Available on backorder
Original price was: USD188.28.USD173.76Current price is: USD173.76.
Herpstat 1 by Spyder Robotics is a professional-grade, single-output reptile thermostat designed for precise and reliable temperature regulation.
Featuring proportional dimming and pulse heating modes, the Herpstat 1 automatically adjusts power to compatible heating equipment. As a result, it helps maintain stable temperatures in reptile enclosures, breeding racks and incubators.
Ideal for: Radiant heat panels, reptile heat tape, heat mats, compatible basking lamps and incubators.
Includes: Herpstat 1 controller, power cord and temperature probe.
Important: This is the standard Herpstat 1 without Wi-Fi connectivity. For remote monitoring, consider the Herpstat 1 SpyderWeb.
Available on backorder
Precision Proportional Temperature Control
Dimming & Pulse Control • Day/Night Programming • Advanced Safety Features
Single output: Independently controls one heating zone or other supported function.
Proportional heating: Dimming and pulse modes adjust power to maintain stable temperatures.
700-watt capacity: Supports compatible heating equipment up to 700 watts.
Temperature range: 40–150°F (4–65°C).
Day/night programming: Set separate temperatures with gradual transitions.
Safety features: Audible alarms, probe failure detection and automatic output shutoff.
Manufacturer: Spyder Robotics.
The Herpstat 1 Reptile Thermostat by Spyder Robotics provides precise temperature regulation for reptile enclosures, breeding racks and incubators. Designed for keepers who value accuracy and reliability, this advanced single-output controller offers significantly more control than a basic on/off thermostat.
Unlike conventional thermostats that repeatedly switch heating equipment between full power and off, the Herpstat 1 uses proportional temperature control. Therefore, it can continuously adjust the amount of heat delivered to maintain your selected temperature.
As a result, the enclosure can experience smaller temperature fluctuations while the heating equipment operates more smoothly.
Furthermore, the Herpstat 1 includes programmable daytime and nighttime settings, temperature alarms and multiple safety features. Consequently, it is an excellent choice for reptile keepers who want dependable temperature management.
Basic on/off thermostats operate by supplying full power until the desired temperature is reached. They then shut off the heating device until the temperature drops enough to restart it.
Although this method works for many applications, it can create noticeable temperature fluctuations.
The Herpstat 1 takes a different approach. Instead, it adjusts the power delivered to compatible heating equipment based on the temperature measured by its probe.
Therefore, the controller can maintain more consistent conditions while reducing unnecessary cycling.
The Herpstat 1 works with many commonly used reptile heating products, including compatible radiant heat panels, heat tape, heat mats and basking lamps.
For example, a keeper using a radiant heat panel in a PVC enclosure can connect the panel to the Herpstat 1 and position the temperature probe at the appropriate control point.
The thermostat then adjusts heating output to maintain the selected temperature.
Similarly, breeders can use the Herpstat 1 to regulate suitable heating equipment in rack systems or incubators.
The Herpstat 1 includes one independently controlled outlet and one sensor connection.
Therefore, it is designed to regulate one temperature zone or one supported control function at a time.
If you need independent temperature control for multiple enclosures or heating zones, consider the Herpstat 2, Herpstat 4 or Herpstat 6.
The Herpstat 1 measures temperature through its connected probe and adjusts output accordingly.
Furthermore, the controller allows temperature settings in tenths of a degree. Therefore, you can fine-tune the target temperature for your enclosure.
However, actual temperature stability also depends on the heating equipment, enclosure insulation, airflow and probe placement.
When compatible heating equipment first activates, the Herpstat can gradually increase the power supplied.
As a result, it reduces abrupt full-power startup conditions that may place additional stress on certain heating devices.
Different enclosures respond to heating equipment in different ways.
For example, a well-insulated PVC enclosure may retain heat more effectively than a highly ventilated glass terrarium.
The Herpstat’s Auto Power Matching feature adjusts its proportional control response to suit the heating system.
Consequently, it can improve temperature regulation without requiring constant manual adjustments.
The Herpstat 1 offers several operating modes. Therefore, you can configure its single output for different compatible applications.
Best for: Compatible radiant heat panels, heat tape, heat mats and dimmable basking lamps.
Dimming mode adjusts the electrical power supplied to the connected heating device.
For example, the controller may reduce output as the enclosure approaches the selected temperature. As a result, the heat source can continue operating at a lower power level instead of repeatedly switching off.
This mode is often preferred when smooth temperature regulation is important.
Best for: Compatible resistive heating equipment, including certain heat tape and rack heating applications.
Pulse mode regulates temperature by varying the duration of powered intervals.
Therefore, it provides proportional control without continuously varying the voltage in the same way as dimming mode.
For example, pulse mode may help reduce audible humming in some metal rack systems.
