Hello, I purchased two T8 cages from Animal Plastic and overall, I really like the quality of the cages. However, I'm having trouble with heating my cages. Before I go any further, I wanted to mention that I do have one of their "stands" which is completely hollow inside. I have 2.5' of 11 inch flexwatt underneath both cages.

On the first cage, the cage that is sitting on the stand, I have the thermostat at 115 degrees to maintain 92 degree hot spot inside the cage.

The second cage, I have the thermostat set to 105 degrees to maintain 91 degree hot spot. The second cage literally sits on top of the first cage which is why, I think, it is easier to regulate the heat because the heat does not have anywhere to go but through the PVC.

My question is this, is it safe to keep the thermostat at 115 degrees? I'm kind of puzzled because I live in San Diego, CA so it is not THAT cold here. I thought about getting a radiant heat panel but I feel that I shouldn't need one.

Another thing I did differently is the placement of the heat tape. Most people place the heat tape from back to front while I have mine placed from right to left. I don't think this should make any difference? Besides, I can fit more flexwatt (2.5' than 2.0') from right to left than front to back.

What do you guys think?

M