flexwatt!

can i use a rheostat to control my flexwatt or does it have be a thermostat.

you can use a rheostat for a temporary fix till you save up for a thermostat. Flexwatt heats up fast and HOT. i tested my new ones today after wiring them and they hit 132oF. rheostat on them will be tricky but not impossible as long as room temps don't fluctuate a lot.

I have 2 tanks with flexwatt on rheostats, as long as you have stable temps in the house it will be fine, mine will fluctuate between 92-96, which is acceptable