thermostat vs. rheostat

whats the difference? which is "better" or is it one of those comparing apples to oranges things??

I don't know about the thermostats, I don't have one, but I got a rheostat yesterday and so far I like it. I know it's not as temperature specific as a thermostat, but it did cool down my UTH and is keeping it there so far.

so they'll keep temps steady too? I thought they just turned the uth etc. down. I was wondering since all I can find around me are rheostats and the temps in my room jump around a lot so I wasn't sure if I could use one.
Thanks!

Well, like I said I've only had it since yesterday, so sofar I like it, but I'm not sure how steady they keep the temps, I'm still playing with mine. I would get an answer from someone who has had them for longer before deciding, b/c I'm still learning about them too ^_^

Yeah I'm still waiting for one of the BP vets to jump in here. I will hopefully be at an expo tomorrow so I'm looking for some advice on which to buy.

thermostats are the best! brands like ranco,johnson controls, helix and herpstat are the way to go!


a rheostat is basically a dimmer switch, temps will rise and fall with room temps and need adjusting often.

a thermostat like a helix is gold! just set it up and forget it.

imo, helix is the best, ranco is bit less expensive.

helix 130.00 ranco 70.00

vaughn

I've heard about people having really good results with t-stats that are around $30? Is this common or is this just lucky? The reason for me asking is I'm a bit strapped for cash right now and I don't want to make my future BP have to suffer for it.

I'm using the Zoomed reptitemp 500r models on my tank and they work well. They dont have a digital readout tho so you need to have some good probe thermometers. Once you get them dialed in its pretty much snap the cover on and dont worry about them. I have used them for about 3 months now.

you can find them online as low as 25 bucks i think, at petco they cost more.

I paid 30 or so for mine i think.

I'll prob just pick mine up at an expo tomorrow if I can. from what I hear those are the best places to pick stuff up

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Phreak

I'll prob just pick mine up at an expo tomorrow if I can. from what I hear those are the best places to pick stuff up

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most expos won't have the good brand thermostats.