RCReptiles.com

[bullshingle]

I have the Zoo Med Rheostat. Has anyone ever used one before and how did it work for you? I have it set to low and it keeps my temps and humidity perfect when I ran a test.

[hhmoore]

Which one? There is one that handles 150w, and one for 500w.
I can't comment on the 150w model, but I have several of the 500R's. I've never had any issues with them, other than the one inherent with using any rheostat - when room temperature fluctuates, it changes the temps in the enclosure. Depending on the degree of change, it may, or may not, require adjustment of the setting.
I rarely use my AC, so I turn the heat off on many of my cages during the summer...so I don't worry too much about that. Spring and fall, though, I need to pay attention. I randomly check temps anyway, and its easy enough to tell when the room temp changes by 5 degrees (less than that doesn't really require action here)

[hhmoore]

Oh - one other thing...the rheostat doesn't keep your humidity levels anywhere. That is dependent on other parts of your set up.

[bullshingle]

[a_green]

I used a rheostat for a very short time and hated it. I lived in a basement suite that got really cold and really hot very fast, so I was having to always adjust it... the rheostat was essentially useless to me. I had to replace it with a thermostat.

[hhmoore]

Rheostats are good at what they do...but if room temperature fluctuates regularly, they really aren't worth the effort.