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ULTRATHERM Heating Foils Viv Mat – Infrared Warmth for Terrariums and Vivariums
ULTRATHERM Heating Foils Viv Mat – Infrared Warmth for Terrariums and Vivariums
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ULTRATHERM heating films Viv Mat – Infrared Heat for Terrariums and Vivariums
The ULTRATHERM heating films Viv Mat are specially designed infrared heating solutions for terrariums, vivariums, and reptile care. With their long-wave infrared radiation, they produce natural warmth similar to sunlight, optimally absorbed by reptiles – for species-appropriate living conditions and the well-being of your animals.
Unlike conventional heaters, ULTRATHERM heating films do not primarily warm the air but the objects and living beings in the vivarium through infrared C radiation. This long-wave radiation is invisible to the human eye and mimics natural heat absorption in the wild. The surface temperature of the heating mats remains moderate, allowing reptiles to safely sit on or under them.
When is the ULTRATHERM Viv Mat the right choice?
This heating film is especially the right solution when you need species-appropriate base warmth for your terrarium. The long-wave infrared radiation is ideal for ground-dwelling animals that absorb heat from below, as well as for reptiles that like to bask on warm surfaces.
The ULTRATHERM Viv Mat can be installed under the terrarium, on the side walls, or inside. The flexible film design allows versatile installation options and adapts to various terrarium sizes and shapes.
Technical Features and Benefits
ULTRATHERM heating films operate with long-wave infrared C radiation, ensuring even and natural heat distribution. The heat is transferred directly to the objects and animals in the vivarium, resulting in efficient energy use.
The heating films are flat and flexible, allowing discreet installation under or beside the terrarium. The moderate surface temperature prevents burns and allows reptiles safe direct contact with the heat source.
Important Safety Notice: ULTRATHERM heating films should always be operated with a suitable thermostat. For unattended operation, the temperature must be limited with a thermostat probe placed in the center of the heated area. The temperature must not exceed the level required by the respective animal species and must not exceed 60°C.
Available Sizes and Power Levels
The ULTRATHERM Viv Mat is available in various sizes to suit different terrarium dimensions. Choose the appropriate size according to the area to be heated and the heat requirements of your reptiles.
The power of the heating films is matched to the respective size and ensures optimal heat output without overheating. For precise temperature control, we recommend combining with a digital thermostat.
Application recommendations for optimal heating performance
For installation under the terrarium, it is important to ensure sufficient heat dissipation. Consider the height and composition of the substrate on the floor. A substrate layer that is too thick can impair heat transfer, while a layer that is too thin can lead to overheating.
For wall installation, the heating film should be positioned so your reptiles can approach or leave the heat source as needed. Always provide cooler areas in the terrarium so the animals can regulate their body temperature themselves.
Control is ideally done via a thermostat with a temperature sensor that switches the heating film on and off as needed. This ensures constant temperatures and prevents dangerous overheating.
Application Areas
The ULTRATHERM Viv Mat is suitable for various reptiles and amphibians:
- Snakes: Floor heat for pythons, corn snakes, king snakes, and other species
- Lizards: Base heat for bearded dragons, leopard geckos, blue-tongue skinks, and more
- Turtles: Heat source for land turtles and other species
- Amphibians: Temperature control for frogs, salamanders, and newts
- Invertebrates: Heat supply for tarantulas, scorpions, and other terrarium animals
Installation and Mounting
The ULTRATHERM heating films can be installed in various ways:
- Under the terrarium: Classic floor installation for even base warmth
- On the side wall: External installation for lateral heat zones
- Inside the terrarium: Internal installation under substrate or behind back walls (with appropriate insulation)
Connection is made to 230V mains voltage. Installation is straightforward – simply position the heating film and connect it to the thermostat.
Important: When installing under the terrarium, the heating film should not cover the entire floor area, but only 30-50% of the base surface. This allows the animals to choose between warm and cooler zones.
Safety Instructions
Important safety instructions for operation:
- Always operate with a suitable thermostat
- Place temperature sensor in the center of the heated area
- Maximum temperature: 60°C (often lower depending on species)
- Ensure sufficient heat dissipation with underfloor mounting
- Consider substrate thickness and composition
- Never heat the entire floor area – allow a temperature gradient
- Perform regular temperature checks
ULTRATHERM Viv Mat vs. other heating methods
| Criterion | ULTRATHERM Viv Mat | Heating cable | Ceramic heater |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heat distribution | Even | Spot | From above |
| Energy efficiency | High | Medium | Low |
| Installation | Very simple | Complex | Simple |
| Visibility | Invisible | Partially visible | Visible |
| Humidity | Minimal effect | Minimal effect | Strongly drying |
| For ground dwellers | Ideal | Good | Less suitable |
Your benefits at a glance
- Natural warmth: Long-wave infrared radiation similar to sunlight
- Species-appropriate: Reptiles can absorb heat as in nature
- Safe: Moderate surface temperature prevents burns
- Energy efficient: Targeted heat output without unnecessary air warming
- Flexible use: Can be mounted under, beside, or inside the terrarium
- Invisible: Discreet integration without visual impact
- Even heat: No hotspots like with heating cables
- Maintenance-free: Durable design without wear parts
- Easy installation: Quick setup without complicated wiring
Technical specifications
| Product type | Infrared heating foil for terrariums and vivariums |
| Radiation type | Long-wave infrared C radiation |
| Connection | 230V / 50Hz |
| Design | Flexible heating foil |
| Maximum temperature | 60°C (to be limited with thermostat) |
| Installation | Under, beside, or inside the terrarium |
| Thermostat | Required (not included) |
| Suitable for | Reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates |
| Manufacturer | ULTRATHERM |
Optimal temperature zones in the terrarium
For proper care, it is important to create different temperature zones in the terrarium. The ULTRATHERM Viv Mat should only heat part of the floor area so your reptiles can choose between warm and cooler areas.
