Definitely get the digital thermometers. If you are using a heat pad you need to make sure that it is in the middle of the tank so they both have a hot spot to sit. The best thing I would say is to get an under tank heater and a light dimmer switch from lowes or home depot. They make ones that you can plug a lamp into and then it has a slider switch to adjust the light. They have them for about $10. You plug the UTH into the dimmer and you can adjust the switch up and down and it will adjust the temp on the pad. This is what I use and it has been working fine until I get a thermostat. Just make sure you check it a couple times a day to make sure the temps are right.