Use the control mode specified for your panel
The supplied European ReptiRad manual specifies a compatible dimming or pulse-proportional thermostat. Do not operate the panel without suitable temperature control. Follow both the panel instructions and the thermostat manufacturer’s instructions.
A pulse-proportional controller supplies pulses of power to regulate the heater. When choosing a thermostat from other manufacturers, check the exact model and output mode; a marketing name alone does not establish compatibility.
If you already own an on/off thermostat, do not assume it meets the ReptiRad manual’s requirements. Confirm compatibility before connecting it. For a white-label or non-European product, use the instructions supplied with that version.
Check voltage, load and connections
The European models in the supplied manual are rated at 230V ~ 50Hz. Check the label on your actual panel, particularly when buying in a different country. The thermostat must support that voltage and the panel’s rated wattage.
If more than one device is connected, the combined power must not exceed the controller’s permitted load. Check any restrictions for individual outlets as well as the overall controller rating.
Place the probe below the panel
The ReptiRad manual specifies a probe directly below the panel, at a suitable height above the substrate to measure representative air temperature in the heated zone. Fix it securely so the animal cannot move, cover or damage it.
Probe placement calculator
A starting position.
Measured for your setup.
You must use a dimming or pulse-proportional thermostat compatible with your panel. Position its probe directly beneath the ReptiRad.
Measure vertically from the panel’s lower heating face to the top of the substrate directly below it. Enter that clear distance, rather than the enclosure’s external height.
Your initial probe position will appear here.
This calculator places the probe four-fifths of the measured distance down from the panel, leaving one-fifth above the substrate. It is a simplified interpretation of the manual’s examples, and does not replace the manufacturer’s instructions or define a safe clearance.
Secure the probe so the animal cannot move, cover or damage it. Measure temperatures throughout the enclosure and adjust the probe position and thermostat settings for your species. Run the complete setup for at least 24 hours and verify stable, appropriate temperatures before introducing the animal.
Manufacturer’s example positions
The original figures below are retained for reference. They use enclosure height, so they will not necessarily match the calculator’s 80% estimate based on your measured panel-to-substrate distance.
| Enclosure height | Probe above substrate |
|---|---|
| 60cm | Approximately 8cm |
| 90cm | Approximately 13–18cm |
| 120cm | Approximately 20–30cm |
These figures are starting positions, not distances between the panel and the animal. Check actual temperatures across the enclosure and adjust the probe position and settings for the species. Read the full probe-placement instructions.
Test, measure and keep checking
Run the completed enclosure for at least 24 hours before introducing the animal. Include the equipment you normally use and confirm that temperatures remain stable and appropriate in the different zones.
The thermostat’s setpoint describes the control target at its probe. It does not confirm every surface or part of the enclosure is at that temperature. Prevent access to dangerously hot surfaces and check the complete layout.
Recheck temperatures, probe position, mounting and cable condition during use. Room-temperature changes can alter the enclosure conditions. If the setup cannot maintain the required temperatures, contact us with your model and setup details.
Sources & scope
ReptiRad manufacturer instructions (Italian PDF); English installation and care guide.
Panel instructions refer to the European version in the supplied manual. Follow the instructions and electrical specification supplied with your actual product. This guide does not provide species-specific temperature settings.