However, pulse mode is generally not recommended for visible basking lamps because repeated switching can cause flickering.
The Herpstat 1 can also control compatible cooling equipment using an on/off operating mode.
For example, a suitable ventilation fan may activate when the monitored temperature exceeds the programmed threshold.
However, cooling mode does not provide proportional heating control.
The controller can be configured for compatible lighting applications.
Depending on the selected settings, lighting control can provide scheduled operation and gradual lighting transitions.
For example, compatible dimmable incandescent lighting can be used to create a sunrise or sunset effect.
However, fluorescent and other non-dimmable lighting equipment must only be used with appropriate switching modes.
The Herpstat 1 can also support humidity-control functions when configured with a compatible optional humidity sensor.
However, the standard temperature probe cannot measure humidity.
In addition, the Herpstat 1 has only one output. Therefore, it cannot independently regulate temperature and humidity at the same time.
For simultaneous temperature and humidity regulation, consider a multi-output Herpstat controller.
For radiant heat panels and other compatible resistive heating devices, proportional control is generally preferable to a basic on/off thermostat. However, always follow the heating manufacturer’s recommendations and choose the correct control mode. Never connect equipment that is incompatible with dimming or pulse control.
Many reptiles experience natural temperature changes between daytime and nighttime.
Therefore, the Herpstat 1 allows you to program different temperature settings for each period.
Choose a daytime target temperature and a different nighttime target temperature.
For example, a species that benefits from a nighttime temperature reduction can be maintained at a lower programmed setting after the day cycle ends.
However, temperature targets should always reflect the requirements of the species being kept.
Instead of immediately switching between daytime and nighttime temperatures, the Herpstat can gradually transition between the two settings.
As a result, temperature changes can occur more naturally.
Furthermore, the ramping period can be adjusted to suit the desired transition.
Once programmed, the controller follows the selected daily schedule.
Consequently, you do not need to manually change the thermostat setting every morning and evening.
However, after a power interruption, verify the controller’s clock and scheduled operation before relying on automatic day/night transitions.
Temperature control is one of the most important parts of reptile husbandry. Therefore, the Herpstat 1 includes several features designed to help detect equipment problems.
Set a maximum temperature threshold for the monitored area.
If the probe detects a temperature above the selected limit, the thermostat can activate an audible alarm.
As a result, you receive a warning that the enclosure may be overheating.
The Herpstat also supports a low-temperature alarm.
For example, if a heating device fails or the enclosure becomes too cold, the controller can alert you when the measured temperature falls below your selected threshold.
Therefore, you can identify potential heating problems sooner.
The controller monitors its temperature sensor for errors.
If the probe becomes disconnected or fails, the Herpstat automatically disables the controlled output.
Consequently, this feature helps prevent uncontrolled heating caused by a missing or defective sensor.
The Herpstat includes internal safety monitoring and a protective relay system.
Additionally, a user-replaceable fuse provides protection against certain electrical faults.
However, no thermostat eliminates every possible equipment failure. Therefore, regular inspection and independent temperature monitoring remain important.
The controller records high and low temperature readings.
As a result, you can review temperature extremes and identify changes that may occur when you are not directly observing the enclosure.
Always secure the temperature probe so it cannot be moved by the animal. A displaced probe can cause inaccurate readings and unsafe heating conditions. Additionally, use an independent thermometer to verify enclosure temperatures.
PVC enclosures retain heat efficiently. Therefore, a proportional thermostat can help maintain consistent temperatures without excessive heating.
The Herpstat 1 is particularly useful with compatible overhead radiant heat panels and other controlled heat sources.
Radiant heat panels provide overhead heating for many reptile enclosures.
When paired with a compatible proportional thermostat, the panel’s power output can be adjusted to maintain the desired temperature.
As a result, the heating system can respond smoothly to changing enclosure conditions.
Breeding racks commonly use heat tape or other resistive heating equipment.
The Herpstat 1 can regulate a compatible rack heating circuit within its 700-watt limit.
However, one output provides only one control zone. Therefore, multiple racks or zones requiring independent settings need additional thermostat outputs.
Stable incubation temperatures are important for developing reptile eggs.
Consequently, the Herpstat 1 is a useful option for controlling suitable incubator heating equipment.
Furthermore, its temperature alarms and proportional regulation provide additional monitoring capabilities.
Compatible incandescent or halogen basking lamps can be regulated using dimming mode.
For example, the Herpstat can reduce lamp power as the monitored temperature approaches the target.
However, do not use dimming control with mercury vapour lamps, fluorescent fixtures or other equipment that is not specifically compatible.
Place the Herpstat 1 in a secure, dry location outside the reptile enclosure.
Furthermore, keep the controller away from misting systems, condensation and excessive heat.
Connect the included temperature probe to the controller.
