Newbie Thermometer Question

[trisharg]

We have had our 1 year old beardie for a couple weeks now. We have a dial thermometer - and I know they are inaccurate now. We have a digital one on the cool side of the tank which tends to show temps in the low 80s. The dial one only shows maybe 90. It has to be warmer than that in there. But I can't know and am hoping you all might be able to recommend a reasonably priced alternative. Thank you!

 

[CooperDragon]

Temp guns are a good choice because you can get instant and relatively accurate surface temp readings all over the tank (and outside the tank). http://www.amazon.com/Nubee-Temperature-Non-contact-Infrared-Thermometer/dp/B00CVHIJDK/

Another option is to get a digital thermometer with a probe that you can place on the surface you want the temperature of. They take about 30-45 minutes to get an accurate reading though. You can get a reading on the basking surface and then move the probe to the cool side and then back to the basking site for more long term monitoring. Something like this perhaps http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00PQ2GJNY

 

[trisharg]

Thank you so much. I think I will order that temp gun. I have noticed that he spends almost all his time on the hot side of the tank so would be good to figure out the temps throughout more accurately. Thanks again!