Couple RBI CB-70 questions

[BriGuy31+]

Iris CB-70 Rack

Hello,

I am setting up my first rack system for my first "breeding project". It is a RBI CB-70 three tub rack. I bought it used off of a local breeder. I have a couple questions:

(1) The RBI website says to place my thermostat probe on the heat tape itself and not in the tub. Is this common practice? I bought a thermostat that has a combination temperature/humidity probe. Can I cause potential harm to my snake by placing the probe within the tub?

(2) Do you know the total feet of flextape used in the RBI CB-70 three tub rack? I was thinking of replacing the heat tape because I really don't know how old it is and would like to play it safe and start with new heat tape. What I have read about the new THG heat tape is all positive feedback and would like to try it out. I would like to know the total feet in length that I will need without taking out the old stuff until the replacement is here.

Thanks for any help. I really appreciate your time.

[Eric Alan]

1) Securing the thermostat probe to the heat tape outside of the tub is critical. By placing it inside of the tub, it is subject to being moved, peed/pooped on, etc - all leading towards unreliable temperature regulation, which could harm the snake. Outside of the tub, it will remain in a constant position, allowing the thermostat to do its job. Your job is to then use a thermometer (infrared type recommended) in the tub to dial in the thermostat to the proper temperature where your snakes spend their time (not on top of the substrate - on the plastic of the tub itself above the heat tape).

2) Your best bet on this answer would be to email Rich at RBI. He's a great guy and I'm sure would get this answered pretty quickly for you.

[Eric Alan]

Also, just to be clear, did you buy a thermoSTAT or a thermoMETER with a dual temperature/humidity probe? There is a huge difference and your knowledge of the difference is important.

[BriGuy31+]

Thank you for your responses. I bought a Digital Aquatics HerpKeeper thermostat. After years of breeding saltwater clownfish and using the DA Reefkeeper I felt very comfortable with this company. They are running a promo that upgraded the probe to a combination temp/humidity probe and I pulled the trigger......a little too quickly. I guess the humidity measurements will not come from a probe outside of the snake's tub . I have an infrared red thermometer coming to double check all areas, including the "cool" spot to confirm a proper environment.....snakes arrive in one week!