Something I've been wondering...

(Disclaimer:

I have never used a hot rock. I am not inclined at all to use hot rocks. I am simply curious, and this is something I've been turning over in my head for a ridiculously long time.)

Okay, question time. Why couldn't someone use a thermostat with a hot rock? Has anyone ever actually tried to regulate one? Of course everyone says, "Throw them away, they're from the devil!!" and I have seen how incredibly hot they get. But why couldn't they be regulated like any other heat source? I know probe placement would be tricky, but you could still hot-glue the probe securely. Or just use a rheostat.

Discuss!

Sure you could hook a thermostat up to a hot rock, I wouldn't suggest using a cheap one or a rheostat with one, but something like a herpstat I would consider safe.

The issue is that they still aren't a good heat source. It is a very localized heat, and simply put there are much better options available to the hobby.

I would think that as you stated that the probe would be hard to place. My concern mostly stems from the fact that the snake/reptile would have direct contact with the heating element and if it was burned it would be worse. At least glass or a tub and substrate buffer it a bit.

That is just my thoughts on it. I've never used a heat rock or know anyone who has. However just like everyone I have heard the horror stories. To me it's just not worth the risk.

There was one manufacturer making a heat rock that was regulated and engineered to only fail in the "off" position.
Crappy manufacture of pretty much every other single heat rock drove the final nail in the heat rock coffin.
Getting a safe one or modifying one is too much headache and, too expensive for any benefit you get.

And, really I think a sterilize actual rock under a regulated CHE or RHP would do exactly the same thing as a heat rock only better.

I have always wondered this same thing...thanks so much for the insight :)