Reptile Thermostat Guide – How to Choose the Right HabiStat Thermostat
Choosing the correct thermostat is essential for keeping your reptiles safe, healthy, and properly heated. Every heat source behaves differently, so the thermostat you use must match the type of heater in your setup.
This guide breaks down the four modern HabiStat Classic Pro thermostats we sell, explains which heater each one is designed for, and gives you a fast, reliable way to choose the right model for your enclosure.
Which Thermostat Do I Need?
Use this quick reference:
- Basking bulbs / halogen lamps / light-emitting heaters → HabiStat Dimming Thermostat Pro
- Day-night temperature cycles + dimming for light-emitting heaters → Digital Dimming Thermostat with Day/Night Timer
- Ceramic heat emitters, heat cable, radiant heat sources → HabiStat Pulse Thermostat Pro
- Heat mats and other low-powered background heaters → HabiStat Mat Stat Thermostat Pro
If you match the thermostat to the heater correctly, you will achieve stable temperatures, a longer heater lifespan, and optimal welfare for your animals.
Thermostat Comparison Table
| Thermostat | Best For | Not For | Max Load | Control Method |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Digital Dimming Thermostat (Day/Night) | Light-emitting heaters + day/night temperature cycling | 600W | Smooth dimming + timed circuits | |
| Dimming Thermostat Pro | Basking bulbs, incandescent lamps, halogens | Ceramic heaters | 450W | Smooth dimming |
| Pulse Thermostat Pro | Ceramic heaters, heat cable, high-output radiant heat | Any light-emitting heater | 450W | Rapid pulse proportional control |
| Mat Stat Thermostat Pro | Heat mats and low-power background heaters | Light-emitting heaters | 450W | On/Off control |
Digital Dimming Thermostat (With Day/Night Timer)
The most advanced thermostat in the range. Perfect for reptile rooms, bioactive setups, and enclosures where you want automated temperature cycles.
- Creates smooth dimming control for basking lamps
- Separate daytime and nighttime temperature programs
- Built-in 24-hour timed circuit for additional equipment
- Continuous readout of temperature, time, and power output
- Waterproof, low-voltage 3m probe
View the Digital Dimming Thermostat →
Dimming Thermostat Pro
The correct thermostat for all light-emitting heat sources. It adjusts power smoothly rather than switching on/off, preventing flicker and maintaining stable basking temperatures.
- Ideal for basking bulbs, incandescent lamps, and halogens
- Delivers smooth, precise dimming control
- Clear LCD readout of temperature
- External fast-blow safety fuse
View the Dimming Thermostat Pro →
Pulse Thermostat Pro
The best choice for ceramic heaters, heat cable, and other non-light-emitting heat sources. Instead of dimming the power, it sends rapid pulses to maintain extremely stable temperatures.
- Specially designed for high-output ceramic heaters
- Provides stable enclosure temperatures with minimal fluctuation
- Not suitable for any light-emitting lamp
- Clear LCD readout and adjustable alarm
View the Pulse Thermostat Pro →
Mat Stat Thermostat Pro
The recommended thermostat for heat mats and low-powered background heating. Uses simple on/off control to maintain consistent mat temperatures without overheating.
- Ideal for geckos, snakes, invertebrates, and small enclosures
- Simple and reliable on/off cycling
- Clear temperature readout with alarm system
- Not suitable for any light-emitting heat source
View the Mat Stat Thermostat Pro →
Summary
Matching your thermostat to your heat source is the key to providing safe and stable temperatures for your reptiles. If in doubt, remember:
- Light = Dimming Thermostat (Digital or Analogue)
- Ceramic = Pulse Thermostat
- Heat Mat = Mat Stat
If you need personalised advice, feel free to contact us — we’re always happy to help.
