Hey, I know there are afew *****stat threads already but I thought they were to focused. I'm still working on my setup and need some help.

I'm working with an adult (?) BP

Rheostats vs. Thermostats: Why do I hear horror stories about Rheostats? Whats the differance between the two?

Heat tape vs. heating pad: I'm using a 'human' heating pad right now about 4"x6" I put it under the glass tank and it covers about 1/3 or less of the space. Do I need to get a Rheo/Thermostat to regulate its temp? On its medium setting ive measured the temp to be about 90. Right now i'm more or less controlling the temp by adding or taking away substrate ontop of the heating pad.

Heat pad/tape vs. Heat lamp: I read that heatlamps suck out the humitity from the tank. Should this be a concern? Should i use only heatpads?

Also, i'm using a 50w heat bulb right now but the temp is abit low. I want to bump it up to a 100w. The lamp is about 1, 1/2 feet or so off the bottom of the tank but im going to get some branches for my snake to bask on.

Opinions? Would 50w be enough once i have an elevated branch?
The air temp of the tank is on the low side right now. and i need help!

Last thing. Wheres the best place to buy a thermostat. I don't want to spend anything over $100 but i don't want a piece of shhhht either. What the best most reliable brands and models to look for? Where is the cheapest place to find them online?

THanks