temperature control

[tequila]

i was wondering what is a good way to control temps. i have read on this fourm that people control their temperatures using a thermostat or light dimmer. i can see how a light dimmer would work to lower or raise temps. but how would a thermostat work. i know they are used to control household heaters but how are they used to control the temps in a tank?

thanks for the help

[retic]

Temperature controllers (Helix, Ranco, Herpstat, ESU) are the best way to control your heat source (heat tape, heat rope. heat panel) as the probe senses the heat and turns it on and off as the temperature is met, dimmers will work but as your ambiant temperature goes up so will the enclosure and if the power goes out for some reason not all dimmers will come back on, trust me on this one been doing that method for years but constantly checking with my Raytek Lazer Heat Gun and keeping my herp room at the same temp all the time but no more as i have 4 of them as i just ordered 3 from Justcage Hope this Helps Phil