Controllers, Timers, and Power Handling
Thermostats, hygrostats, and related items for terrariums
Page Contents:
Thermostats/Controllers:
Zoo Med Environmental Controller
Zoo Med Reptitemp Thermostat
Exo Terra Pulse Proportional Thermostat
Timers:
Analog Outlet Timer
Digital Outlet Timer
Zilla Terrarium Controller
Zoo Med Day/Night Timer
Zoo med Analog Terrarium Controller
Power Management:
Extension Cords
Power Strips
Zip Ties
✗ Hide This List
Section 1: Thermostats
Jump To Section:
Controller: Zoo Med Environmental Control Center
Controls heaters, coolers, humidifiers, and lights!
NEHERP Staff Description:
The reviews for the newest version of this controller are just awesome, and represent a huge step forward by Zoo Med. This single unit is a standard thermostat, dimming thermostat, hygrostat, and day/night light timer combined. It can be set up to heat or cool as well as humidify or dehumidify depending on your goals. There are three probes (cool side, hot side, humidity), and an awesome nighttime mode which can be programmed to drop temperatures automatically. The wired LCD Remote Controller has a 6-foot lead with a cradle, and can be attached where it's convenient. Like Zoo Med's standard Thermostat, their Environmental Control Center will remember all it's settings in the event of a power failure and has a programmable temperature alarm for safety. There's a whole lot to this thing, and we'd recommend watching their instructional YouTube videoext. link when it comes time to set it up.
Long-time customers of NEHERP know we generally don't recommend automating misting systems with anything but a timer. At our shop we'd be more likely to connect a misting system to Outlet #4 ("timed accessory"), rather than outlet #2's hygrostat. If you plan to use this Environmental Controller's humidification function, our recommendation would be to tie it to a Zoo Med Reptifogger. Simply set the humidity to whatever level you are looking for, and adjust the Reptifogger to a low setting on it's dial. That should end up producing a gentle humidifying effect which can be used independently, or as a backup to a timed Misting System.
Outlets Explained:
Outlet 1: Dimming Thermostat for dimmable heaters
Outlet 2: On/Off Thermostat for heaters or coolers
Outlet 3: Hygrostat for fan or humidifier (Dry/Cool)
Outlet 4: Digital Timer for an additional accessory
Outlet 5: Digital Timer for daytime lighting
Outlet 6: Digital Timer for nighttime lighting
Technical Specs:
• Selectable Modes: Heating or Cooling
• Thermostat Type: On/Off and Dimming
• Wattage: 1000W/outlet (1850W Total Max)
• Control Range: 50°F to 122°F
• Control Style: Corded Digital Handset
• Extra: Day/Night Timer + Accessory Timer
Thermostat: Zoo Med Reptitemp
A digital thermostat for heating or cooling terrariums & incubators
NEHERP Staff Description:
Zoo Med's Reptitemp is our favorite On/Off thermostat, and is surprisingly accurate for the price. Reviews elsewhere and our own independent tests have shown that this little unit is probably the best inexpensive mainstream thermostat on the market right now. Unlike most digital controllers, this one can switch from cooling to heating mode seasonally, or for specific applications which require either method of control. In our test unit, we saw a +/-1F swing using this model of thermostat, which is solid for anything in this price range. Like all thermostats, it's critical to use a separate thermometer to meter temperature independently. Doing so will allow the user to have the most accurate and consistent results over time. This has a built-in alarm function, will remember it's settings after a power failure, and is incredibly quick & easy to set up. Not sure about the difference between On/Off and Pulse Proportional thermostats? Learn More!
Standard On/Off Thermostats
(How the Zoo Med Reptitherm Thermostat works!)
This is how most thermostats work, with the digital variants usually being more accurate than their mechanical counterparts. Mechanical "wafer style" thermostats are notoriously inaccurate by comparison! Standard on/off thermostats work very simply by sending power or disabling power depending on a set temperature and a measured temperature. This is an extremely well proven, functional, and simple solution which works for the vast majority of applications. Please note the graphic is accelerated & exaggerated for the sake of visual animation.
Pulse Proportional Thermostats
(Not how the Zoo Med Reptitherm Thermostat works!)
Pulse Proportional Thermostats gradually raise & lower ("pulse") the power going to the heating element to maintain a steady temperature. This is thought to help minimize temperature swing, but can only be used on certain electronic devices which are compatible with dimmers and/or pulse-capable thermostats. Pulse proportional thermostats are considered a little more precise than on/off thermostats, due to the gradual pulsing of power to the heating element(s). Please note the graphic is accelerated & exaggerated for the sake of visual animation.
