Proportional verses On/Off

The Helix DBS-1000 is what is called a "proportional" thermostat. Helix Controls was one of the pioneers in reptile thermostats using this technology and Helix Thermostats have been around for many years now. "proportional" refers to the gradual adjustment (up and down) of power output until the set temperature is maintained. Other, non proportional thermostats use an "on/off" approach and usually have a 1 or 2 degree (or more in cheaper ones) "slop". They turn on 100% when the temperature falls a degree or two below the set point and they stay on until the temperature gets a degree or two above the set point. This means that if you set your thermostat at 80 degrees your actual temps can vary between as low as 76-78 degrees and as high as 82-84 degrees. A roller coaster ride for your animals. You can think of the proportional thermostat more like a light dimmer with a brain constantly adjusting itself to maintain a much more precise temperature. The "slop" in proportional thermostats is usually measured in 1/10 degrees. Proportional models also offer a very easy to use "Night Drop" capability. This makes it super easy to cycle your animals during breeding season without controlling the temperature of the whole room.

Proportional thermostats are just about required if you are using it for an incubator. The "slop" in on/off models can be a real problem. Especially in cheaper, less accurate models. We prefer them for all of our animals though the on/off models will work well if used for supplemental basking areas or in situations where economy is key. Just remember, like with anything else, you get what you pay for. DON’T make the mistake of keeping your multi thousand dollar high end herp collection on heat controlled by a cheap thermostat. Just about any "old timer" in the reptile business can tell you a story about "cooking" some prized animals. We are also strong advocates of "back up" thermostats used in line with your primary unit set just a few degrees higher. An important note in that application: You can’t use a proportional thermostat to back up a proportional thermostat. Set up your proportional unit as the primary thermostat and use the on/off model to back it up.