Thermostat and Flexwatt questions

I am looking at setting up a new rack. I have never used a rack system before.

I am looking at using 4" Flexwatt and an Alife Reptile Electronic Temperature Controller (Beanfarm.com ).

This will be for a 3 or 4 bin rack. One rack will house bulls and pines. Another will house ball pythons.

Any experiences with this thermostat and / or 4" Flexwatt?

Thanks!

Dean:

I personally wouldn't reccomend the Alife based upon what I have read.

I highly reccomend the Spyder Robotics Herpstat line, I also use Ranco thermostats.

The big difference between the two is that the Herpstat t-stats are proportional while the Ranco is on/off. The Ranco also offers more capacity in terms of wattage, but for your application wattage isn't a huge issue.

I use my Ranco to control a large space heater that heats my herp room.

Are you using a thermostat for each rack?

Yes, I do plan to have a thermostat for each rack. If I understand correctly, the thermostat can only be set to one temp or range. That is one of the reasons for multiple racks.

Originally Posted by starwarsdad

Yes, I do plan to have a thermostat for each rack. If I understand correctly, the thermostat can only be set to one temp or range. That is one of the reasons for multiple racks.

There are thermostats available that provide for controlling multiple zones.

I use a Habitat Control System 4 zone controller (purchased before the Herpstat Pro was available) and also have a Herpstat II which controls two zones.

As far as budget goes a couple of Rancos or Johnson Controls would be your most cost effective in terms of the thermostats alone, but depending upon the cost of the racks that you are using a multiple zone thermostat may deliver the best value.

Do you have part numbers for the Ranco's and Johnson Controls???

Thanks!

Originally Posted by starwarsdad

Do you have part numbers for the Ranco's and Johnson Controls???

Thanks!

Ranco - ETC 111000
Johnson - A419

Originally Posted by DThomas

Ranco - ETC 111000
Johnson - A419

Dean:

I don't believe the Bean Farm carries Ranco or Johnson.

Most reptile-related re-sellers will offer these either pre-wired or "raw".

I know the following all carry Ranco and Johnson Controls:


http://www.reptilebasics.com/store/home.php?cat=250 (Reptile Basics)

http://www.mgreptiles.com/thermomain.html (MG Reptiles)

http://www.dxreptiles.com/products.php (D&X Reptiles)

I've done business with both Reptile Basics and MG Reptiles and would reccomend either. That said I wouldn't hesitate to do business with Dennis.

Thank you both!

I appreciate the help.