BP setup?

I'm new to BPs and have a few questions.

Firstly I'm considering getting the Exo Terra Ceramic Heat Emitter 100W, can I use this on its own or do I also have to use a heat mat?
If I do use a CHE what's the best bulb guard?
I'm also slightly confused about thermometer placement, I'm going to use a thermostat for the CHE, but do I also need a thermometer for that side (hot side)? I know I need a thermometer for the cold side (correct me if I'm wrong). Where does the hydrometer need to be placed (any suggestions for an accurate one welcome)?

Thanks.

Firstly I'm considering getting the Exo Terra Ceramic Heat Emitter 100W, can I use this on its own or do I also have to use a heat mat?
Yes


If I do use a CHE what's the best bulb guard?
You don't need a guard because it shouldn't be inside the enclosure.


I'm also slightly confused about thermometer placement, I'm going to use a thermostat for the CHE, but do I also need a thermometer for that side (hot side)? I know I need a thermometer for the cold side (correct me if I'm wrong). Where does the hydrometer need to be placed (any suggestions for an accurate one welcome)?
Acurite makes a wired "indoor outdoor" model that ill take care of all your needs.

Thanks for the reply, I forgot to mention that I am in the UK so don't have as many options for thermometers.
Since heat emitters can't be inside the enclosure, are there any good domes for them?

Get a dome made for reptiles that had a ceramic or porcelain socket, do not get a one with a plastic socket bc it will melt or catch fire!

I recommend you buy a probe thermometer and 2 temp guns so you can compare all the devices bc you won't know if one is working correctly if you don't have others to compare to. The probe for the thermometer needs to be placed on the ground where the middle of the che heat will hit and make sure that spot stays around 88-90. They do sell acurite 00891 on amazon UK which has a probe for hot side then you can place the rest of the unit on cool side for cool temp and humidity as well. It was 42.12 in UK currency on amazon UK, they only cost 12 US dollars here but I will say they are very accurate and give me the same readings as my top quality thermostats. It's your choice to spend that much but I will tell you it will be more accurate then other probe thermometers you find labeled for reptiles. Actually if you think about it you will have to buy 2 thermometers for each side plus a hygrometer so maybe just buying the acurite that will give you all measurements would be worth the price.

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I'm not sure about availability where you are located, but something like this would suit your needs:

https://www.amazon.com/Flukers-Repta.../dp/B003H200QC

Since you are planning on housing a 4 weeks old hatchling, how big is your enclosure gonna be.

I'm planning on his final enclosure being a 40 breeder (90 x 45 x 45cm Exo Terra Terrarium), but may just get a 20 wide (60 x 45 x 45cm Exo Terra Terrarium) until he's a bit bigger so he feels more secure. What would you suggest?

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Archer

I'm planning on his final enclosure being a 40 breeder (90 x 45 x 45cm), but may just get a 20 wide (60 x 45 x 45cm) until he's a bit bigger so he feels more secure. What would you suggest?

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Until the animal is about 200 grams this http://ball-pythons.net/forums/showt...-Hatchling-101

After that increase to a 10 gallon, than 20 gallons than final enclosure.