How to Setup a Glass Tank (20 long) With Pictures!

OK first timer here. I set up the UTH and are considering mercury vapor bulbs. Could I use the bulb during the day and use the UTH at night on a timer?

Do I leave the red heat bulb on 24/7? How long do they typically last before needing replaced?

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Originally Posted by LieutenantLysol

OK first timer here. I set up the UTH and are considering mercury vapor bulbs. Could I use the bulb during the day and use the UTH at night on a timer?

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Maybe, depends on your temps. You may need both on all the time.

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Originally Posted by Adamrhh

Do I leave the red heat bulb on 24/7? How long do they typically last before needing replaced?

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You can but again you need to monitor your temps. Replace the bulb when they blow/burn out. Always have a spare because your bulb will blow at the exact moment that you can't go to the store and get another. Also if you live in an area that your electricity has a lot of surges and/or outages, put the lamp on a real surge protector or you will be replacing bulbs a lot.

Can I use a Lamp Dimmer on the UTH instead of a Thermostat? My room always stays ~75 degrees.

Thank you for such an informative post, OP! I am just about to set up my first Ball Python tank, and have almost everything I need, thanks to your info provided :)

You can but it is recommended that it be temporary until you can get a real thermostat. Make sure you monitor the Uth temp regularly.

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/05...c1c5e80bcc.jpg

Is it safe to leave the lamp directly on the screen? Would a baby ball python be able to burn itself?

Also, could I buy a Ceramic Heat Lamp from Walmart or a Hardware Store? Or do I have to buy one designed for pets? (Fluker's, Zoo Med, etc)

If your screen is metal, yes it is ok. You can possibly use the heat lamps from Wal mart or the hardware ware store. I would personally go with a hardware brand over Walmart. I would suggest that you make sure it can handle different size bulbs in watt and shape.

hi there, i'm new.

is there a reason why u cover the back and sides with paper? i was thinking of only putting in a background wallpaper of landscape scenery or something at some point.

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Originally Posted by Ax01

hi there, i'm new.

is there a reason why u cover the back and sides with paper? i was thinking of only putting in a background wallpaper of landscape scenery or something at some point.

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The back and sides are covered to help make the ball python feel more secure. If your tank is sitting in a high traffic area of your home then this will help reduce stress to the snake from people walking by all the time.

I guess the background wallpaper may work. You want to attach it to the outside of the tank. That way it is easier to clean the inside of the tank. I used black construction paper and double sided scotch tape to attach mine. It has been on my same tank close to 3 years now with no trouble.