Flexwatt or heat cable???

[MSMD]

OK...we are in the process of getting ready to build a rack. Am planning on doing belly heat either way, but would like some opinions on whether everyone prefers flexwatt or heat cable? The heat cable seems easier to install, but seems like it would function better routed into the shelving to remain flat. Any opinions on safety, etc??

Also, anyone have any experience with these:

http://www.reptilebasics.com/Ultratherm-Undertank-Heater-6-x-47-p-16270.html

And know if they are safe for plastic tubs?? I know that some UTHs are safe for non-glass and some are not, it says it's safe to use on a rack and with wood/melamine, but nothing about plastic. I emailed to see, but wondering if anyone has had any experience with them. It would be so easy to run these along the rack. Rack will be 72"Tx24"Dx48"W.

Thanks!

 

[Leopardbreeder]

I don't understand, are you wanting to use those for the rack? Use heat tape for a rack. Heat cable needs to be done with a router. That is usually alot of work.

 

[MSMD]

Yes, I am looking for a heating method to use for a rack. Sorry.....it sounded right in my head. Now that I reread it is confusing!

And wondering if anyone has used the 6"x47" UTHs for a rack....it sounds too easy to be true?? lol

Thanks!

 

[Leopardbreeder]

No, you will definitely want to use HEAT TAPE on the rack. You will need 10 or 20 of those to cover the bins. Let me know if you don't know about

 

[ataber]

i think what mari is asking about is using a single 6" x 47" uth on the back similar to a strip of heat tape going down the back of the rack for back heat. i dont recommend that as the majority here doesnt either. use heat tape/cable and put it on each shelf for belly heat.

 

[lytlesnake]

Honestly it's best to route flexwatt into the shelves too. I've heard it's not so great to keep rubbing your tubs directly on the flexwatt. It's pretty sturdy stuff, but it's still better to route it if you ask me. I don't build racks, but I've bought several different types. The one with routed flexwatt belly heat is the most efficient by far. My new vision rack uses the heat cable though and I think it's pretty cool. From what I've heard about wiring up flexwatt, the heat cable is way easier to deal with. It's got a plug on one end, and it can be secured with electrical tape. So for simplicity I like the heat cable, and it does work nicely.

 

[Double LY]

After hearing a couple of horror stories about tubs being melted by flexwatt, my paranoia set in. I finally found out about the Zoo Med heat cable and decided to give rack building a shot (we were overloaded with tanks in my living room). You do need to route it in to the shelf, but it was really easy. Since the tubs will cover the groove, it doesn't need to be picture perfect either. If I can build a rack and route in the heat cable - anyone can :main_thumbsup:

 

[MSMD]

Thank you all that have responded!

Yes, Ataber, that's what I was trying to ask regarding the UTH! lol Thanks for the input!

I know everyone tends to have their owns opinions on this matter, but that's exactly what I wanted!

 

[ReptileMan27]

I use heat cable, works great.