AP cage suggestions...

[jtman]

Hello everyone. I got my 2nd AP T3 cage built today. As soon as I get my order from MGR Ill be able to get everything going. Now that I have them built I realize that they are really dark! Now, after the fact of course, I'd like to install some kind of lighting. I have no Idea what to try or where to start! I dont want to chop holes in the cage so i was thinking i could cut the power cord, insert through the ventilation cuts and then tape the wire back up real nice. Does anyone have any suggestions of what kind of fixture I should use and how i can mount it? THanks for the help everyone!

JT

[Python-77]

Well cutting the cord, but that increases your fire risk, what I did on my APs that I installed a light was removed the very top of the back panel and drill a small hole just large enough for the cord. sit the cord in the hole reattach the top and install the light its clean easy and safe.

[jtman]

That sounds like a great idea! Now I jusy need to figure out what kin of light to use

[jglass38]

If the light is just for you to be able to check in on your BP every once in a while, I would go with a standard plastic fluorescent shop light. It will mount nicely to the ceiling of the cage and if most have a plastic covering for the light.

[Merchant]

I order my ap cages with the light fixture. But you could simply install a regular fluorescent fixture, cut the plug off, and throw the cut plug away. Drill a hole big enough for the cord in the back of the cage. Then install a new plug end bought from a hardware store. Never tape connections use proper replacement parts. (Unless you like fires or being electrocuted)

[jtman]

Ok so i found this set of halogen lights at the hardware store today. It comes with a wiring kit so I can wire it without drilling holes or cutting cords. I was looking through the directions and i noticed a heat warning. "mounting surface gets very warm! Temperatures may reach 191 F". Yikes! I dont think that this will be too safe for my snakes.


But seeing the parts used to wire this up I think I can find the necessary hardware to "re-wire" a flourecent fixture. How big of fixtures should I get? I saw from 8" on up and Im sure there are smaller than 8" out there.

[jtman]

Ok so I need some help. The accent lighting i bought with the halogen bulbs makes me want to wire the lighting for both cages to one plug with one on/off switch. I found the replacement plugs just fine but there was a joiner of sorts to connect multiple lights to a single cord. I cant seem to find these joiners anywere. Can i use those little twisty things to join the wires together? My knowledge of electrical isnt too extensive. Thanks for the help.

JT