Lamp dimmer use

I've been reading through posts regarding some folks using a lamp dimmer to control their UTH devices and have a quick question. Do you basically just plug the UTH into the dimmer and the dimmer plugs into your power strip, wall outlet, etc... That simple right? The dimmer then controls how much power the UTH gets and of course how much heat is given off. Sometimes I just have to think out loud. :D Any lamp dimmers better than others???

Home Depot sells a lutron lamp dimmer that plugs into wall, then plug uth into it it has a slider control ond indicator light for about $10.00

Yes you can find some already wired that you jus plug http://www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?actio...-WH&lpage=none

Just keep in mind if the temps of your room are not stable and fluctuate a lot, you will need to constantly adjust the device.

So depending on the situation a thermostat my be a better choice.

Thanks for the information guys, we have a Home Depot right around the corner. Also, the room temps are pretty stable and I have a temp gun so I don't have a problem giving the dimmer a try. I just don't want to spend the money on the repti temp rheostat (I think it's called) and have it not work for me......

I use the $10 dollar one from Lowes and am quite happy. My apt temp does not fluctuate daily. florida is great for regulating temps. I read in a guide somewhere that you should find the best temp and mark that spot on the slider. I did that and it really makes it easy to adjust if i need to. The only thing that i found is that since the slider range is only about 2 1/2 inches, a minimal move can really swing the temps so get used to it before you put a snake on top.

i say go for it. it's a great budget alternative.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by DMTWI

Thanks for the information guys, we have a Home Depot right around the corner. Also, the room temps are pretty stable and I have a temp gun so I don't have a problem giving the dimmer a try. I just don't want to spend the money on the repti temp rheostat (I think it's called) and have it not work for me......

---

Actually, if you keep stable room temps, the Reptitemp 500R works just fine. I have had mine running for about 15 months now with NO problems at all...

Tried the Dimmer....

For me it did not give me enough control. Slightest movement on the dial makes DRASTIC temp changes!

Go to a hardware store and buy an incandescent light dimmer. You wire it yourself but they are around the $5 mark.
Get the knob type, it has a much greater range.
Then all you need is a short extension cord and some marrettes and you have yourself a rheostat.
-Steven

A dimmer is an alternative but not the best choice at all, I control all my heat sources with a thermostat. A proportional thermostat is the best way to control heat year round.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Inknsteel

Actually, if you keep stable room temps, the Reptitemp 500R works just fine. I have had mine running for about 15 months now with NO problems at all...

---

The 500R is an actual thermostat though, correct? The Zoo Med rheostat is the dimmer which is cheaper than the 500R, but not as inexpensive as a lamp dimmer. I may still just opt for the 500R if I think it will work for me, otherwise I'll move up the thermostat food chain and spend a little more. Buy once, cry once as they say..... :cool:
Thank for the input!