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Spugy
Snake mite
Canada
24 Posts |
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Snakesitter
Rainbow Master
USA
2718 Posts |
 Posted - 19/09/2012 : 23:58:18
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I have no experience with any thermostats other than Ranco (moderately priced model) and Herpstats (top of the line models). The main two types are "on/off" (like the Ranco) and "proportional" (like the Herpstat). The former turns the heating element completely off when temps hit a certain level, and then back on once they fall below it. The latter reduces the power to the heating element when temps hit a certain level, and increases it again if the temps fall too low. Both types have their adherents.
Yes, you will need one controlled outlet per heating element.
If you use undercage heating options, the probe should be placed between the heating element and the viv bottom. You will then take temps on the inside of the viv just above the probe to "calibrate" the thermostat. You will often find the inside temp is several degrees below what the probe reads.
I monitor humidity, but do not automate its control (yet).
If you have any other questions, please let us know! |
Cliff Earle
Living Gems Reptiles
Premium Brazilian Rainbow Boas from a disease-tested facility
Website, Facebook |
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Spugy
Snake mite
Canada
24 Posts |
Posted - 30/11/2012 : 02:31:52
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Well I ended up getting some ZooMed Rheostats, which are essentially dimmers. Work brilliantly, though. Helps me regulate all my UTH and my reptiles seem much happier having the option of a fair amount of warmth. Also, been colder lately, so if the ambient temperature drops (as it has) I just turn up the dials.
Hygrometers are a whole other issue,though. What do people use? I have a $20 thermometer/hygrometer that seems accurate but the battery unity sits in the tank. Bad idea at 90% humidity, I would think. I think a probe is a much better idea. Affordability is a consideration as well. I asked the local breeder and he stated that he just used sphagnum moss. Not sure, being inexperienced, that I trust the humidity to be high enough.... what do the rest of you use? |
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Snakesitter
Rainbow Master
USA
2718 Posts |
Posted - 30/11/2012 : 21:01:33
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Nice. ;-)
I measure humidity using a probe attached to my computer. Not cheap, but accurate. You can get a relatively inexpensive digital combo thermometer/hygrometer on-line, a friend recommended them. Unfortunately I can't recall which brand...or friend! So long as you can see condensation on the hide walls, though, your moisture levels should be fine. |
Cliff Earle
Living Gems Reptiles
Premium Brazilian Rainbow Boas from a disease-tested facility
Website, Facebook |
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hygrometre and thermostat recommendations
