Switching to Flexwatt...Rheostat vs. Thermostat?? Some questions....

[BlissfulChaos]

Ok, I'm building an enclosure and I want to do this the right way. I will be using flexwatt and my question is, do I get a rheostat or thermostat to control it? I've never worked with Flexwatt before so it's a lil confusing...Also I'm making a double enclosure....Will I need 2 thermostats/rheostats? Is flexwatt sold at any hardware stores or do I have to buy online?? And one more question....I'm using PVC to build my enclosure...The flexwatt won't melt it will it, or should I Put something between the PVC and flexwatt?

[seeya205]

It is best to use a thermostat as it will keep the temps steady. The flexwatt will not melt pvc and you need to order it online!

[BlissfulChaos]

Awesome! Thank you!

[snake2615]

and you only need one thermostat

[Fallout32]

If you're using two different pieces of flexwatt for the double enclosure and they both need to be the same temp then you can just plug them into a multi-plug or a surge protector (or have them parallel wired) and then into the thermostat. But if both sides need to be different temps then you'll need two thermostats. Kaorte found a good inexpensive digital thermostat if you're not looking to spend $100 on one. here

[Lolo76]

I use both rheostats and thermostats with equal success, but my local climate is extremely constant (ranging from 50-60 all year). If you have a more variable climate, I would suggest a thermostat for full accuracy - they're better anyway, but I didn't want to buy four $150 thermostats when a $10 dimmer works fine here.

You can use one device for both racks, but I've noticed they work much harder that way... I have to keep my herpstat set at 97.5, which barely keeps the hot spots at 85-87 on the two racks it controls. As for buying the flexwatt, here's the place to do that: http://www.reptilebasics.com/flexwatt-heat-tape/ (you can even have it pre-wired for an extra $5 )

[Lolo76]

Kaorte found a good inexpensive digital thermostat if you're not looking to spend $100 on one. here

Good find! I might have to order one when my new rack is finished...

[Jeremy78]

Rheostat - a device that gives a certain amount of power to the flexwatt. For example if the heat mat puts out 115F at (just for example) 10 watts then the rheostat (dimmer) can be turned down to give 5 watts at say 85F.
($5-$25)

Thermostat (on/off) - this type uses a probe to measure temps. You set the thermostat to your temp then check with a infared temp gun and tween accordingly. It's called on off because it turns the power on and off to keep steady temps.
($25-$75)

Proportional thermostat- best one, keeps the power at a certain level to maintain a temperature within a certain tolerance. Usually the more expensive the tighter the tolerance.
($110-$500)

There's my list . They're in order of price from cheapest to more expensive.

[BlissfulChaos]

Cool! looks like I'll be investing in a thermostat here very soon! Just have to make my enclosure first lol

[mpkeelee]

i use a repti-temp 500 for my tubs now with a UTH, but im getting ready to build a rack so ill be switching to a herpstat proportional thermostat with the heat tape. the reptitemps have worked great for me so far, always stay from 90-94 but its time for an upgrade. the reptitemps go on and off and only cost about 25 bucks