replace bulbs so often. I have never used a CHE so I am not sure if the on/off would shorten its life....after all they can last 2 years regularly. I would give Matt an email and ask him if an on/off thermostat would shorten the life of a CHE attached to it. If it does not, I would definately go with the CHE...it will save you money in the long run.