I’m currently using dimmer switches to maintain the Basting light and a heat emitter for nite time. What’s a good thermostat to use instead of dimmer switch’s or are they really nessary.
You can always use a digital probe thermometer to keep an eye on ambient temps--- I have both in my tank a probe and a dial --- the dial is on my basking side and only gives me a hint of what that side of tank is running- I use a infrared heat gun for actual basking temps- the probe is on cool side of tank --
Karrie
Thermostats are nice to have but a luxury item. If you are able to maintain a good temperature gradient with a manual dimmer, that's fine. Herpstat and Microclimate thermostats are good options, but they aren't cheap and things like high quality UVB lights and vet emergency funds should come first.