Controlling Temperature

I recently built a 3 tub rack for some of my snakes. In the past, I've used lamp dimmers to control my UTHs with good results. However, I've noticed with the rack system, when I remove the tubs, the temp kinda goes screwy since I removed what was holding the heat and it is difficult to adjust back on point. Are there any other options for a small setup like this? Anything I can procure locally? Of course there are the Herpstat/Helix proportional thermostats, but I don't really want to spend $100+ for such a small setup. Anything help/ideas would be greatly appreciated.

There are smaller thermostats available. I've seen some for as little as $30. I've not used them myself so I'm not sure what sort of quality comes in the package.

Google Product Search Results

Yeah I've seen those. Though with the Zoo-Med one I've seen quite a few negative reviews. I was hoping to find something I can pick up locally but looks like I may just end up ordering one of the on/off type t-stats out there.

Bkelm18 wrote:

Yeah I've seen those. Though with the Zoo-Med one I've seen quite a few negative reviews. I was hoping to find something I can pick up locally but looks like I may just end up ordering one of the on/off type t-stats out there.

Talk to the local shops and see if they can get it in for you. Might save some shipping expense that way.

Check into Ranco's or Johnson Controllers... Each can be had for under $80. They are not proportional, but instead just On/Off. There is no problem with On/Off IMO... I have my herpstat proportional set for on off and have had zero problems. Plus it helps the thermostat last longer

Good point. I got a pre-wired Ranco from www.reptilebasics.com for $80.

Do you plan on getting more reptiles int he future? if you plan on getting a larger setup just buy one of the big herpstats. It will do you for all your needs.

Ehatcher wrote:

Check into Ranco's or Johnson Controllers... Each can be had for under $80. They are not proportional, but instead just On/Off. There is no problem with On/Off IMO... I have my herpstat proportional set for on off and have had zero problems. Plus it helps the thermostat last longer

Yeah I've looked into those. I can get them fairly cheap(er) through work. That may be the route I end up going.

the anti-poon wrote:

Do you plan on getting more reptiles int he future? if you plan on getting a larger setup just buy one of the big herpstats. It will do you for all your needs.

Maybe in the distant future, but I'm absolutely out of room in my apartment for more snakes. The main reason I built the rack was so that I could have my coffee table and my dresser top back.