I use bulbs, I go with a bit more wattage then I need and adjust them with a plug in dimmer switch. Not only can I control the temp, but get a very long life out of the bulbs. I use zoomed infrared bulbs. Got the dimmers from amazon. It’s old school, but it works like a charm. And you can definitely burn or overheat the animals if proper precautions aren’t adhered to. Best of luck.