Some questions... flexwatt, cooling, etc.

[Dirty]

I'm going to start putting together a breeding collection of ball pythons. I'm getting tubs that are 31"Lx17"Wx13"T which I plan on using 11"x12" flexwatt to heat. Is this enough heat tape? Are the shorter tubs better for containing heat for the snakes? Also, when cooling pythons, is it as simple as turning the temperature of the heat tape down? Or is there more to it than that? I've done some searches, but can't quite find this specific info. Thanks in advance

[smeagel]

If your going to be breeding your bps (which would be the only reason for cooling) I would suggest getting the "Ball Pyhton Breeding Video" by Dr. Mark Seward. There is tons of great info in it. The 11" heat tape is good, but be sure to hook it up to a temp. control device.

[Dirty]

I have that video already thanks, it didn't really say much about heat tape. I also already have a female. How big of a portion of the tub should have heat tape under it? 1/3? And yes, I will be buying some good rheostats.

[smeagel]

yes, 1/3 is good, some people even use 4" heat tape. I am using roof de-icing cable hooked up to a Helix until my heat tape comes in, and it works great.

[mykee]

1/4 to 1/3.

[BP-R-US]

I am using 4 inch heat tape in my new rack till the 1 foot heat tape comes in, and it just isn't enough to get the heat up to just perfect. My bins are almost the same size as yours. They are just 6 inchs high not 13 inchs. I also have it hooked up to a helix, a must for good heat support.

[Dirty]

I've changed my mind i'm getting 24"x16"x6. Would a 4 inch piece of heat tape be enough?

[BP-R-US]

I have never used that size, so I wouldn't know for sure, but I would have to guess no. You can always go 2 rows of 4' tape, unless you go longways along the back and do more then a foot, but then you might not have enough room for a cold and warm side. I would recomend you go with the 11' tape and you'll be much happier. Trust !

[Dirty]

Yeah I figgered it out im gonna get the 11" and put 8 of those inches on the bottom and the other 3 going up the side. Make a nice little hot spot.

[Dirty]

How about the cooling do I just turn down the heat tape?

[smeagel]

Cooling for bredding?

[Dirty]

no, breeding;)

[smeagel]

smart ***! :P

well, Helix has a night time temp drop, but I also turn down my room temp as well.

[Dirty]

Lol sorry man I tried to resist, but my will is weak....

I'm going to rephrase this into a yes or no question for those who don't mind. When it comes time to begin cooling (for breeding) do i just set my heat tape to a lower temperature (day and night) than normal for the cool period?

[Dirty]

???Where'd you guys go???

One more...
Would the heat tape work better runnunig down the back of the tubs (on the outside) or on the bottom? If I can get these last two questions answered I'll be all set:). Thanks

[smeagel]

I run mine along the bottom, definatly on the outside of the tub

[Dirty]

Thanks smeagel

Can anyone answer my cooling question?