Equipment Review and Discussion :: Thermometers...

[Lithgow]

More new turtle owner questions...
1. Are those inexpensive "stick on the glass" thermometers ok for measuring water temp? They do go on the outside of the glass, don't they?
2. To measure the temp for the basking area, do you just lay the thermometer directly on it, or does it need to be shaded from the direct light?
3. I have a small digital therm. with a probe that I could use which has suction cups to stick to the side; any suggestions on where to place it?
Thanks again for all the great advice on this site!

[megcornell]

The stick on thermometers are not the most accurate, if you have one, it's fine to use as a rough estimate, but I'd use the digital thermometer as well. That way you can double check the temps. You can place the digital thermometer probe anywhere in the tank water. The stick on ones do go on the outside of the tank, you're right.
As for measuring basking temperature, measure the temp in the light, as that's where the turtles will be, they won't be shaded.

[steve]

1 - The stick on types are fairly reliable, but room temperature can lead to slightly inaccurate readings. Yes, they go on the outside.

2 - It goes directly underneath and I have it raised to where the top of the shell would be. I use an empty paper cup, some use a rock.

3 - You can put it between the filter and heater... though I've learned not to trust digital thermometers too much.

[FLhaven4strays]

I use a cheap suction cup glass thermometer both in the water & on the basking area. I know there is a risk of it breaking, but haven't had problems w/ it so far. The one on the basking area I have secured in a place that it can't be knocked 'overboard'

[mikee]

Litgo -- The stick ons have gotten a little more accurate in the past few years however they are not accurate enough when you want to raise your temp from 78 to 80. I use a digital read out with a probe and I can check on the tank when I just walk by. Thanks goodness, as I had a heater wander around from 75 and below and 80 degrees and above. If I had not had it my poor turtles may have had to endure temps from 70 to 80 and above. In past years I have glass thermometers break. Good Luck