Radiant heat panels help

[JustMeNmySnakes]

I've got 4 tanks by Herpocages and they measure 36x24x12. Before I heard of Radiant Heat Panels, I was stumped how I could implement an adequate heat source that would be sufficient for these tanks.
They're made of off white plastic, with drop down doors.
I see the panels come in different wattage ratings.
What would be an adequate panel for each of these tanks?

[Sublimeballs]

Depending on your ambient room temp I'd think the 40 watt rbi panel would work great. But it's best to shoot whatever company an email with a brief description of the setup and animal and they'll tell you better then any of us.

[JustMeNmySnakes]

Thanks for that!

[Sublimeballs]

No problem.

[JustMeNmySnakes]

Spoke with Bobby at Reptile Basics today and based on my intended enclosure dimensions 6x3x28", he recommended the 160 watt panel.
I'm sure he knows what he's talking about, but that panel is more than half the length of my enclosure at 42.5" long.
I told him I'm planning to build a shelf about mid way between top and bottom and install the panel under the shelf. She can use the shelf as a resting spot or maybe ll make a hide above the panel.
How do these RHP's work?
Do they heat directly below, does the heat radiate out and how far if so?
Thanks!

[metalcopper]

I would install the panel on the ceiling, and your shelf will allow your snake to rest closer to the panel if it wants to for a higher basking temp. Although, 28 inches is a little tall for radiant heat panels, the shelf could make up for that.

[LarryS]

Most heat panels do heat from one side only, usually mounted to the top of the cage as already suggested and the heating element is facing down.
They do produce radiant heat which can heat large portions of a cage depending on many factors.
Heat panels will heat objects in the tank and they also heat the air, both directly and indirectly.

I never realized how oblong RBI panels were. There are a lot of forum members here using them so I'm sure someone will chime in with first hand experience with a similar sized enclosure and panel.
ProProducts is another popular panel company, you may want to look into sizes available from them as well.

[Stewjoe]

The RHP will definitely heat the surface above it. My 80W panels can heat the cage floor above it to 90 degrees or more and that's through two layers of 3/8 expanded PVC. The panel itself gets quite warm and there's no circulation behind them.

[JustMeNmySnakes]

The enclosure is:
6' long, 28" deep, 3' high. I'm building the shelf for the panel to attach underneath at about 15 to 18" from the floor or substrate.
I hope these panels generate enough heat for them to have the proper hot spot underneath. I can see how the panels will generate heat that will certainly keep the upper section of the enclosure warm. I'm hoping there's enough of a temp drop on the other end of the enclosure so they have a cool spot.
I figure vents need to be properly located so the hot air escapes to keep the enclosure from turning not a sauna.
In an enclosure that size, where would vents be best placed, or is it a personal preference?
Thanks for all your help.

Originally Posted by metalcopper

I would install the panel on the ceiling, and your shelf will allow your snake to rest closer to the panel if it wants to for a higher basking temp. Although, 28 inches is a little tall for radiant heat panels, the shelf could make up for that.

[Stewjoe]

Two ventilation locations, back high and front low. That configuration will allow for proper circulation. Hot air rises and will escape the back vents drawing cool air in the front.