Manufacturer Description:
Temperature control range: 50°F to 122°F. Controls Temperature by turning on heating devices in “HEAT” mode or by turning on cooling devices (e.g., fan) in “COOL” mode. Remote Temperature Sensor with 6 foot cable. Controls up to 600 watts of heating devices. Controls up to 150 watts of cooling devices.
Technical Specs:
• Selectable Modes: Heating or Cooling
• Thermostat Type: Standard On/Off
• Wattage: 600W Heating / 150W Cooling
• Control Range: 50°F to 122°F
• Control Style: Digital
Thermostat: Exo Terra Pulse Proportional 300W
A pulse proportional thermostat for heating terrariums & incubators
NEHERP Staff Description:
A pulse proportional thermostat for less than a hundred bucks would have been unheard of just a few years ago. Exo Terra has been stepping up their game with their new line of thermostats, which each include a 5-year manufacturer guarantee. This is an ideal heat controller for many different applications. Like all thermostats, it's critical to use a separate thermometer to meter temperature independently. Doing so will allow the user to have the most accurate and consistent results over time. This will remember it's settings after a power failure, and is incredibly quick & easy to set up. Not sure about the difference between On/Off and Pulse Proportional thermostats? Learn More!
Standard On/Off Thermostats
(A selectable option for this Exo Terra Thermostat!)
This is how most thermostats work, with the digital variants usually being more accurate than their mechanical counterparts. Mechanical "wafer style" thermostats are notoriously inaccurate by comparison! Standard on/off thermostats work very simply by sending power or disabling power depending on a set temperature and a measured temperature. This is an extremely well proven, functional, and simple solution which works for the vast majority of applications. Please note the graphic is accelerated & exaggerated for the sake of visual animation.
Pulse Proportional Thermostats
(A selectable option for this Exo Terra Thermostat!)
Pulse Proportional Thermostats gradually raise & lower ("pulse") the power going to the heating element to maintain a steady temperature. This is thought to help minimize temperature swing, but can only be used on certain electronic devices which are compatible with dimmers and/or pulse-capable thermostats. Pulse proportional thermostats are considered a little more precise than on/off thermostats, due to the gradual pulsing of power to the heating element(s). Please note the graphic is accelerated & exaggerated for the sake of visual animation.
Manufacturer Description:
With the Exo Terra 300W Dimming & Pulse Proportional Thermostat you can create a well-controlled heating system that allows you to maintain the required temperature conditions similar to those found in a desert or tropical environment. The Dimming & Pulse Proportional function keeps the temperature at the desired set-point with a much higher accuracy than conventional thermostats and virtually eliminates temperature swings in the terrarium. Always use a Thermometer to monitor the temperature inside your terrarium. Adjust the Exo Terra Thermostat according to the required temperature range for your pet's environment.
Technical Specs:
• Selectable Modes: Heating Only
• Thermostat Type: On/Off, Dimming, Or Pulse Proportional
• Wattage: Up to 300W
• Control Range: 64-100F
• Control Style: Analog Dial
Section 2: Timers
Jump To Section:
Timer: Analog Outlet Timer
An economical grounded 1725W (15A) timer
NEHERP Staff Description:
This inexpensive timer is simple, reliable, and long-lasting. We had some of these running our grow lights at NEHERP for years before moving locations and upgrading to our digital model. Using a timer to automate the day/night cycle for a live vivarium helps promote a healthy circadian rhythm, which benefits both plants and animals. Includes a manual "on" switch to bypass the timer for convenience. Minimum 15 minute on/off intervals. Rated for 15A/1725W.
Timer: Dual Outlet Digital Seconds Timer
Our most precise timer with digital seconds control!
NEHERP Staff Description:
These digital timers offer 8 user-selected on/off cycles per day, with each day's schedule individually programmable down to the second. We recommend them controlling misting systems, foggers, day/night lighting, lighting effects (storm, overcast, lightning-emulating LEDs, hydroponics, and more. Two grounded outlets offer easier connection of multiple devices. (Note: Each outlet not separately programmable.) Unlike analog timers, this digital unit won't require adjustment after a power outage. Minimum 1 second on/off intervals. Rated for 15A/1725W. UL Listed for safety.
Timer: Digital Terrarium Controller
A reliable digital power strip
NEHERP Staff Description:
We've found these digital power centers to be very useful when working with live vivariums. There are 8 grounded outlets in total. Two outlets are dedicated to daytime, two are dedicated to nighttime, and four outlets remain constantly powered. The constantly powered ones are perfect for thermostats, misting systems, foggers, or water feature pumps. There are up to 7 daily time cycles, but we've only ever needed the basic 12-hour cycle for live vivarium use. For reliability & peace of mind, we stock & ship authentic US brands (Zilla/Coralife) only. Each outlet has a sliding cap for safety, and this unit comes with a grounded 3ft cord.
