Temp./Heat tape ?

[beardiefan]

I'm trying to get my temps. correct in my new rack but, I'm getting very different readings on my two thermometers. When my digital reads 85-86 @ the probe ( I know it's to low just working things out) my temp gun reads 97-98. I have 3" Flexwatt hooked up to a dimmer,( a Helix is next) running under a model #2221 Rubbermaid. I'd like to know which one to go by before I add my BP's. Any help would be great.

Thanx Don

[lolaophidia]

My temp gun is pretty accurate, and it's easy to test it by pointing it at something you know the temperature of (like boiling water).

With your digital thermostat, the placement of the probe is very important. It needs to be on the spot where your snake will be resting over the heat source. Just an inch or so off the heat source can give you a very different reading.

I also use Helix thermostats and they've worked well for me.

[beardiefan]

Right now the probe is taped inside the rubbermaid, right over the heat tape/hot spot. The tape WILL be removed after I get the temps set and before I add the snakes.

[mykee]

Temp guns are 100 times more accurate than any digital temp. probe that you can pick up @ Wal-mart, Canadian Tire or Home Depot. I have both, and I NEVER take the probe's word for it.

[beardiefan]

Actually Radio Shack.. LOL
Thanks guys I'll use the gun. I assume you guys double check your Helixes (sp) with a temp gun as well?

Don

[lolaophidia]

Yes, though I haven't found any significant differences between a temp gun reading and a Helix probe reading at exactly the same spot. You've got to give the Helix a little time also to read the temps vs. the temp gun instant reading. I expect a thermostat to fluctuate a bit as it adjusts to the changes in ambient temperature. I've got a Ranco (non-proportional) that seems to click all the time turning on and off.

[Justcage]

Usualy a temp gun is going to be the more accurate of the thermometers. It will also give you a false reading if your to far away.. Check you D:S ratio....

[beardiefan]

What is a D:S ratio?