best heat mat for leopard gecko/ heating pad for gecko/ heating mat for leopard gecko/ leopard gecko heating pad

If you’re having difficulties maintaining the temperature range your leopard gecko needs to live a healthy and active life, consider using a heating pad or heat mat. Leopard geckos benefit greatly from these devices’ mild and consistent heat, which are attached to the bottom of aquariums or cages.

The best heat mat for leopard geckos should cover slightly more than half of the floor space in your pet’s habitat and is solely created for reptiles.

To make sure you choose the best heating pad for your gecko, we’ve investigated the finest reptile heating mats on the market and selected the top ones based on their features, wattage, and size. Keep reading to learn more.

The Top-Rated Heating Pads for Leopard Geckos

Here are the top heating pads for leopard geckos:

iPower Reptile Heat Pad

The iPower Reptile Heat Pad has three functions in mind: moisture resistance, heat transfer, and sticky grip. The moisture-resistant and water-resistant design means the pad can handle wet conditions without any issues.

Additionally, the heating film maximizes the heat transfer, so your leopard gecko gets the most effective heating possible.

Lastly, the firm grip ensures that the pad stays in place, even when your gecko is moving around. With all these features combined, you can rest assured that your leopard gecko will stay comfortable and warm while using this heat pad.

Pros

• Transfers heat evenly
• Comes in four sizes
• Easy to clean
• Highly adhesive

Cons

• Pricier than other brands

PeSandy Reptile Heating Pad

The PeSandy reptile heat mat is a simple and effective way to provide your pet with the additional heat it requires. The sturdy design of the pad produces even, consistent heating, suitable for reptiles, including geckos, turtles, tortoises, snakes, and lizards.

The pad can be placed on the side or underneath the enclosure for your pet. It can also be put on the side or underneath the tank or vivarium for breeding geckos.

The pad has a low power consumption switch regulation to prevent overheating and is waterproof for wet environments. The heating pad also produces even heat dissipation for your pet, so they will always receive the optimum temperature.

Pros

• Provides extra heat for reptiles
• It’s easy to install
• It’s waterproof
• Low power consumption
• Works well even in hot environments

Cons

• Doesn’t show the temperature range, so you have to use a thermometer to know what temperature the pad is in

Tikaton Reptile Heat Pad

The Tikaton Reptile Heat Pad stands out from the competition because of its high-quality construction and long service life. This pad is a great option if you’re providing supplemental heat to your reptile’s enclosure or just want to keep them warm during colder months.

The heat pad is perfect for reptiles who need a warm spot to keep them warm without disrupting their daily activity or sleep patterns.

The heat pad also employs a solid-state nichrome heating element that consumes only watts of power, which makes it an energy-saving option. Additionally, the heat pad has high efficiency, steady performance, and long service life.

It features a soft, flexible surface that is easy to clean and fits perfectly in most reptile tanks. In addition, this heat pad is easy to clean and portable, making it an ideal option for those who travel with their reptiles.

The Tikaton Reptile Heat Pad is a great option for reptile owners who want to make their pets more comfortable. This heat pad is easy to use and versatile, making it a great choice for anyone who owns a reptile.

Pros

• Provides even heat distribution to your pet reptiles
• Sturdy design that is safe for pets
• Low power consumption
• Waterproof
• Easy to install and use
• Comes in various sizes to best fit your pet’s enclosure

Cons

• The pad has a very limited range of regulation (0-35 degrees Celsius)

Aiicioo Reptile Heating Pad

Many reptile owners who use this heating pad praise its efficiency, especially when it comes to leopard geckos. The Aiicioo reptile heating pad can be used with various reptiles, from the tiniest leopard geckos to the biggest reptiles like Komodo dragons.

One feature that makes it stand out is the adhesive strip that’s incredibly durable, making it easy to glue it to the bottom of your reptile tank without worrying about the adhesive losing its effectiveness.

The rubber feet help elevate the heater above the ground, making it more effective and easier to use. Another brilliant feature is the heater, that’s designed to be waterproof and easy to clean, making it a hassle-free solution for your reptile needs.

Pros

• It has a strong adhesive for easier installation
• Offers uniform heating without hot spots
• It can be mounted on the bottom or side

Cons

• It lacks temperature controls

Fluker’s Premium Heat Mat for Reptiles

The Fluker’s Premium Heat is a medium-sized heater that effectively raises the temperature in your leopard gecko’s tank to 105⁰F. The heater is easy to move around and can be placed on the outer bottom or side of the tank, depending on your heating preference.

