Do heat mats need to be replaced eventually?

[redshepherd]

Just a quick question- do heat mats need to be replaced after a few years, like heat tape does?

How long do heat mats last?

And how long does heat tape last?

[voodoolamb]

IME heat mats do eventually wear out. Couldnt help you with how long they last as I just replace them when they need replacing.

[Stewart_Reptiles]

Anything is bound to wear out sooner or later which is why heat mat, heat tape, t-stat should be check closely at least once a year IMO as a precaution.

[redshepherd]

Do you think heat mats at least last longer than heat tape, or are they both about the same anyway?

[Neal]

Do you think heat mats at least last longer than heat tape, or are they both about the same anyway?

I wouldn't think one would last longer than the other. They both get warm/hot, and stay warm/hot so while they're going to wear out there isn't a definite time frame. I have some heat tape that is still being used today and it's from 2012/2013? I've had it go bad on me within a few weeks.

[redshepherd]

I wouldn't think one would last longer than the other. They both get warm/hot, and stay warm/hot so while they're going to wear out there isn't a definite time frame. I have some heat tape that is still being used today and it's from 2012/2013? I've had it go bad on me within a few weeks.

I see, I'll just wing it then. I might as well start using heat tape, since heat pads are so much pricier per area.