question on new large terrarium

reptiledude987 · 01-07-15, 05:46 PM

So I just picked up a used 4'x4'x2' terrarium for my JCP. It has a radiant heat panel mounted on the top with thermostat set to 85 with sensor on hot side 12" high with 150 watt heat lamp. All on timers for cooling cycle as I want to breed her this spring. Should this setup this way maintain the proper temps she needs? Ill try to post pics tonight cant do it now from work due to internet filters.

**Aaron_S** · 01-07-15, 05:48 PM

The sensor is 12" off the ground? You'll want to measure the hot spot and adjust the thermostat accordingly.

reptiledude987 · 01-07-15, 05:56 PM

So measure hot spot on the floor or where she usually perches by the the top on her branches?

reptiledude987 · 01-07-15, 05:56 PM

Was hoping you would reply on this one aaron

**Aaron_S** · 01-07-15, 06:03 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by reptiledude987

So measure hot spot on the floor or where she usually perches by the the top on her branches?

I'd measure both. I'd probably keep the higher hot spot the hottest as it will trickle down underneath. She will utilize them as she needs.

Just make sure she can't touch the bulb!

reptiledude987 · 01-07-15, 06:10 PM

Ok so ill put the temp probe by the top perch and put an additional digital thermometer hygrometer by the probe and another in the oppsite corner at the bottom to confirm the gradient. I will update with the temp readings tomorrow.

**Aaron_S** · 01-08-15, 11:56 AM

I would get an infrared temp gun. Point, click and you have your reading. less probes to mess around with.

You can attach a probe to the heat panel if you like.

**millertime89** · 01-08-15, 12:58 PM

If you search on amazon.com for a temp gun you can get decent ones for cheap. That's what I use and I haven't had a problem with my two since I bought them about three and a half years ago.

reptiledude987 · 01-08-15, 01:06 PM

Ya thats what im going to have to do because none of the pet stores around me carry them. However the rc hobby store which im also a regular at has some im just not sure on their range or price.

**millertime89** · 01-08-15, 05:07 PM

They're under $20 usd on amazon, not sure about shipping up north though. Worth a look at least. I never see cheap temp guns in pet stores anyways unless they're reptile specialty stores. None of the generic chain stores carry them.