QP - before anyone can really answer with good advise - where are you? How many chicks are you getting?
Folks in California would have different requirements from those in a colder state.
I personally use a ceramic heat bulb - used for reptiles. it creates no LIGHT, just warmth.
After the first week in the house, I start to turn the heat off during the day for longer and longer periods, our house stays at around 70 during the day - when they seem cold, I turn their heat on..... my baby chicks are almost 5 weeks old, and no longer have any supplimental heat.
I only have four babies, but in greater numbers, they keep each other warm to a certain extent as well.