PurraLovesJazz
Poofy-Headed Snake-Addict
I have a zoo-med rheostat, and I'm wondering if that would be ok with flex watt heat tape, or if I should buy a real thermostat? any ideas or comments?
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rheostat vs. thermostat
- Thread starter PurraLovesJazz
- Start date
alan
Guest
I say thermostat.
If your room temp stays constant a rheostat might work for you. If the ambient temp changes you may need to change the setting. Another thing that can affect a rheostat is the available power, like if there is something else plugged into the same line or it's on a cheap extension cord.
A thermostat solves the problems, it monitors the temperature and and regulates the heat automatically to maintain the target temp.
I've never used flex-watt, I don't think it has different requirements than any other heaters and it should be compatible with a rheostat. If I'm wrong we'll soon know.
If your room temp stays constant a rheostat might work for you. If the ambient temp changes you may need to change the setting. Another thing that can affect a rheostat is the available power, like if there is something else plugged into the same line or it's on a cheap extension cord.
A thermostat solves the problems, it monitors the temperature and and regulates the heat automatically to maintain the target temp.
I've never used flex-watt, I don't think it has different requirements than any other heaters and it should be compatible with a rheostat. If I'm wrong we'll soon know.
Last edited:
PurraLovesJazz
Poofy-Headed Snake-Addict
I have the rheostat plugged into a power strip/surge protector. would that keep the power pretty constant?
alan
Guest
Any extra wire between the load(heater) and the power source(your wall outlet) adds resistance and limits power. If you use an extension cord it would be best to get a heavy duty one.
Even at that you may be able to regulate your heat with what you have. You just have to try your set up and see if it will work.
Even at that you may be able to regulate your heat with what you have. You just have to try your set up and see if it will work.