Speaking of UTHs - How Long Are They Good For?

[30secondstobob]

Before today's UTHs, there were the heat rocks. I have two that are about 18 years old and still work! Not that they have been used for that long, but I did get about 10 years of continuous use out of one of them. After my iguana outgrew it, I used it as a heat source in a tank to hand raise baby birds. I do feel my UTHs every day to make sure they're still working, and temp probe them weekly to be sure they're maintaining the correct temp. These are kind of new to me. How long are they expected to last? Bob

 

[katie_]

I think it all depends on the brand, and the individual item.
I had one last a month! The company took it back, as they ovbiously are made to last longer.
I would say personally, after five years to replace it. Even if it still works.

 

[sausage]

All the new modern ones seem to be built to not live long. i went through 4 heat rocks in 8 months last year coz they were faulty. I have a second hand heat mat thats probs about 8 years old and its only just on its way out.
just have it checked by a sparky if your not sure, if alls okay keep using it.

 

[30secondstobob]

Thanks guys! I'll be sure to post when my "unpopular" model conks out. Bob