humidity and temp issues.

[Liquid Snake 06]

ok, so i got a digital thermometor and hydrometer. i have a 75 watt basking light on top of the tank. when i put the digital therm. under the light, my temp is reading 102 degrees F. Humidity is 34%. Could it be reading so hot because its plastic and metal, which is a conductor of heat? Ive been using the misting technique...but so far has not worked. I think im more stressed then the snake. I also know that bp's are noctornal, and since my lamp is the only heating source, is it ok to turn it off at night?

[Shaun J]

The lamp is the problem. Get a UTH

[Liquid Snake 06]

even if its a 10 gallon tank?

[Shaun J]

Yup, the tank even makes it worse. Lol. Get a tub with UTH with a dimmer/rheostat/thermostat. They keep humidity better.

[Liquid Snake 06]

do i put the uth IN the tub or underneath it? ( WOW, i just asked the dumbest question ever lol)

[Shaun J]

Underneath it, unless you like grilled snake. lol.

[snakedude56]

Grilled snake is delicious! lol just kidding. its definitely better to have the uth under the enclosure with some breathing room between it and the tub or tank.

[Liquid Snake 06]

ok so i put the UTH under one side of the tank, its been about an hour now and its only 86 degrees, humidity is at 58%. do these pads take a while to heat up?

[Shaun J]

Do you have a dimmer/ thermostat? And yes it does take a while

[Liquid Snake 06]

its a UTH from Four Paws. got it for 14 bucks at pet supermarket. no dimmer or thermostat. simple plug in type. digi thermometer is still ready 86 degrees with a humidity of 54%. will this still work if i use the green terrarium lining? or is it to thick? i have aspen bedding if you think that will work better. and again guys, thanks for all your help. this is my first snake ever! i wanna make it worth it!