{"product_id":"et-ptc-self-regulating-heat-mat-4w-18x10cm-pt2031","title":"Exo Terra PTC Self Regulating Heat Mat 4W 18x10cm PT2031","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe ET PTC Self Regulating Heat Mat is a carbon fibre PTC heating mat designed to deliver uniform conductive heat across the vivarium floor, replicating the warmth of sun-heated substrate. Sized at 18x10cm and rated at 4W, this is a compact heat source suited to small terrariums housing reptiles, amphibians, or invertebrates where a reliable belly-heat source is needed around the clock.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003ePTC Carbon Fibre Heating Technology\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003ePTC (Positive Temperature Coefficient) carbon fibre construction means the mat is inherently self-regulating — as it reaches its maximum temperature, resistance increases and heat output is automatically reduced. This built-in fail-safe mechanism eliminates concentrated hotspots and delivers consistent, even warmth across the entire mat surface, making it significantly safer than conventional resistance-wire mats. Electrothermal conversion efficiency exceeds 95%, meaning very little energy is wasted.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eThermoregulation for Reptiles, Amphibians and Invertebrates\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eConductive belly heat is essential for proper thermoregulation in many species. It directly supports metabolism, appetite, digestion, and general activity levels — particularly important for species that rely on substrate warmth rather than ambient air temperature. This mat creates the warm end of a thermal gradient; always ensure a cooler area remains accessible so animals can regulate their body temperature as needed.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003ePrimary or Secondary Heat Source\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis mat functions as a 24-hour heat source and is well suited as either a primary or secondary option depending on the species being kept. It is particularly useful as a nighttime heat source when overhead lighting and basking lamps are off. For daytime setups, pairing it with an infrared-A basking lamp allows animals to benefit from both conductive and radiant heat simultaneously, supporting more complete thermoregulation.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eInstallation\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePermanently adheres to the terrarium base for a solid bond and optimal heat transfer\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRubber spacers included to allow slight air gap where required\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRated at 4W, sized 18x10cm — suitable for small enclosures\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch3\u003eUse with a Thermostat\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eAlthough the PTC technology provides a degree of self-regulation, using this mat with a compatible thermostat is strongly recommended. A thermostat gives you precise control over surface temperature, protects your animals from overheating, and ensures consistent conditions regardless of ambient room temperature fluctuations.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA well-placed heat mat paired with a reliable thermostat is one of the most straightforward ways to maintain the stable thermal environment that reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates need to thrive.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Peregrine","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54147632300369,"sku":"HHM104","price":18.74,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0963\/0403\/8225\/files\/HHM104_1.jpg?v=1782596665","url":"https:\/\/viperia.co.uk\/products\/et-ptc-self-regulating-heat-mat-4w-18x10cm-pt2031","provider":"Viperia UK","version":"1.0","type":"link"}