UTH too large?

[gengar0202]

Hello, our family are new Leopard Gecko owners. I foolishly bought one of those "starter kits" and later realized that I needed a UTH. The tank is 10 gallons (will upgrade to a larger tank later). Anyway, I went on Amazon and the ordered Medium Zoo Med ReptiTherm UTH. I received the one that says it is for 30-40 gallon tanks! Seems like a bargain for $17, but I am worried this will put out too much heat. I have also purchased the Hydrofarm MTPRTC Digital Thermostat for Heat Mats so that I should be able to adjust the heat. What do you think? Can I make this work or should I exchange it for a smaller UTH? I haven't opened it yet.

Thanks.

 

[DrCarrotTail]

The UTH should cover about 1/3 to no more than 1/2 the bottom of the tank. If it covers more you won't have a heat gradient (1/2 is pushing it especially with a small tank like a 10 gallon). I would recommend the 8x10 for a 10 gallon if you are planning to exchange it

 

[gengar0202]

Well the surface size of the heater is 8 x 12. I'm also worried that it will just output too much heat if it is designed for a 30 gallon tank.

 

[Music City Geckos]

You will need to get a simple thermostat to control how much heat is given off by the heat mat.

 

[indyana]

I have to agree that the best way to regulate a under-tank heating mat is to use a thermostat, especially the ones that have a temperature sensor and can be set to a certain temperature limit.

Even the little pads made for a 10 gallon aquarium can make the bottom of the tank too hot if allowed to run unregulated. You can use a dimmer, but you have to remember to constantly check the temperature of the bottom of the tank and adjust the dimmer as necessary.