HabiStat Classic Pro Mat Stat Thermostat

The HabiStat Classic Pro Mat Stat Thermostat is a digital on/off thermostat for heating mats, heating cables, and other heat sources with relatively low power. The thermostat turns on the connected terrarium heater at full power until the set temperature is reached. After that, the heat source is turned off until heating is needed again.

HabiStat Classic Pro Mat Stat Thermostat for heating mats

A heating mat that is plugged directly into an outlet will continue to heat continuously without any control. The final temperature is then influenced by factors such as room temperature, ventilation, glass thickness, and the substrate used. As a result, a selected heating zone may become warmer than intended.

This thermostat measures the temperature at the detachable sensor and automatically controls the heat source. When the measured temperature drops to approximately 1 °C below the set value, the heater turns on. When the set temperature is reached, it turns off again. This simple on-off control is particularly well-suited for heating mats and heating cables.

The Mat Stat can be used for various reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates that require controlled background or substrate heat. Examples include leopard geckos, corn snakes, ball pythons, and certain spiders or scorpions. Always adjust the temperature and heating method to suit the specific species.

Why use a thermostat for a heating mat?

A thermostat helps prevent a heating mat from continuing to heat up uncontrollably. This protects the animal and makes it easier to maintain a usable temperature gradient in the terrarium. Therefore, heat only a portion of the enclosure so that, in addition to the warm zone, there is still a cooler area available for the animal to retreat to.

The sensor measures only at the location where it is placed. Therefore, the displayed value does not automatically reflect conditions throughout the entire terrarium. Place the sensor securely in the relevant temperature zone and prevent the animal from moving it, covering it, or lying on it.

In addition to the thermostat, always use a separate digital thermometer. This allows you to check whether the temperature near the animal matches the thermostat setting. An infrared thermometer is a practical addition for measuring the floor, shelter, or other surfaces.

Not suitable as a thermostat for a heat lamp

The HabiStat Classic Pro Mat Stat Thermostat is not intended for use with luminous heat lamps. Due to the on-off control, a basking lamp would constantly turn on and off visibly. This causes flickering light and can shorten the lifespan of both the lamp and the thermostat.

For a basking lamp, halogen heat lamp, or deep heat projector, use the HabiStat Classic Pro Dimming Thermostat. It gradually increases and decreases the power. For a non-luminous ceramic heat lamp, the Classic Pro Pulse Proportional Thermostat is generally the better choice, as it can regulate the power more accurately using rapid current pulses.

LCD display and adjustable safety alarms

The LCD display shows the measured and set temperatures. The control range is from 0 to 50 °C, and the maximum connected load is 450 watts. The sensor can be disconnected from the unit, which simplifies installation and replacement if necessary.

The high- and low-temperature alarm alerts you when the measured temperature deviates too far from the selected setting. By default, this threshold is 5 °C, but you can adjust it from 1 to 5 °C. If necessary, the sensor reading can be calibrated up or down by up to 5 °C.

After a power outage, the thermostat automatically restores the previously saved settings. A ultra-fast-acting fuse helps protect the internal electronics if a connected heat source fails.

Technical Specifications of the HabiStat Classic Pro Mat Stat Thermostat

Manual

Place the HabiStat Classic Pro Mat Stat Thermostat in a dry, well-ventilated area and connect the heating mat or heating cable to the appropriate connector. Secure the sensor firmly at the measurement location and do not submerge it in water. Never exceed the maximum power of 450 watts.

Test the entire setup before placing an animal in the enclosure. Monitor how the temperature changes for at least one full day, and measure both the warm and cool zones. Adjust the settings only in small increments.