What size CHE or bulb for my boa?

[LynnGunn]

I'm getting a large custom cage for my common boa that will be 4'x2'x3' (24 ft^2). The only option I had was to have only one light fixture in the cage so I have no idea wether to get a CHE or a bulb for him and what wattage for it. Does anybody have any input? I have time to order whatever I need since he's still a little to small to move into the new enclosure.

[Reinz]

Ideally I would get a radiant heat panel (RHP) with a thermostat.

But if a lamp is your only option get the highest wattage you can and then regulate it with a table top dimmer switch. You can get them at Amazon or Lowes for around $10.

The reason I say to get the highest wattage is two fold. One, for flexibility of heat adjustment. You can always start with a high setting and go down. But not the other way if you have a low wattage bulb like 50/75.
Two, money and longevity.

Before I picked up my first tabletop dimmer I was replacing bulbs anywhere from every month to six months, probably about a 3 month average life of light bulbs. Maybe 6 months life average on CHE. Since I got the dimmers 1 1/2 years ago I have not replaced any bulbs at all!!

The secret is to use a bulb that is overkill and turn it down to 50% or less. That way they don't get as hot and melt the fillaments. Of course you need a heat gun to dial in your temp.