I have finally saved up the money for an AP cage, but I have some questions from those of you that use them. I'll start by saying that I have a particular set up that I like and that works for my snake now and I want to transfer that to the new cage somehow.

- What is the best heat source? I only use thermostat controlled CHE's right now and they work great, but I'm not sure the AP cages wire cut outs can handle that temp. (I really don't like the radiant heat panels very much from previous experiences)

- On that note, are the reptile basics hides thin enough for heat to pass through and warm the hide without cooking the top? (his hot hide currently is an upside-down terra cotta pot with the bottom hole enlarged as the entrance)

- Can an UTH even be used with the plastic cage? And if so, how do I keep the hide temperature up given that I use deep (1-2 inch) substrate since he burrows on occasion?

- How easy are they to custom drill for thermometer / thermostat probe placement?

- I know you have to assemble and let the sealant cure before adding the snake and have been told to let it air out outside for a few days, but I don't have an outside (or garage) that I can leave an expensive cage . Will the fumes be too strong to let it cure in the house? (I have a very small 1 bdrm apt, so the snake can't really be isolated from the fumes easily if they are actually dangerous)

- Which door system is best for holding in humidity? I like the hinge, but they look like they have a big gap around them and I can't tell from the picture on the site how they are locked. Does the acrylic yellow and deform over time?

Thanks for taking the time to read this and for any replies.