Potentiometers and rheostats are variable resistors in which the wiper terminals take the form of a dial or slider that the user does manipulate, such as the volume control of a radio or music system.

While both form or use a voltage divider, their functions and uses are very different. Potentiometers as described in this article are variable resistors used to control small amounts of electrical ...

This is a rheostat, or Speed Control for your fireplace blower fan. It allows you to control the speed of any fan. Variable Speed Electric Motor Control for fireplace fan / fireplace blower kit ...