A method for the temperature control and/or regulation of a heating device (10) for preforms (46) made from a thermoplastic material, the method being intended for controlling the temperature of the preforms (46) prior to a subsequent blow molding or stretch blow molding process. The temperature control process includes at least two distinct, consecutive heating stages (12, 14). At least one temperature reading of the preforms after the first heating stage is taken, and deviations of the at least one temperature reading from a specified set point temperature is determined, a first temperature reading of the at least one temperature reading being taken after the first heating stage. Radiators in the second heating stage are regulated or adjusted as a function of the first temperature reading and temperature deviations of the preforms from the specified set point temperature are compensated for prior to exit of the preforms from the heating device. The invention further includes a heating device for performing the method.