Which is the best thermostat?

[avd88]

I am thinking of getting ranco thermostats, but i heard Helix are also very good, any opinions, or suggestions.

[daniel1983]

It really depends on what you are looking for, how much you are willing to spend, and the use. Here is a good comparison chart (and great site to purchase thermostats from): http://www.mgreptiles.com/THERMOCOMPARE.html

What are you planning on running off of the thermostat?

[kavmon]

for a rack system i'd go with helix. for a single cage/tank a ranco is fine, i use them for my chondro.


vaughn

[Adam_Wysocki]

I've been using Helix for almost 10 years and have NEVER had a problem with a single unit ... can't say the same for other brands of thermostats that I have tried.

IMO, Helix is really the best choice ... most of the top ball python breeders are using them for a reason.

-adam

[jglass38]

I'd vote for Helix also, all though I love my Herpstats. Hey Adam, do the Freedom Breeders come with a Helix?

[justcage]

FB come with a ranco.. I would not use a Helix stat, I prefer the herpstats...
Helix 129.99
Herpstat 108.99
Honestly if you just need somethng to run a rack or cage then the Johnson Controls, they are one of the best thermostats out there.. The company was named one of 50 best manufacturing companies this year..

[Adam_Wysocki]

I'd vote for Helix also, all though I love my Herpstats. Hey Adam, do the Freedom Breeders come with a Helix?

FB's come with Rancos. The profit margins for resellers are 2 - 3 times higher on Ranocs and Johnsons than Helix's so it makes sense that FB would pick the cheapest.

The good news is that if you tell Jesse at FB that you're going to be using a helix, he'll keep the Ranco and credit you for it. I usually have him throw in an extra 3" heat panel for the bottom level and a 48" power strip to strap to the back of the rack vertically and plug each level into.

-adam

[daniel1983]

I usually have him throw in an extra 3" heat panel for the bottom level and a 48" power strip to strap to the back of the rack vertically and plug each level into.

Why an extra heat panel for the bottom level? Because it is near the cold floor and you need to keep temps up?

[Adam_Wysocki]

Why an extra heat panel for the bottom level? Because it is near the cold floor and you need to keep temps up?

Yes sir. I also attach some 1/2" rigid insulation to the bottom of the lowest level. Keeps the temps within 1 degree between the top box and the bottom box.

I wish I could say I thought of it, but I've gotta give Ralph and Pete credit for that one.

-adam

[daniel1983]

ha ha....good idea...I might need to do something like that for the new rack....just sent Matt an email to see if I can send him more money