distance from RHP to perch?

pdomensis · 04-03-14, 07:47 AM

I've finally begun work on my permanent enclosure for my Bredl's, 4' high and 39" wide by 2' deep. I'm starting to work on the insides now; background, vents, etc and I'm about to mount the climbing branch/basking spot. I don't have my RHP yet so I'm looking for some advice on ballpark distances from the RHP to the basking spot so I get the perch in the right place. It will be an 80 watt, haven't decided on the make yet. I'm assuming anywhere around 12 to 18 inches would be good, but wanted to check before I do anything too permanent. Thanks!

sharthun · 04-03-14, 08:10 AM

I know with my 40 watt Rhp's 12 inches is a good distance. My t10's are 15inches high, so with 2 to 3 inches substrate i'm right at 12 inches. Work great btw. Higher wattage you can go further away.

From RBI's RHP FAQ: You have probably read this already.

Which size do I need?

We have tested the 40 watt panel in several 2'x4' cage designs including our own PVC and various thicknesses of plywood. Participants in this test have also included ARBREPTILES (Clay Davenport), Boamaster (Mark Venhorst) and other private breeders. We have all reached pretty much the same guidelines.

In a 2x4 cage that is 12" tall or less in a room temp of 75° F+ you will see good results with the 40 watt RHP. The taller the cage the more likely you will want to set up basking sites that are elevated and closer to the RHP to give your animals a gradient. Generally taller cages 18" or taller are set up for arboreal use so this is not a problem. If your room temp is lower than 74 F or your cage is 12"+ you may want to move up to the 80 watt.

Cages less than 2'x4' will generally work well with the 40 watt panel. Once again, height and room temp is a determining factor. We have had very good success with several Ball Python keepers in the Northern parts of the US using the 80 watt panel in our 2x3 cages. While normally a bit much for this size cage we have found this combination to work very well in the cooler room temps often found in these areas with the higher temp requirements of these snakes. Make sure you use a thermostat!

If your cage falls into the 2'x4' or 2'x6' range you will want to upgrade to the 80 watt panel. The 120 watt panel is for generally for larger cages 2'x6' or larger, open air enclosures or cool room temperatures. The 160 watt panel is intended for 6' and 8' cages. When in doubt you can move to the next higher wattage, just make sure you use that thermostat!

pdomensis · 04-04-14, 07:03 AM

I had read that and it's how I decided on an 80w. I think I'll set mine about 18 inches apart, so when you add 2 to 3 inches for snake girth it'll be close to 15 inches. The thermostat should take care of the rest. Thanks for the reply.

sharthun · 04-04-14, 07:37 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by pdomensis

I had read that and it's how I decided on an 80w. I think I'll set mine about 18 inches apart, so when you add 2 to 3 inches for snake girth it'll be close to 15 inches. The thermostat should take care of the rest. Thanks for the reply.

Cool beans! post pics when you get it setup!