Confused on heat for a plastic under the bed tote

[bayyjayy]

Hello, there!

I am trying to figure out the best way to heat a plastic tote. I have read and read (since I know the same questions asked over and over can get annoying! ) but still can't find the answer!

I still have no idea the best and safest heat source to use for this type of an enclosure. I bought a Sterilite 50 qt under bed storage container and the 10-20 gallon Zoo Med under tank heater. I have read that human heating pads are great, but have also read they aren't. I have a thermometer to track my heat and humidity, but I don't even dare open the heater and try it wondering if I will burn the house down. I would like to get it figured out, up and running before our new snake comes home.

I am so sorry if this question has been answered a zillion times, I just can't find the answer to: what is the best and safest way to heat this type of a tote?

Thanks so much!

[PitOnTheProwl]

Human heating pads are for humans.....they shut off after an hour or two.
Reptile heat sources require a thermostat. A thermometer only tells you what the temperature is, a thermostat regulates it.

[Willowy]

The UTH will get hot enough to warp the plastic (and burn the snake) if unregulated. But with a thermostat to keep it around 90, no melting or burning . A decent beginner model is a Hydrofarm/Jumpstart, about $30 from Amazon. If you want to get a high-end model, Herpstat is good but costs more.

[bayyjayy]

Ok......that makes sense....by using a thermostat it keeps the heater from getting too hot.....so the heater I got will work since I have a thermostat!

Makes so much sense but I guess I just got overwhelmed when reading everything and didn't realize that the heat wouldn't get hot enough to melt the plastic!

I didn't think a human heating pad would work, but I have read a few things that suggested using one!

Thanks so much!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[PythonBabes]

Yeah, I'm suuper scared about setting up my UTH this winter. It's really hot in my room, so temps stay at 79-82, but it's getting colder. Karma's tub stays under my bed too, it's hotter and darker..and with my mom 'out of sight, out of mind' I got the Hydrofoam thermostat, just waiting for it to get cold enough to use it.