I would use 6" heat tape on the 28qt rack, 11" or 12" would be ok but I personally wouldn't use them on this size rack.
Spyder robotics (herpstats) currently makes the best thermostats available (value for money and features/quality). While the helix use to be the king it is desperately in need of a redesign and really is overpriced for what it is now.
The herpstat 2 would be prefect for you as it is literally 2 thermostats in a single box. It would allow you to control both racks in a single unit. (and it's cheaper than buying 2 separate units)
If money is really an issue the best deal you can get on a thermostat in my opinion is the herpstat intro for $99 it is just as accurate and reliable as the other more expensive herpstats but some of the more complex features have been removed (like the ability to control misting systems)
Here is their product lineup with the features of each: http://spyderrobotics.com/home/products.html