Need some advise

Ballchris · 02-20-15, 03:03 AM

OK I am buying a new enclosure for my ball python (Kahlessi), I am thinking of going with a Constrictors Northwest they seem to be the best for what im looking for, and what im looking for is to quit fighting with temps and humidity.

Now what im wondering how do you heat and light these kind of enclosers heating pads, heat tape, what do I do.

Ill be getting the 32x23x12

thanks everyone in advance, You all have helped me so much since iv been here with the forum.

wrecker45 · 02-20-15, 08:47 AM

I use LED lighting and heat tape. You need a thermostat.

Ballchris · 02-20-15, 05:04 PM

How do u use heat tape do have to put it on the bottom of the encloser or in it

wrecker45 · 02-20-15, 05:20 PM

Tape to the bottom at one end. Use duct tape or that heat tape used for duct work.

Luthien · 02-20-15, 08:33 PM

Just personal experience here but I'm currently fixing up a wood enclosure for my baby corn and people on here have been advising me against heat cable if at all possible. If the enclosure is screen top they say to use a CHE (Ceramic Heat Emiter) light

SnoopySnake · 02-20-15, 08:39 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Luthien

Just personal experience here but I'm currently fixing up a wood enclosure for my baby corn and people on here have been advising me against heat cable if at all possible. If the enclosure is screen top they say to use a CHE (Ceramic Heat Emiter) light

Heat cable and heat tape are two different things, heat tape is very similar to a heat mat.

**EL Ziggy** · 02-20-15, 09:08 PM

I use tanks and tubs but I think my buddy uses a radiant heat panel and heat tape with his pvc enclosures. I really like Constrictors NW enclosures and want to order a 4x2 from them but they're not taking any more orders until April.

backafter30 · 02-21-15, 02:35 PM

I sandwich THG heat tape between ceramic tiles, using silicone around the edges for an adhesive and to keep it waterproof. The tiles transmit heat well, and are easy to clean. I also add a bit of aluminum tape to the bottom to reflect the heat upwards, but I'm not sure if that really makes any difference. You just need a way to adjust the current (rheostat, dimmer, thermostat) and adjust accordingly.

Ballchris · 02-21-15, 09:44 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by backafter30

I sandwich THG heat tape between ceramic tiles, using silicone around the edges for an adhesive and to keep it waterproof. The tiles transmit heat well, and are easy to clean. I also add a bit of aluminum tape to the bottom to reflect the heat upwards, but I'm not sure if that really makes any difference. You just need a way to adjust the current (rheostat, dimmer, thermostat) and adjust accordingly.

could you post some pics

it would greatly appreciated.

Ballchris · 02-21-15, 09:50 PM

ok that takes care of the hot side how do i get the cool side to temps or will the heat tape put off enough heat to heat it to temps necessary.

backafter30 · 02-22-15, 11:00 PM

Kinda hard to get pics. All I have made so far are embedded into my cage scenery (carved foam). They aren't visible, but there's not much to see anyway. Just two tiles, back to back, with silicone holding them together around the edges and the wires sticking out. Pretty simple. As far as temps go, I don't try to heat every square inch of the enclosure. I figure as long as there are plenty of hides with varying temps, and at least some of them are sufficiently warm, the animal can select which temps suit it at the time. My snakes often select the colder parts of their enclosures to rest in. Instinct should tell them what is best.