Terrarium Heating Mats – A Complete Guide
A stable temperature is the foundation of the health of every reptile. Terrarium heating mats and foils are one of the most popular sources of heat in breeding – economical, reliable and easy to install. This guide will explain everything you need to know.
How do heating mats and foils work?
A heating foil is a thin component made of a resistive conductive material that produces heat when connected to electricity. It is installed under a terrarium or a breeding container, heating the substrate from below. The reptile can then choose whether it wants to lie down in a warm place or in a cooler zone.
This type of heating is particularly suitable for:
- Snakes (abdominal heating supports digestion)
- Leopard geckos
- Land turtles
- Rack Systems
WRS heating foils – especially for rack systems
Heating foils with a precisely selected width are best suited for rack systems. Two sizes are available:
- 130 mm (13 cm) heating foil – designed for the WRS10 system
- 260 mm (26 cm) heating foil – designed for WRS40 and WRS70 systems
The films are sold in running meters – you can order exactly as much as you need for your rack.
Heating cables – an alternative to foil
Heating cables are an excellent alternative to glass terrariums. They can be placed under a terrarium or buried under a layer of substrate (for species that like subsurface heat). Available capacities:
- Heating cable 15W / 5.5m – for small terrariums
- Heating cable 25W / 5m – for medium terrariums
- Heating cable 50W / 8.5m – for large tanks
How to install the heating foil?
The main rule: the foil should heat a maximum of 1/3 of the surface of the bottom of the container. This allows the reptile to choose between a warmer and cooler zone. A foil mounted across the entire width of the bottom prevents thermoregulation and is a mistake.
Rack system mounting diagram:
- The film sticks under the shelf of the rack (not inside the container)
- Rubs contact with wood or other insulating material on the side
- Cable connected to thermostat, temperature sensor located inside the container at ground level
Thermostat – mandatory
Any foil or heating cable must be connected to the thermostat. Without regulation, the temperature of the substrate can rise to 45-50°C, which is deadly. For heating the rack system with foil, we recommend the B1 Dimming thermostat (infinitely adjustable = best stability) or B2 Pulse.
How to check if the temperature is correct?
Use a thermometer with a probe placed at ground level in the warm zone. Target values for the most popular species:
- Royal python: 29–31°C (warm side)
- Grain hose: 28-30°C
- Leopard gecko: 28–32°C
