Condensation

[suckrpnch]

Quick question:

I've got a ball python in a 20 gal aquarium with one of those wood boards for a lid and repti-bark substrate. This is all a setup I picked up for free off a kid that didnt want to take care of his snake anymore. The lid has warped slightly on one side and leaves what I would guess to be a 1/8 inch gap. My problem is that I am getting pretty bad condensation covering about 3/4 of the tanks sides. I've tried baking the reptibark and replacing, wiping the sides, different placement of the water dish etc. The substrate itself does not seem to even be damp exept along the edges where some water runs down. The humidity gauge stays between 60-70% and the temp range is between 78-85 degrees. I've never used this type of lid before and was wondering if I bought/built a new one if I would have the same problem or should I change something. I know aquariums alone are not great for ventilation and I certainly cant see how this type of lid helps. Any suggestions?

Sorry it took so much space to ask such a simple question. Great site by the way.

thanks in advance

[sSNAKESs.com]

You should replace that lid with a screen lid most definatly, or one of those wire lids... You are getting condensation because there is no air leaving the tank, or not enough... Pick up a commercial screen lid made for a 20 gallon, should only cost you around 20$ or so...

[suckrpnch]

thanks for the reply.

I already picked up a screen lid and fixed the problem right up. I've just got to play a little to get the temps to even back out and I'll be set.

Thanks again

[sSNAKESs.com]

You might also want to try a undertank heater... Exoterra makes great ones for use under a aquarium... just place it 1/3 under the tank or even a little more and set it up so it gives you a 88 - 92 degree hot spot... if you do it this way the ambient air temperature wont be high at all and the snake still has its warm spot for thermoregulating... IMO it also uses less electricity.. 13watts as compared to a 60 - 100 watt light bulb... You can pick one up for around 20$ aswell...

[suckrpnch]

I've got a UTH under one side of the tank which according to the really cheap plastic thermometer stays between 90-90 degrees on the ground. The other side can get as cool as 75-78 degrees. I'm honestly not sure what the ambient air temp is since my only thermometers are on the ground. Maybe I've been misunderstanding something for the last couple years... Is the ground temp the only thing that really matters that much. ex: If by some way the ground temp was 85-90 degrees and the air temp was 60, this would be ok??? That doesnt sound like a good thing to me but maybe I'm just a little mixed up ( I am at work ).

Oh well.. Thanks for all the info so far.