getting my first tub today

Okay, so I finally decided to put him in. Here's what the setup looks like:

http://aycu15.webshots.com/image/500...3018932_rs.jpg

The warm side is constant 89-94ish...usually 92F.

Someone else here said that I don't need a 2nd UTH for the cool side since it will create a nice ambient from the warm side, but it is only 75F there :( oh and how can I bump up the humidity a bit more? its at 40%

Oh and another quick question. It's okay for him not to use the hides right? Since its a tub and he feels more secure in it

You can bump up the humidity by taping up a few of the holes. Looks like you put 2 rows on each side, huh? I usually start with less holes and add more if I need the humidity to go down.

You might also try getting a bigger water bowl. Target should sell VanNess plastic crock water dishes that work well. They are deeper and have a bit more surface area. I use 6" ones in that size tub and the humidity is where it should be.

As far as him not using his hides, it's probably the half logs. They aren't too good as far as security. If you have a garden center close by, they should have some of those deep plastic plant saucers(sit under the pot and catch water). Buy 2 of those, cut holes in the sides, and place upside down on each side of the tub. They are round, low to the ground, dark and easy to clean. Plus, they are only around 50 cents apiece :)

If he eats after a week of settling in, then he's probably fine. If he doesn't, then I would find some different hides. I have some that don't use their hides and others that LOVE their hides. Depends on the snake.

As far as 75 degrees on the cool side, I would get a 2nd UTH. If you can get another 11" x 12" piece of wired flexwatt, plug it into a dimmer, and then plug it into your thermostat, it should work very well.

Your thermostat probe isn't in the tub, is it? Not very safe, especially if water gets spilled on it(probe gets cooler and tells the thermostat to heat up, possibly too hot).

Yea thermostat probe is in the tub. That's the only way I can get constant temp in there, otherwise it fluctuates.

He's been using those two hides for over 6 months now without a problem. I just thought he felt safer in the tub hehe.

Regarding holes..there are four on the short side and six on the long sides. I didn't make too many thinking exactly like you.. Humidity is at 34% right now :( I def need the bigger water bowl.

Oh and I just checked and he's in the warmer ends hide :) In the morning he was in the cooler end's corner