The mat’s surface does not have an adhesive back, so you can easily tape it to the glass, where it will stay in place. This heater took six hours to reach its maximum operating temperature. Despite this short time frame, it was able to raise the core and perimeter of the substrate by an inch under a thin layer.

Although this heat mat has some drawbacks, like its thin construction, it is one of the most affordable and reliable options available on the market for those who are looking for a small, low-cost heated terrarium system for their leopard gecko. The low price means it lacks advanced features like a digital thermostat and is not waterproof.

Pros

• It’s a great option for 20 – 30-gallon tanks
• It’s easy to remove and reposition
• It heats up at a steady temperature of 105 degrees
• Easy to clean and maintain

Cons

• It lacks a thermostat like expensive models
• Very thin design
• Must be secured with packing tape

Zilla Large Heat Map

The Zilla Large Heat Mat is perfect for tanks between 30 to 50 gallons. It contains an automated safety shut-off, a heat output range of 85°F to 113°F, and adhesive backing for simple installation.

The largest pad on our list, spanning, is the perfect size for horizontal tanks. With no temperature changes or drops, this heater excels at maintaining a constant, high temperature.

Although 105°F is the average, because of its carbon fiber construction, it may achieve a maximum temperature of °F.

Additionally, if the temperature rises above 113°F, an automatic safety shut-off is built in. In contrast to nichrome or alloy heating elements, carbon fiber elements don’t need wires inside the heater. This indicates that it cannot be crushed or broken while being installed.

It is, nevertheless, a little thicker than other heaters due to the carbon fiber element. Unfortunately, Zilla’s glue is not strong enough to support such a massive heater.

We had to tape it up to strengthen it. Despite some adhesion issues, users heartily endorse this heater. It is a top-notch heating pad that can efficiently produce heat in larger 50-gallon tanks between 85°F and 113°F.

Pros

• It’s great for 30 – 50-gallon tanks
• Does not have internal wires that can be broken
• Automatic safety shut-off above 113 degrees

Cons

• Does not come with a thermostat

Vivosun Reptile Heating Pad

If you are looking for a reptile heating pad that can keep your pet warm and healthy, the Vivosun Reptile Heating Pad is a great option. This leopard gecko heat mat has been updated with new adhesive materials that reduce the chances of melting and separation, and it has a temperature holding capacity of up to 113⁰F.

It measures 8″ by 12″ and has a six-foot cord and a 120 V. Before attaching the leopard gecko heat mat to the bottom of the tank with double-sided tape, make sure to switch it on and give it some time to warm up. The mat heats up quickly and is incredibly simple to use and clean while providing excellent energy economy.

Vivosun offers a 3-year guarantee which shows just how the manufacturer trusts its product. If the heater fails before the end of this period, you just need to contact the company with your order ID.

Pros

• Heat up quickly
• Durably made with adhesive materials
• It can heat up to 113 degrees
• Comes with a 3-year moneyback guarantee

Cons

• Some customers are not confident with the accuracy of the thermostat

Wuhostam Reptile Heating Pad

The WUHOSTAM Reptile Heating Pad is a great choice for leopard geckos because of its favorable effects on the environment.

It is simple to adjust to the perfect desired temperature in just a few minutes, and there is no need to worry about its safety or control due to the US standard plug and voltage, as well as the improved heating film and insulation layer.

The Wuhostam heat mat is arguably the best choice if you’re looking for a flexible device that can be placed anywhere you want, from the inside to the outside or even under the tank. Simply place this item inside your tank with a layer of sand on top to protect your loved one from direct contact.

The manufacturer recommends visual inspection for the first few days after installation to ensure it’s functioning properly. It’s ideal for different reptile lizards.

Pros

• It’s flexible and versatile
• It’s simple to install and use
• It has no heating film to boost heat transfer
• Easy to clean

Cons

• Does not include a thermostat

Forliver Reptile Pet Heating Pad

Looking for a top-quality tank heater for leopard geckos? Look no further than the Forliver reptile pet heating pad! This product not only has a great design, but it is also very affordable.

Additionally, this heat pad can be used with a standard US plug and voltage, so you don’t have to waste money on an adaptor.

Another nifty feature of the Forliver Reptile pad is the waterproof design to ensure your leopard gecko stays dry. It’s also equipped with a temperature controller that offers constant heat.

Moreover, the coverage area of the enclosure while applying Forliver should be no more than one-third of the base area.

So, if your leopard gecko’s tank is smaller than this, you may still be able to use the heat pad without any problems. If you’re in the market for an under-tank heater for your leopard gecko, don’t miss out on this great option from Forliver!

