I use Vivarium electronics V200 or 300s on all of my racks/cages. I love these and have yet to have a problem. I do however back them up with a Ranco ETC-111000-000. This is set before the VE stat (therefore closer to the power outlet, and is set around 5 degrees high than the VEs. So if I am running a VE at 90oF< it is set to 95oF. Therefore, if the first fails, the second catches it, and visa-versa. Its better to shut down than fry.
Most people are happy to spend hundreds, or even thousands on snakes, but scrimp on the things that actually keep[ them alive. I'm sorry you had this happen. Be lucky that the heat tape did not cause the tubs to melt and ignite. That has been reported more times that I can recall, and the results are catastrophic (entire houses burning down).
Warren
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