Iguana Heaters

Wow, you chose a big topic - be prepared to take notes as there is a lot to learn about iguana heaters.

There are loads of different types of iguana heaters that we could discuss, but here to keep things simple we'll only cover 3 different types.

Why only 3?

Because these 3 main iguana heaters are the ones used by 90%+ of all knowledgeable iguana keepers, and for good reason.

They're simply the most efficient, cost effective way of heating an iguana cage. Other methods are simply too expensive or don't do the job properly.

These 3 types of iguana heaters we're going to discuss are...

• Light Bulbs

• Ceramic Bulbs

• Heat Mats

OK, I just told you a little bit of a porkie.

You see, whilst lots of people do use light bulbs they can work out really expensive over a short period of time.

I also think they just look a little "amateurish" for my liking, for people who don't know about the other iguana heaters available.

They will do the job, but like all the methods described on this page except heat mats, you must take three precautions when using them.

These are non-negotiable for the safety of your iguana.

The first of these is to use a wire cover to protect the heater. Except for heat mats, all these heaters get so hot that you or your iguana could easily your yourselves on it if you touch it.

Indeed, there really have been cases of iguanas climbing up their cages and literally barbecuing themselves as they climb onto the heater without knowing any better.

Not funny!

So either buy a proper heater guard or make your own from wire mesh. The specially-made prebuilt ones are most highly recommended.

The next proviso is to use a thermostat to keep the heat under control. Yes, iguanas like it hot, but not so hot their enzymes start to break down and they literally start to die.

There are several different thermostats available, but if you click on the following link you'll be taken to a page showing the thermostat I use myself for my reptiles... here it is, iguana lovers!.

Thirdly and finally is to purchase a simple thermometer to regularly check the temperature in your iguana cage to ensure it isn't too hot or too cold.

Indeed, 2 thermometers, one at each end works best so you can check the hottest and coolest parts fo the cage at the same time.

So now you know... ;-)

The next type of iguana heaters I'm going to cover is the ceramic bulb which is a very efficient heater which provides excellent heat.

They are economical to run and go on and on for years.

They are a very good idea indeed, the only downside I've come across is that some of them need to be hung from the ceiling of the cage and so may be slimbed on by your igauna.

However, the last 2 types of heaters, in combination, provides what I think is the best all-round setup and is what I suggest you start off with.

The ceramic bulb is tough, powerful and easy to attach just about anywhere in your iguana cage. You can fit them to the ceiling of the tank like normal or on the side if you prefer.

They provide a broad circle of heat so it is a piece of cake to "aim" it where you'd like the heat most - wherever you fancy creating a basking spot for Iggy.

Couldn't be any easier, and they screw into place easily and quickly, which of course works perfectly with our wooden iguana cage.

To take a look at some ceramic bulbs, please click here.

For some general background heat such as during the night when the ceramic will be turned off, or even during the day as the trough provides such "direct" heat, a low-wattage heat pad should be provided.

These things cost next to nothing to run (literally a couple of cents a day for most of them), are water resistant, cheap to buy, hard wearing. You name it.

So combine your ceramic bulb and your heat mat and I think you're in safe hands.

Iguana Supplies Including advice and links on buying iguana pet clothing, iguanas baths, iguana heaters, iguana furniture, green iguana cages and what to look for in an iguana cage, popular lighting setups such as the zoo med iguana light, pvc iguana cage pictures, how to choose an iguana harness, and even some cheap items for iguanas.