Tragic day for my snakes.

[tcutting]

I have the Zilla Thermostat and I'm confused as to how it didn't shut off? It has a safety feature built in that is supposed to trigger in this very circumstance.

The relay (electronic switch) that triggers your heat element either on or off (closing the normally open circuit) is just like this one here :https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...?ie=UTF8&psc=1

The issue with those type of relays, is that they are a mechanical device(moving parts). Inside the relay there is a magnet and wire coil that physically pulls a piece of metal down to complete the circuit, thus turning your heat element on. When desired temp is reached, it releases the metal arm inside the relay, thus turning it off.

The problem with mechanical relays, is that since it is a moving part, they wear out over time. When this happens, the relay is either always on(normally open side is closed) or always off(normally open side cannot close to complete the circuit).

In the case of what happened to me, mine failed and stayed on, even though the LED would turn on and off with temps. I even tested that after the fact to truly pin point the failure.
Not sure what safety feature they built in but it did not save me at all from what happened. Upon taking it apart i found no wiring or components that would have served such a purpose either.



additional information on relays http://www.explainthatstuff.com/howrelayswork.html https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kt-4jJvYvzI