Recommended temperature zones:
- Warm Zone: Above the heating foil – depending on type 28-35°C
- Middle Zone: Transition area – approx. 24-28°C
- Cool Zone: Unheated areas – approx. 20-24°C
The exact temperatures depend on the needs of your specific animal species. Learn about the optimal care conditions for your reptiles and adjust the thermostat settings accordingly.
Combination with other heat sources
The ULTRATHERM Viv Mat is excellent as a base heat source and can be combined with other heat sources:
- Heat lamps: For additional basking spots and UV supply
- Ceramic heaters: For nighttime warmth without light
- Heat panels: For large-area heat emission from above
This combination allows you to optimally regulate both floor heat and air temperature and create different microclimates in the terrarium.
Energy consumption and operating costs
The ULTRATHERM heating films are energy-efficient because they transfer heat directly through infrared radiation and do not need to heat the entire air volume. Combined with a thermostat, the heater only activates when needed, further reducing electricity consumption.
Actual energy consumption depends on several factors:
- Size and power of the heating film
- Desired target temperature
- Room temperature and terrarium insulation
- Substrate thickness and type
- Thermostat setting and control behavior
Due to targeted heat output and thermostat-controlled operation, operating costs are significantly lower than with continuously running heat lamps or ceramic heaters.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to operate the heating film with a thermostat?
Yes, absolutely. A thermostat is essential to prevent overheating and ensure constant temperatures. Without a thermostat, the temperature can become dangerously high and endanger your animals.
Where do I place the thermostat’s temperature sensor?
The temperature sensor should be placed in the middle of the heated area, ideally at the height where your animals stay. For floor installation, directly on the substrate above the heating film.
Can I cut the heating film?
No, the ULTRATHERM heating films must not be cut, as this would damage the heating elements and could cause malfunctions or fire hazards. Choose the right size for your terrarium.
What percentage of the floor area should be heated?
30-50% of the floor area is recommended. This allows your reptiles to choose between warm and cooler areas for thermoregulation. Heating the entire floor area is not species-appropriate.
Can I install the heating film under the substrate in the terrarium?
Yes, it is possible but requires special care. The heating film must be protected from moisture, and the substrate should not be too thick to avoid heat buildup. Outdoor mounting under the terrarium is generally safer and easier.
Is the heating film waterproof?
The ULTRATHERM Viv Mat is not designed for direct contact with water. When used in humid terrariums, the heating film should be mounted outside the terrarium or properly protected.
Which thermostat is suitable?
All thermostats for terrariums with temperature sensor and sufficient switching capacity are suitable. We recommend digital thermostats with precise temperature control and easy-to-read displays.
Scope of delivery
Included in delivery:
- ULTRATHERM heating film Viv Mat in chosen size
- 200cm connection cable with power plug
- Safety instructions and user manual
Not included:
- Thermostat (sold separately – highly recommended)
- Temperature sensor (usually included with the thermostat)
Recommended accessories
For optimal operation of the ULTRATHERM Viv Mat, we recommend the following accessories:
- Digital thermostat: For precise temperature control and automatic regulation
- Thermometer: To check temperatures in different terrarium zones
- Hygrometer: To monitor humidity levels
- Insulation mat: Use when mounting on cold surfaces to prevent heat loss
Care and maintenance
ULTRATHERM heating films are maintenance-free and require no regular upkeep. For a long service life, please observe:
- Protect heating film from moisture
- Do not bend or fold
- Do not place heavy objects directly on the film
- Regularly monitor temperatures
- If mounted outdoors, occasionally check for dirt
- Check connection cables for damage
When used properly, the ULTRATHERM Viv Mat offers a long service life and reliable heat supply for your terrarium animals.
Consultation and support
Are you unsure which size or power is best suited for your terrarium? Our expert team is happy to advise you on selecting the optimal heating solution for your specific needs and animal species.
We help you with questions about:
- Choosing the right size heating film
- Optimal placement in the terrarium
- Combination with other heat sources
- Thermostat selection and settings
- Species-specific temperature requirements
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