Some questions...

[rafasani]

So I'm looking into getting my first leo, and I have some questions...

1 - I have an enclosure that is 40x40x40cm (40cm ~ 1' 3") is that enough space to keep one gecko?? Could I fit more than one in that space?

2 - The UTH I have avaliable here are exo terra's "heat wave vivarium heater" and "heat rainforest", what's the difference between them?? which would be best??

3 - Regarding temp control... I've never used an UTH before, how would I control the temp?? Is there a control for setting the potency or something like that?

 

[LizMarie]

I've used the Exo Terra Heat Wave Heater before and it was just fine, it can just get really hot! I'm talking about a 105F. There are two things that you can use to control the temperature a thermostat or a rhethostat (which is basically a light dimmer).

I own a rhethostat and it is SO annoying you constantly have to adjust it to get the right temperature. So I suggest you get a thermostat if possible because for the most part you can set it and forget it.

They say that a 10gallon tank is minimum size and that measures 20x10inches. But your's doesn't seem bad. But I doubt you'll be able to but more then one gecko in it.

 

[rafasani]

I thought about using a rheostat but was wondering the UTH might have one built in it...

I figured the enclosure was kinda small, I guess I'll get another one made then...

Thanks for the reply!

 

[nats]

Your encloser is fine for one leo.

I do not recommend the use of a rheostat to control the UTH unless your room temp NEVER fluctuates.
Rheostats just increas/decrease the voltage going into the UTH, it can not control the temp.
If your room temp is constant (day and night) than give it a try.
Monitor the temps regularly with a digital or (better still) laser thermometer.
Take your temp readings at floor level, as this is where your leos live.

The most effective (and safest for your leos health) is a good proportional thermostat. This type will be more accurate and greatly extend the life of your UTH, as it is not constantly turning it off and on.

 

[rafasani]

I found a thermosthat used for incubating bids, but it just turns the heat source on/off, can't seem to find a proporcional thermostat around here... How long would a UTH last if I use a simple on/off thermosthat??

 

[nats]

I found a thermosthat used for incubating bids, but it just turns the heat source on/off, can't seem to find a proporcional thermostat around here... How long would a UTH last if I use a simple on/off thermosthat??

Unknown, depends on alot of variables.

A non-proportional is still better than a rheostat.