Heating question

[Jmeyer]

Alright. So I’ve looked through the threads and think this has been answered but wanted to clarify.

I have a 45 lb sulcata and a night/winter box similar to one provided by Tom. Am going to heat it with a Kane heat mat on the floor (80 watt) and a vocation radiant heat panel on the ceiling (120watt- probably overkill but from what I can tell is till safe).

Questions
1. Does the radiant heat panel need a proportional thermostat. If so, any inexpensive recommendations? Currently have a thermostat but I don’t think it’s “proportional”
2. Currently have a substrate of mixed soil and cypress mulch. He seems to like it thou ft I he doesn’t dig much. I know Tom’s are bare floor and I could do that if need be but like I said, “Pat” seems to like the substrate. Can I have that on the mat or is that a big no no. If it is a no can I have the substrate in the rest of the house knowing a lot of it will frequently end up on the mat or still a danger? Think that’s all I got.

 

[Alex and the Redfoot]

Hello!
1. A simple "on/off" thermostat will work just fine, not need to get a "proportional".
2. As I remember, manual for Kane mats recommends to use them without covering. There is no danger when some substrate gets on the mat, however it's better to elevate the mat a bit.

 

[Jmeyer]

Thank you!

 

[wellington]

Hello!
1. A simple "on/off" thermostat will work just fine, not need to get a "proportional".
2. As I remember, manual for Kane mats recommends to use them without covering. There is no danger when some substrate gets on the mat, however it's better to elevate the mat a bit.

I don't believe anyone elevates the mats. It's also not needed
Some substrate won't hurt it if tracked on, just sweep it off

 

[wellington]

Do not have to elevate the heat mat. But should be a heat source above it so the tortoise doesn't sit on the mat too long trying to get its carapace heated.
Also do not cover the mat with substrate. If any gets dragged into it, it's fine and occasionally sweep it off.
Soil is not recommended unless it's from your own yard. Store bought stuff has too much junk in it.