Quote Originally Posted by Chuck
It carries a level of fire risk as if it gets to hot it can start a fire so you have to be careful with it. hope that helps.

Chuck
And to note, there's the same risk with even commercially made under tank heaters, which is another reason that all UTH's should be controlled by a quality thermostat.

I believe some have measure temps on flexwatt (heat tape) not controlled by a thermostat to heat to 140 degrees (someone correct me if I have that number incorrect - but it's high enough to burn your snake).

Always be sure to control ANY UTH with a quality thermostat.