14 Gauge 3ft Cord | Rated 1875W 15A
Timer: Zoo Med Day Night Timer
A nifty timer that controls day & night lighting
NEHERP Staff Description:
This clever little timer automatically alternates between day and night outlets. Simply plug your day lighting solution into the upper outlet, and your night lighting (or heating) solution into the lower outlet. Set the timer, and the outlets will automatically alternate on and off based on your set schedule. No more worrying about setting up two different timers which eventually fall out-of-sync!
Manufacturer Description:
The ReptiCare Day & Night Timer turns Daylights on in the morning and off at night, and Nightlights on at night and off in the morning! Dual Day and Night Timer for terrarium lighting and heating devices. Regulate your terrarium's photoperiod with this easy-to-use day/night timer! Rated for 8A / 900W.
Timer: Zoo Med Terrarium Controller
24-Hour programmable analog timer
NEHERP Staff Description:
The Zoo Med terrarium controller is handy for all sorts of different setups which require both continuous and timed outlets. Just about every species benefits from a scheduled day/night lighting cycle controlled by a reliable timer. (Usually 12 or so hours on/off) Then there are the other accessories like thermostats, heaters, fans, and misting systems which require power 24/7 in order to function properly. This nifty controller has 4 outlets which are always on plus 4 outlets which are controlled by the built-in timer. With this setup, you could keep all of your accessories plugged into the "always on" outlets and use the timed outlets for your enclosure's day light. This is now our only "terrarium controller" model, after dropping a competing digital product which couldn't match the good reputation of the Zoo Med model. Includes "all on" switch to bypass the timer for convenience. Each outlet is grounded, and the controller is rated for a total of 1000W.
Manufacturer Description:
Provide a natural day/night cycle for your reptiles with this 24-hour Programmable Timer & Power Strip in One! 24 hour programmable lighting timer. Provides a natural day/night cycle for your reptile. Includes 8 grounded outlets: 4 timer controlled outlets. 4 continuous power outlets. Grounded 3 prong receptacle for safety. Easy-To-Program analog design.
Section 3: Wire Management
Jump To Section:
Extension Cords
Heavy duty cables for jobs up to 1800W!
NEHERP Staff Description:
These heavy duty extension cords are great for tackling heavy workload tasks around your hobby or work room. The cord material is sturdy & built to stand up to all sorts of environments. Each cord is grounded and has a 3-outlet opening on the end. Made from thick 14 gauge wiring and rated for up to 1800W (15A), these would be comparable to "Utility/Contractor" cords rather than the more common 16/18 gauge household cords. Our prices are usually lower than most hardware stores for an equal gauge, equal length product. Labeled for indoor use only.
Select Length:
This option sold out, the other may be available
12ft Long | 3 Outlets | 14 Gauge | Rated 1800W 15A
This option has sold out!
25ft Long | 3 Outlets | 14 Gauge | Rated 1800W 15A
Power Strips
Four and six outlet 1800W power strips
NEHERP Staff Description:
Simple, easy, and effective ways to add more outlets where you need them. Both strips are rated for 1800W, and have a 15A circuit breaker with illuminated red switch. The 4-outlet strip has 24 inch cord, and the 6-outlet strip has a 36 inch cord. We use a handful of these in our grow room, behind our terrariums, and elsewhere at the shop. UL Listed for safety.
Zip Ties
Great for organizing cables, tubing, and more
NEHERP Staff Description:
There are tons of uses for these including tying cables back, organizing misting tubing, hanging drainage lines, and much more. Our ties are just shy of 8" in length, and are less pricey than stopping at a home improvement store.
(8in Length)
(8in Length)
NEHERP Tip: Keeping Conditions Stable
Using Glass Inserts & Tops
NEHERP Product Recommendation:
Working to keep conditions stable in a terrarium can be tough with a full screen top. Every single one of our live vivariums uses Glass Inserts to control airflow and keep conditions stable within the enclosure. Our Glass Inserts and Glass Tops are cut by hand right here in Connecticut using real glass. Expect a perfect fit on your terrarium with excellent light transmission. Since they are real glass (not cheap plexi/acrylic/plastic), they won't bend/warp over time!
Select Your Enclosure's Brand:
Sorry, our inserts aren't a perfect fit with other brands!