Next, position the probe at the appropriate temperature-control location inside the enclosure.
For example, an overhead heat panel installation may require the probe to be mounted below the heating panel.
However, exact placement depends on the enclosure design and heating method.
Secure the probe using an appropriate mounting method.
Consequently, the animal cannot easily displace it or cause inaccurate temperature readings.
For suitable installations, consider a dedicated Herpstat temperature probe mount.
Use the controller menu to select the appropriate operating mode.
For example, choose proportional dimming for compatible heating equipment or pulse mode for suitable resistive heating applications.
However, always verify compatibility before connecting the heating device.
Plug the compatible heating device into the Herpstat’s controlled outlet.
Then, confirm that the total connected load does not exceed 700 watts.
Set the desired temperature using the digital controls.
Next, configure optional nighttime temperature settings and ramping periods if required.
Set appropriate high and low temperature alarm thresholds.
Therefore, the thermostat can alert you when monitored conditions exceed your selected limits.
Allow the enclosure to reach its programmed temperature.
Then, compare the probe reading with an independent thermometer.
Finally, monitor the heating system through several operating cycles before relying on it for unattended operation.
The Herpstat 1 can control many types of reptile heating equipment. However, the correct operating mode depends on the connected device.
The Herpstat 1 is an excellent thermostat option to consider when installing a compatible ReptiRad radiant heat panel.
For example, a 40W, 80W, 125W or 220W ReptiRad panel falls comfortably within the Herpstat 1’s 700-watt electrical capacity.
However, proper probe placement and the correct thermostat mode remain essential.
Not all electrical equipment is suitable for proportional dimming or pulse operation.
For example, fluorescent UVB fixtures, electronic LED drivers and mercury vapour lamps generally require appropriate on/off control rather than proportional dimming.
Therefore, always consult the equipment manufacturer’s instructions before connecting a device.
Sold separately: Heating equipment, additional replacement probes, probe mounting accessories and optional compatible humidity sensors.
Keep a compatible spare temperature probe available for convenient replacement.
Furthermore, the epoxy-sealed steel tip provides fast temperature response and improved water resistance.
Shop Herpstat Replacement Probe
Want to monitor your thermostat through a web browser?
The Herpstat 1 SpyderWeb adds Wi-Fi connectivity, remote monitoring and additional reporting features.
Therefore, it is worth considering if you want to check enclosure conditions from your phone or computer.
Need to control two heating zones independently?
The Herpstat 2 provides two separately configurable outputs.
Consequently, it is a practical upgrade for larger enclosures or multiple heating devices.
The Herpstat 1 is a digital proportional reptile thermostat manufactured by Spyder Robotics. It provides precise temperature control for one heating zone or compatible device.
Yes. It supports both proportional dimming and pulse heating modes. Therefore, it can adjust power output rather than simply switching heat fully on and off.
The Herpstat 1 supports a maximum connected load of 700 watts.
Yes. It can control compatible radiant heat panels, including suitable ReptiRad installations. However, always verify the panel’s electrical requirements and use the correct control mode.
Yes. The Herpstat 1 is suitable for compatible reptile heat tape and rack heating systems.
Yes. Compatible incandescent and halogen basking bulbs can be controlled using proportional dimming. However, do not use dimming with lamps that are not designed for it.
Dimming mode varies the power delivered to the heating device. Meanwhile, pulse mode adjusts the duration of powered intervals. Both provide proportional regulation, but they suit different heating applications.
Yes. You can program separate daytime and nighttime temperatures. In addition, temperature ramping allows gradual transitions between settings.
Yes. It includes programmable high and low temperature alarms with audible warnings.
The controller detects a missing or failed sensor and automatically shuts off its controlled output.
Yes. One compatible temperature probe is included.
Yes. Compatible replacement probes are available separately.
Yes, with a compatible humidity sensor and supported firmware. However, its single output can control temperature or humidity, not both independently at the same time.
The Herpstat 1 has one controlled output and one sensor input. Therefore, it cannot independently regulate two different temperature zones. For separate control, consider the Herpstat 2 or another multi-output model.
No. The standard Herpstat 1 does not include Wi-Fi connectivity. For web-based monitoring, choose the Herpstat 1 SpyderWeb.
Yes. Programmed settings are stored in memory. However, verify the clock and scheduled day/night operation after power is restored.
Spyder Robotics provides a one-year limited manufacturer warranty.
Professional Proportional Temperature Control
700W Output • Dimming & Pulse Modes • Day/Night Programming
Spyder Robotics • Single-Output Digital Thermostat
BOX SIZE DIMENSIONS AND WEIGHTS FOR SHIPPING COSTS ONLY
| Weight | 1.9 lbs |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 8.75 × 8.25 × 2.5 in |
| Brands | Spyder Robotics |
No additional boxes are available for this product.
