Exo Terra PTC Self Regulating Heat Mat PT2031

The Exo Terra PTC Self Regulating Heat Mat uses carbon fibre PTC heating technology to deliver uniform conductive heat across the base of a vivarium or terrarium. Available in four sizes to suit enclosures of different scale, this range works as either a primary or secondary heat source for reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates — and is particularly well suited as a reliable nighttime heat source where overhead lighting is off.

PTC Carbon Fibre Technology

PTC (Positive Temperature Coefficient) carbon fibre heating eliminates concentrated hotspots by distributing heat evenly across the mat's surface. This uniform warmth supports proper thermoregulation, which in turn benefits metabolism, appetite, digestion, and general activity levels. The technology also includes a built-in self-regulating maximum temperature and an automatic fail-safe mechanism, adding a meaningful layer of safety over conventional heat mats.

Energy Efficiency

The carbon fibre element achieves an electrothermal conversion efficiency exceeding 95%, meaning the vast majority of energy drawn is converted directly into usable heat. This makes the mat an efficient heat source relative to its wattage, with rapid warm-up from cold helping to stabilise enclosure temperatures quickly.

Use With a Thermostat

Although the mat's PTC design provides a degree of self-regulation, Viperia strongly recommends pairing it with a thermostat for accurate temperature control. A thermostat ensures the heat mat responds correctly to enclosure conditions and prevents the risk of overheating, particularly when the mat is used beneath a substrate.

Installation and Placement

The mat permanently adheres to the outside base of the terrarium, forming a direct bond for optimal heat transfer into the enclosure. Rubber spacers are included to allow slight airflow where required. It is important to position the mat so that only a portion of the floor area is heated — animals must always have access to a cooler area of the enclosure to regulate their own body temperature effectively.

Combining Heat Sources

Conductive heat from the mat pairs well with radiant infrared heat from a basking bulb overhead. This combination allows reptiles to select from a fuller range of temperatures and body-warming methods, supporting more natural thermoregulatory behaviour and healthier digestion.

This range is available in four sizes, from compact options suited to small setups through to larger mats for bigger enclosures — select the size appropriate for your vivarium from the variant options above. If you are unsure which wattage or size is right for your setup, the Viperia team is happy to advise.