Heating Source?

[rhkaga2]

Hey im new to ball python husbandry and i was just wondering what type of heating you guys suggested? I have a nocternal heat lamp, but Im thinking about getting a UTH. Should I use both? or should i just use the heat lamp, or just the UTH? let me know what you think. Also i was wondering how often it is recomended to change the substrate in a 10 gal tank for a baby ball? thanks in advance for your help

[Pandora]

Snakes don't require overhead heat. UTHs should always be used. Be sure it covers no more than half the tank. Use a digital thermometer with a probe under the substrate to measure the temps. They should be about 92 Fahrenheit on average. Be sure to use a thermostat to control the temp of the UTH otherwise it can get too hot. If your ambient temps are low, you might want to consider getting a CHE but snakes don't really require more than ambient light or the heat given off from the UTH.

As for renewing the substrate, be sure to spot clean when they defecate. In other words, remove and replace all the substrate in the general area and wash any decorations the poop/pee may have come into contact with. Thoroughly clean the tank and everything in it once a month with Zoo Med Wipe Out 1 and 2 and then replace the substrate. It's an especially good idea to do this after the shedding process since you're keeping the humidity bumped up and creates a breeding ground for bacteria.

Hope this helps =]

[bigballs]

if your room temperature is warm enough then a just UTH alone is fine.

[starmom]

What are your temps with just the overhead heat source?
Do you have a thermostat to control the UTH, if you choose to go that route?

I have reptile cages and use radiant heat panels in all of them. They give off heat from overhead.