Temperature discrepancy/problem with probe??

Hey folks, has anyone run into this problem before?

Got two RBI racks running on a Herpstat 2, backed up on Hydrofarm t-stat. Probes correctly placed on heat tape, secured with electrical tape. Herpstat 2 says the temps are in low 90s as set, but temp gun reads 75-80 on warm side of tubs over heat tape where probes are set, and only a degree or two higher on the tape itself when tub is removed from rack.

I believe the temp gun b/c snakes feel cool to touch and temp gun reads appropriate surface temps on the other sides of the tub/other surfaces in rooms.

Any ideas? It seems to me the problem must be with the HS2 or the probes as opposed to the rack. The only recent change is that I used to use the HS2 on one rack and two freestanding tubs, and recently switched out the tubs to another t-stat and put the second rack on the HS2.

Thanks for your collective wisdom!

move the probe away from the heat a little at a time until the therm and temp gun read the same.


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Thanks, I'll try that. I also discovered that the probe to the backup t-stat had come out of the rack. I don't think that has anything to do with the problem, but it's good to have figured it out and replaced it.

Temp guns can give you funny readings when pointed at reflective surfaces like clear tubs and heat tape. This isn't always the case but could be part of your issue. Try placing a paper towel on the bottom of the tub and on top of the heat tape let them warm up for at least 30 minutes then check the temperature of the paper towel with the temp gun.

I always check the tub temp w/paper towels on it since that's what the snakes are on. I just tried moving the probe and will recheck the temp in a little while. Never knew that about reflective surfaces and gun readings, though, thanks!

You need to turn the thermostat up. Your thermostat is working just fine. Its measuring the temp at the very surface of the heat tape and adjusting appropriately. But your snakes arent laying directly on the tape, there is a tub and substrate in between then that will cause some heat to dissapate. Turn your stat up until you are getting a 90 deg hotspot with your gun.

I have always had to set the thermostat a bit higher than the actual temp I wanted, since the probe is outside the tub. It has been awhile, but I think I had mine set on 95.

My t stat is set on like 106 for my ball just to get a 90 reading with my gun. On like 101 for my corn to get an 85. I hate temps with a passion.

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If you're afraid your gun isn't working right. Try aiming it at ice water. +1 on the reflective surface thing. It's unfortunately true.

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Quote:

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Originally Posted by HeadSetJones

My t stat is set on like 106 for my ball just to get a 90 reading with my gun. On like 101 for my corn to get an 85. I hate temps with a passion.

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that is because your probe is too close to the heat. Back the probe away a little bit and you can adjust your thermostat so it reads the right temperature of the actual heat tape.

that's the whole purpose of having a thermostat.

you wouldn't mount your home thermostat right next to heating vent in the floor and then crank it up to 100 to make it 75 in your house would you?


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