A thermostat cycles power on and off for a heating element based on the temperature that it is sensing from that element. This type of control is commonly used to regulate the temperature in your home. A rheostat is a common control used on lights. It reduces the voltage going to the appliance, which serves to turn it down. These types of controls are not economically feasible when being used to control foodwarming elements; however, they are commonly used to dim light bulbs. An infinite control cycles power on and off for a heating element based on a timing cycle that is not influenced by the actual heat that is being put off by the element. This type of control is commonly used to control elements on electric ranges.