Need Help......

I just received my new RBI cage 4x2x12" along with an Ultratherm heat mat. Well, when I attempted to plug the heatpad into the Helix thermostat - it would not plug into the Helix - it was like the prongs were too long or something. So, I put a small plug in adaptor into the Helix first and then plugged my heatpad into that - it seemed to work (not sure if this is okay to do or not).

Anyway, this is my first experience using a heatpad - my other cages have RHP's. I let the darn thing warm up all night and I could not get my temps where I needed them. The Helix highest setting is 110 degrees - I need to know if any of you use a heatpad with a Helix and if so, what do you need to set the Helix at in order to get the right temps in the cage. My cool side was way to cold - like at 70 degrees.

I am seriously considering just switching to an RHP - and if I do that I need to know if I should get an 80Watt RHP or larger - remember the dimensions are 4x2x12" RBI Cage. I plan to put an '08 RTB in this cage.

Please any help would be great - I need to get this fixed ASAP.

Thanks.

From the Reptile Basics FAQ on Radiant Heat Panels - If your cage falls into the 2'x4' or 2'x6' range you will want to upgrade to the 80 watt panel. The 120 watt panel is for generally for larger cages 2'x6' or larger, open air enclosures or cool room temperatures. The 160 watt panel is intended for 6' and 8' cages. When in doubt you can move to the next higher wattage, just make sure you use that thermostat!

My concerm was that I am currently running the 80Watt RHP on my smaller cages 3x2x14" with great success - this new cage is alot larger 4x2x12" - should I go with a 120 Watt RHP. I want to make sure that I have enough gradient space for the snake to utilize - don't want too much of an area being too warm.

I decided to go ahead and order an 80 watt Rhp - I don't like the uncertainty I feel with using the heatpad - I guess I am just used to the accuracy and efficiency of the RHP's.