🌡️ Which Thermostat Should I Choose?

Using a thermostat is essential when keeping reptiles — it ensures a stable, safe environment and helps prevent overheating, which can be dangerous (or even fatal) for your animal. But with several types of thermostats available, how do you know which one is right for your setup?

This guide will walk you through the main types of thermostats and what they're best used for.

🔌 Why Do I Need a Thermostat?

Thermostats regulate the temperature inside your vivarium by controlling your heat source. Without one, heat bulbs or mats can become too hot, especially in enclosed spaces, creating unsafe conditions.

Using the right thermostat ensures:

• ✅ Stable temperature gradients

• ✅ Proper basking and cool zones

• ✅ A safe environment for your reptile

• ✅ Peace of mind for you!

🕹️ Types of Thermostats

1. On/Off Thermostats (Mat Stats)

These are the simplest and most affordable option.

• ✔️ Best for: Heat mats, low-wattage ceramic bulbs

• ⛔ Not ideal for: Light bulbs or anything where constant flicking on/off would cause damage or stress

• 🔁 Function: Turns the heat source on and off when the temperature drops below or exceeds your set level

💡 Ideal for species that don’t need a high-intensity heat source

2. Dimming Thermostats

These provide smoother temperature control and are great for species that need basking bulbs.

• ✔️ Best for: Incandescent or halogen heat bulbs

• ⚙️ Function: Gradually dims or brightens the bulb to maintain the set temperature

• ✅ Prevents constant on/off flickering

💡 Perfect for basking reptiles like bearded dragons

3. Pulse Thermostats

Pulse stats send short pulses of electricity to the heat source, providing fine-tuned control without damaging ceramic heaters.

• ✔️ Best for: Ceramic heat emitters or radiant heat panels

• ❌ Not for: Light-emitting bulbs (it can cause flickering)

• 🔁 Function: Maintains temperature by delivering quick bursts of energy

💡 Ideal for nocturnal reptiles or high-humidity enclosures

📦 What Else Will I Need?

To get the most out of your thermostat:

• 🌡️ Use a digital thermometer to cross-check temperatures

• 📍Place the thermostat probe correctly (on the surface or in the basking zone)

• 🧪 Test the setup before introducing your animal

🦎 Still Unsure?

At Blue Lizard Reptiles, we stock a wide range of thermostats and heating equipment for all reptile species. Still unsure which to choose?

👉 Contact us or visit our Heating & Thermostat section for expert advice and reliable gear.