HabiStat Heat Mat 12W – Infrared Reptile Heat Mat

The HabiStat 12 Watt Heat Mat provides gentle, ultra-long wavelength infrared warmth for reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates. Designed as a low-wattage background heat source, it gently warms the surfaces it contacts rather than the surrounding air, closely mimicking the way the sun heats natural substrates.

Made in the UK from carbon-impregnated cloth, HabiStat Heat Mats are thin, flat and easy to hide within an enclosure. They are ideal for providing steady, localised warmth for smaller enclosures, racks and species that prefer belly heat or gentle background temperatures rather than intense basking spots.

Key Benefits:

• Produces ultra-long wavelength infrared heat that warms surfaces, not just air.
• Thin, flat design suitable for floor, wall or side mounting.
• Provides gentle background heat ideal for many nocturnal or crepuscular species.
• Carbon impregnated cloth construction, manufactured in the UK.

When To Use:

Use this heat mat when you need a gentle, low-wattage background heat source rather than an intense overhead basking lamp. It is particularly useful for small enclosures, racks and species that prefer to absorb heat from the floor or from warm hides, especially at night.

Suitable For:

Suitable for many smaller reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates that benefit from gentle background warmth rather than high basking temperatures. Always research the specific thermal needs of the species you are keeping and provide additional basking or overhead heat where required.

Technical Specifications:

• Wattage: 12 W
• Dimensions: 28 cm × 28 cm (approx.)
• Type: Ultra-long wavelength infrared heat mat
• Mounting: Suitable for floor, wall or side mounting
• Construction: Carbon impregnated cloth
• Origin: Made in the UK

Safety & Thermostat Guidance:

All heat mats must be used with a suitable thermostat to prevent overheating and to maintain a safe thermal gradient. HabiStat Heat Mats are designed to be used alongside a compatible mat thermostat such as the HabiStat Mat Stat.

Even though heat mats provide gentle warmth, they are still electrical heaters and can become too warm if not correctly controlled. A thermostat, reliable thermometer and regular monitoring are essential for animal safety.

Best Practice Installation:

• Install the mat according to the manufacturer’s instructions (under or on the side of the enclosure as appropriate).
• Always use with a suitable thermostat and position the probe correctly.
• Allow the system to run for at least 24–48 hours before introducing animals, to confirm stable temperatures.
• Ensure animals cannot become trapped directly against unprotected glass or surfaces that may become too warm.
• Regularly check warm and cool areas with a quality thermometer or digital temperature gun.

Cleaning & Care:

For routine cleaning, disconnect the heat mat from the mains and allow it to cool fully. Wipe the surface with a slightly damp cloth and ensure the terminal area remains dry. Never immerse the mat in water or allow moisture to enter the electrical components.

Do not pierce, fold, cut or bend the heat mat. If the mat becomes damaged, perforated or heavily delaminated, discontinue use and replace it.

HabiStat Heat Mat Instructions:

For full installation and safety guidance, please refer to the official HabiStat Heat Mat instruction leaflet.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Is a thermostat required with this heat mat?
Yes. All heat mats should be used with a suitable thermostat, such as a mat stat, to maintain safe and stable temperatures and prevent overheating.

Should the heat mat go inside or outside the enclosure?
This depends on the enclosure type and manufacturer guidance. Many glass or plastic enclosures use heat mats externally on the base or side, while some wooden vivariums may use internal installations with appropriate protection. Always follow the official instructions and check temperatures carefully.

Is a 12 W heat mat enough as the only heat source?
For some small enclosures and species, it may provide sufficient background warmth. However, many diurnal reptiles require additional basking lamps or overhead heat sources to achieve higher daytime basking temperatures.

Can I use this heat mat 24 hours a day?
Yes, when correctly controlled by a thermostat and installed safely, it can be used as a 24-hour background heat source, especially to provide gentle night-time warmth.

What should I do before adding animals?
Install the mat, connect it to a suitable thermostat and run the system for 24–48 hours while monitoring temperatures. Only introduce animals once you are confident that the warm and cool zones are within the correct range for your species.