Lots of ways to do it......everyone just uses what works for them and what they're most comfortable with using.
Different devices can't really be analyzed by their wattage output alone, most have thermostats so ambient temps came into play as does insulation and placement of vessel.
I've got...
Well if you read all the posts...some folks' don't get that hot, but it could so you have have to check yours to see how it feels.
I'm a firephobe, having had an apartment fire before, so am extremely cautious when it comes to things that could start fires.
Better safe than sorry I say.
The waterer might not catch fire but it might cause a fire!!
It should definitely not be sitting on shavings...I mean that's just common sense, plus how would you keep it level on a pile of shavings??<scratching head hard>
Putting it up on a level concrete block so the rim of waterer is top...