Pros

• It keeps the temperature stable and constant
• It’s moisture-proof for comfort
• It saves energy
• Affordable price with no adapter needed

Cons

• The temperature output lacks a dial or notches, so there’s a risk of burning your pet

BN-Link Reptile Pad

The BN-Link Reptile Pad is a top product for leopard geckos and other small animals. The heat pad can be used at home or on the go and is durably built to last.

There are two sizes to choose from depending on the size of your gecko’s enclosure. This 6×8″ model is suitable for terrariums not larger than 20 gallons. The unit supplies a steady heat of between 104 degrees to 122 degrees Fahrenheit.

The medium size is preferable for smaller tanks, and there is also the option of the small size if that’s what you need. What makes the pad outstanding is the premium thermal wire that quickly heats up your pet’s cage to a comfortable temperature.

You can control your pet’s comfort level in various weather conditions using a temperature controller with different levels.

The pad is easy to set up right from the box because you stick it wherever you want, whether at the bottom or the sides. It’s energy-efficient because the heating wire and insulation use just 8 watts to save on electricity.

Pros

• It saves on space
• Has a quick heating time
• It’s waterproof
• Easy to clean

Cons

• It’s a bit pricey

Factors to consider when choosing the best leopard gecko heating pads

Wattage

When choosing the best heating pads for Leopard Geckos, remember their wattage and tank size.

Heating pads with a wattage of four or lower will work well for tanks up to 10 gallons in size, while larger tanks will need more wattage.

For example, a 24-watt pad is a great choice for a 50-gallon tank. Depending on your tank size and reptile needs, you can find the appropriate pad in the reviews above.

Tank size

When considering a heating pad for your Leopard Gecko, keep the following in mind: Size of the Tank. Heating pads come in all sizes, from incredibly modest to significantly larger ones. Naturally, the larger pads tend to be stronger and produce more heat.

Small pads that can nevertheless produce high temperatures are also available. Look for a cushion that will fit your tank and is the proper size.

You don’t want it so big that it covers up your Leopard Gecko or so small that it does not provide enough warmth.

It’s best to err on caution and choose a smaller pad if your tank doesn’t hold much heat or a larger one if you have a heavier-bodied gecko.

Ease of installation

Ease of installation is a major factor when looking for the right heating pad. Many pads include some form of adhesive that enables them to be attached to the side or bottom of the tank.

While some pads have dependable and strong adhesives, others may be relatively weak and come off after only a few days or weeks of use. Selecting a pad with an adhesive that will hold up well in the long run, is important.

Temperature Controls

One of the most important is whether or not the pad has temperature control dials and systems. This allows you to control directly how hot the pad gets, which can be helpful if you want to give your lizard a specific temperature range to live in.

If the pad you’ve picked lacks controls, it will simply heat to a particular point and remain there. Installing a thermostat to track and regulate the temperature separately can cost you extra money and effort.

Efficiency

Some heat pads use less energy than others by a significant margin, meaning they can run for a longer period without using excessive energy or money.

In addition to saving you money on your heating expenses, using an efficient heating pad is usually better for the environment and the pad’s overall design.

Thermostat

When choosing a heating pad for your leopard gecko, be sure to consider whether or not it comes with a thermostat. Many pads don’t have them and reach a certain temperature and stay there.

This doesn’t give you great control over the cage’s ambient temperature, which can be problematic if you want to keep your gecko warm but not too hot.

To get good control over the temperature, you should invest in a separate thermostat or buy one that comes with one.

However, most pads without thermostats are much cheaper, so if this is your only heat source, budget isn’t as important as other factors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best temperature to set for a leopard gecko?

The right temperature for leopard geckos falls between 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit.

Should I use a heating pad or a heat lamp for a leopard gecko?

It depends, a heating pad is preferable if you want to belly-heat the gecko.

How do I choose the right mat size for my leopard gecko?

The size of the pad you choose will depend on the size of the enclosure but in general, it should not cover over 1/3 of the bottom area.

How much wattage is ideal for a heating pad?

It depends on the tank size. Generally, the bigger the pad, the more wattage. A 4W heat pad is ideal for a 10-gallon tank, while an 8-watt pad is ideal for 20 gallons. A 16W pad should be enough for a 30-40-gallon enclosure. Larger tanks of up to 60 gallons can work with a 24W heat pad.

Where should heat pads be placed in the tank?

A heating pad should be attached under the bottom or side of the glass tank. The pad can be placed inside the tank for wooden enclosures due to poor heat transfer. Whenever you place the heat pad inside the tank, do not place it directly under the gecko. Any direct contact can lead to burns. There should be a substrate underneath.

How long do I need to turn on the heat map?

It should be on 24/7. However, ensure a thermostat to monitor and adjust the temperature accordingly.