Anyone use Kane Heat Mats?

[corr]

These seem ideal for melamine enclosures. They're cheaper (and seemingly more effecient) than radiant heat panels but I've never heard of anyone using them.

[corr]

I just ordered one. I'll let you know how I like it. ;)

For anyone else considering trying these, a guy on ebay is selling them for $63.95.

[jjnnbns]

Heat tape and even petstore UTHs are much cheaper, even with the cost of the rheostat or dimmer. What is supposed to be the benefit of a Kane heat mat?

[corr]

IMO these heat mats are more effecient and safer than UTHs and heat tape. With these, I can stack melamine cages right on top of eachother (like having radiant heat panels). All the pet store UTHs I've seen say only to use them on glass tanks and frankly, heat tape scares me. Don't get me wrong, I'm pretty handy with electrical stuff and such, BUT if there ever was a fire, the insurance company would have a good excuse not to pay out... knowwhatimean?

[Cruciform]

I don't even like using the human heating pads, in case something happened and insurance got voided.

Owing a full mortgage on a pile of ash would suck.

[sara]

I have 2 in use right now. I really like them, they're big, durable and easy to clean but a top quality thermostat is absolutely necessary, otherwise it isn't any different than a giant hot-rock... keep in mind they are manufactured for livestock. (I heard of them initially from a farmer) Personally I think they are worth the investment, and I do sleep a little easier at night knowing those two enclosures aren't going to burst into flame any time soon. :p

[corr]

Originally posted by Cruciform
Owing a full mortgage on a pile of ash would suck.

You ain't kidding!

Sara, I plan on using a rheostat for sure. The company actually promotes these for reptiles now. http://www.kanemfg.com/petandreptileheatmat.htm Did you buy yours in Canada or order through the states?

[sara]

I bought them in B.C., but I would guess they were brought up from the states originally.