plastic enclosures

hey everyone. just doing some more research.. eventually when i upgrade to a bigger enclosure for my ball python i was thinking about getting a plastic. rubbermaid i guess.. im having trouble maintaining heat and humidity in the glass tanks. i was wondering how you apply heat. can you put an UTH. i would thinkn ot but im really not sure. so basically i needed to know what the best brand container would be and the best way to maintain heat and humidity in the enclosure. thanks for the help. nick

Hola Nick,

Have you checked the DIY section for the info on plastic enclosures? Get you a direct link in a second.

Brand-wise it's really up to you - I think a lot of folks use Rubbermaid and Sterelite just because they are so ubiquitous (walMart/Target sure stocke em).

Both heat and humidity are much easier to maintain in these (nto to mention the possibility of adding better cross-ventilation) - and I speak as a former die-hard tank guy. UTH's can indeed be used with these but I would not reccomend you use any which dictate they be stuck to the bottom with some sort of adhesive.

Link in a sec.

http://www.ball-pythons.net/modules....warticle&id=40

I dont use the ceramic emitter or lamp perched on the lid of mine - so you can safely ignore that portion unless you are bent on including those (most folks may not use either of those for BPs). I only melt (solder iron) maybe 2-3 holes in the lid with the rest distributed around the sides.

what brand UTH would be best. thanks for the link.

I have used zoo-med, exoterra, and Ultratherm UTH's. I like the Ultratherm because it does not have a sticky side, you just sit it underneath the tub. Most people on this site will advise the use of flex-watt. I have never used it, but have only heard wonderful things about it...see Matt @ mg reptiles, he'll help. You will also hear people tell you that you need to get a thermostat. All UTH's need to be run on a thermostat or lamp dimmer. I can tell you that I resisted spending the money for way too long....I used a lamp dimmer, and had to adjust it several times per day, and I was always worried about my temps. Everyone here is right when they suggest purchasing a t-stat...it is worth every penny! (again, Matt at MG).

thanks for the help. im making the switch this weekend.

i'd like to second the use of a thermostat! imo, this is a must have for the proper setup to care for bp's. if you wamt to comparison shop you can check out

www.reptilebasics.com they have alot of heating supplies and have a good price. i've bought from them before, no problems. rich will match or beat prices in most cases!

vaughn