New DIY rack!

[Lolo76]

I can't really claim I did this rack myself, since I recruited handy friends to do it for me... but I was the fore-woman on the job, LOL. Basically I copied the design of a pre-built rack I own (from Racks & Reptiles), but adjusted the shelf heights to accommodate lidless tubs - the other one requires lids, which is a real pain for cleaning/water. The thing I like best about the design, though, is how it's "convertible" for a variety of tub sizes. Each shelf can fit either 1 41qt Sterilite, 1 28qt & 1 15qt, or 3 15qts. You can also put 4-5 6qt shoebox tubs per shelf, but you'd have to leave the lid on those.

Here's a breakdown on what I paid...

Pre-cut melamine wood & screws from Home Depot: $80-ish
Flexwatt heat tape: $43 (6 x 3' strips of 3" tape) + $10 shipping
Flexwatt connection kits & service: $30
Thermostat: Free, since I'll be using the one from my incubator (originally $30 - ReptiTemp 500R)
Labor: A beer and a "thank you" hug.

Total cost = $163

Not too bad, considering I paid nearly $400 (including Flexwatt) for the one I copied... which came un-assembled without instructions, has one less shelf, and requires lidded tubs. I'm pretty happy with how this new one came out! There's a tiny bit more space between the tub & shelf than I wanted, but it should be fine - and I still have to add some plywood along the back. My friend's also going to come back with his "jig" (whatever that is), to make slits for the heat tape along the side. So, whaddya think?? I'm happy to share the dimensions & plans, if anyone wants to make one like it.