Thermostats?

I'm running two Helix DBS-1000 units on my display type case. I'm building a built in rack system with an incubator under a stair case that goes to the upstairs of the floor. I bought a Herpstat Pro to handle this as the herpstat pro has 4 in 1. My rack will have 3 different sized tubs, so that is 3 channels and I figure the 4th will go to my incubator. As a back up to the built in Thermostat.

I've been using the Johnsons since I started seriously collection and love them - they hold more wattage and work beautifully. On my incubator I use the Helix - but for racks you don't need the precision of a proportional (IMO overkill) - an on/off works just fine!

I mainly use HelixDBS1000 and HerpstatNDs, I haven't had any trouble with either of them, but the built in night drop and other extra features that come with the HerpstatNDs are beyond extra handy.

believe it or not, I have had good luck with my zoomed 500r's... I think that is what its called but I am not sure... price is between 30 and 40 bucks.

It is in fact a thermostat, but it does not have a digital temperature display, so you need a thermometer or heat gun to get it set right by turning a knob... but once it is set where I want it, it keeps my temperatures within one degree. I would love to have all helix thermostats... but that is not practicle for me. I have racks, and several tanks spread out through the house.... I can't afford several helixes!!!!

I will be using a herpstat PRO for my adult racks, and a ranco or a helix for my babys( haven't decided yet) and also a dual ranco for my incubator ran off of a genorator for power losses. :D

Just ordered a Ranco

One thing people don't usually think about when deciding between a proportional and non proportional thermostat is the effect on the heat device. A proportional thermostat also increases the longevity of resistive type heating devices like heat tape. In general they are also more energy efficient. One example is a friend of mine has a bunch of Freedom Breeder and similarly constructed racks, last year we took them all apart to move them and noticed that around 25% of the heat tape had burned through in the middle. All of these racks were on non proportional thermostat and I would guess that was the likely cause. The constant full on being in contact with the metal was probably too much. A proportional thermostat in a properly heated enclosure would end up regulating the power output below the full on state. Not saying non proportional thermostat don’t have their place, they make great backups since they use a relay instead of a triac you have an alternate style of power control. They are also good for room thermostats and high wattage heat devices. Using a relay they don’t build up the internal heat like proportional thermostats so they allow for higher wattage. Just a couple extra things to think about.

George

running a Helix on my lone BP, wouldn't hesitate to buy another one when i eventually get another snake

I ordered a Herpstat a few months ago and it's perfect! We even had some weird blackout power shut off for a few seconds last night and it didn't miss a beat. I definitely recommend one and I don't think I'll ever change that opinion! :)

ive had good luck with the cheap $30 a-life thermostats but i am in the process of replacing all with herpstat and a herpstat pro