Kite, That's disappointing he did not e-mail you back. I was told to call him, but maybe the "catch" is you have to be buying something? I do not know, but I would love to be in the room when the two of you are talking as I think there would be a lot to learn.

I e-mailed Bob a bit ago and also did not get a return e-mail, so maybe the phone is the way to go.

I will continue to monitor my setup this summer when the AC gets involved. I've been more concerned about ambient room temps being cooler in the summer than the winter because of AC.

I think no matter what people decide on, the BIG safety factor is the thermostat. I just will not be without a Herpstat of some type. I have safety alarms in place, some night and day temp differentials set and really can't say enough about what a great tool a quality stat is.

Kat,
you should still be able to use a UTH with a plastic enclosure. MOST people do use that or Flexwatt.

If you want, there is a quality heat mat made by Kane that can be used in or out of the tank. Tom McCarthy of McCarthy Boas uses them in his home made custom cages. They are spendy.

Actually I believe they (Kane mats) are made in Kitedemon's beautiful Canada if I'm not mistaken. If they are anything like my Bryston audio equipment from Canada I'd give a 2 thumbs up LOL!

Hopefully you find something that works.

Good Luck!