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  • 02-19-2011, 12:32 PM
    Vypyrz
    Vypyrz Tub Set-Up, The Basics...*DUW*
    The purpose of this thread is not to perpetuate the continuous debate of "Tanks vs. Tubs", but to try and both answer and illustrate as much as I can about stand alone tubs and their set-up. There are many different alternatives, options, and methods to doing things, and I will try to list some where applicable.
    Since websites and products can change or vary, depending on your location, I am not including any external links in this thread. If you have a question on where to purchase supplies, please ask in a separate thread so that current information can be provided.

    Some Notes On Tubs:

    Humidity- While it is generally easier to regulate and maintain the humidity levels in tubs, there are several factors that will affect it and should be considered. These are:
    1) Your geographic location.
    2) Ambient environmental conditions in your home.
    3) Number of holes in the tub.
    4) Size of the holes.
    5) Ventilation
    6) Size of the water bowl.
    7) Type of substrate used.
    The amount of ventilation is the key to regulating humidity. This is all dependant on the number and size of the holes and the amount of airflow through the tub. I recommend starting out with just a few holes. After the humidity stabilizes, add a few more holes at a time until it gets to the level that you want it at. Depending on the seasonal weather at your location, you may have to open quite a few more holes in the summer and then cover some during the winter months. Or, you can use two different tubs. Another way to regulate the humidity is to increase or decrease the amount of air flow through the tub. This can be accomplished by the use of an oscillating fan, or, in some cases, a cieling fan, if available. If you choose this method, then you adjust the speed and position of the fan to change the humidity.

    Temperature- I normally recommend that the size of the heat source cover at least 1/3 but not more than 1/2 of the floor space of the tub. The ambient room temp will affect the tub temperture. If your house generally stays at or above 75F, then you can probably use a heat source size on the lower end of the range. If your house stays below 75F, then you may want to use a heat source size closer to the upper end of the range. If you live in a really cold place, then you might decide to use a dual heat source/thermostat set-up. Another option is to use a space heater to maintain the ambient temperature in the room where your snake is kept.

    Heat Sources- Here, you have basically two choices, Under Tank Heater(UTH) pads and Flexwatt Heat Tape. Both can be obtained in a variety of sizes and configurations and it's your preference whichever one you choose.

    Thermostats- Please, please, do not use an un-regulated heat source. Sooner or later, you will run into trouble because of it. A thermostat will save you from alot of frustration, heartache, and money in the long run. A rheostat or dimmer can be used in a pinch, however, these do not regulate heat, they only adjust it. These require closer monitoring and more frequent adjustments since the tub temperatures will change with changes in the house temps. The $25-$30 investment in a basic thermostat will save you a $300+ trip to the vet due to a burned snake.

    Selecting Tub Size- Depending on who you ask, you will get a variety of recommendations on "tub size vs. snake size." Since most stand alone tubs are translucent in varying degrees, depending on brand and model, I prefer to set mine up the same as a tank with a minimum of two hides and a water bowl, and this is how I determine the size of the tub:
    1) Decide what size of snake you want (juvenile, adult, etc.) or pick out your particular snake.
    2) Select two appropriately sized and snug hides for your snake, a water bowl, and any extras, such as a small branch or fake rock for rubbing on.
    3) Now that you have the furnishings, find a tub that all of the items will fit comfortably in. They don't have to be crammed into the tub, but you don't want alot of extra space. For younger snakes, I figure about 3-5 inches of floor space between items is ok. For larger snakes, you can give them a little more room. Don't get a tub that is too tall for your snake. For Ball Pythons and most ground dwelling snakes, the 6-7 inch tall tubs are about perfect.
    4) Once you have the tub selected, now you can get the correct size heat source.

    Setting It Up-

    Here is what you need to get started:

    http://i1019.photobucket.com/albums/...s/HPIM0702.jpg
    http://i1019.photobucket.com/albums/...s/HPIM0703.jpg

    1) Tub
    2) Heat Source (UTH or Flexwatt)
    3) Thermostat
    4) 2 Thermometers (one with a probe) or Temp gun, and a Hygrometer. I like the Acu-Rite because it measures two temperatures and humidity all in one unit.
    5) Soldering Iron, Drill, Wood Burning Iron, or whatever you decide to make the holes with. I prefer a soldering iron.
    6) Tape. I use aluminum tape because it is generally easier to remove.
    7) Binder Clips
    8) Velcro (Optional)
    9) Luggage Strap or Bungee Cord (Optional)
    10) Substrate
    11) Water Bowl
    12) 2 Hides. This is two small litter pans and 2 plastic bowls which can easily be made into cheap, adequate hides by melting an entrance hole on the side with the soldering iron. Keep in mind that whether you choose to purchase or make your own hides, they should provide a snug fit for your snakes security.

    - Decide how many holes you want to start off with and where you want to place them. If you want to lay them out in a fancy pattern, it's your prerogative. I only put holes on the front and back, because that is all I need.

    http://i1019.photobucket.com/albums/...s/HPIM0302.jpg

    - Make the holes.

    http://i1019.photobucket.com/albums/...s/HPIM0304.jpg

    -Turn the tub upside down so that you are looking at the bottom. Mount the Thermostat probe to the bottom of the tub with a piece of tape.

    http://i1019.photobucket.com/albums/...s/HPIM0446.jpg

    - Using tape, mount the UTH over the probe. Some Heaters come with little rubber feet to raise the enclosure. If yours doesn't, you can use something like thin pieces of wood or by glueing a plastic bottle cap at each corner. This is to keep the heat source from contacting the surface below, or, if your tub is not indented on the bottom, it will keep it from wobbling on the probe.

    http://i1019.photobucket.com/albums/...s/HPIM0448.jpg

    - Flip the tub over. Next comes the thermometer. The base unit will go on the cool side and will tell you the ambient temperature and humidity level. The probe will be placed on the warm side, against the bottom of the tub, over the UTH. This will tell you what the hottest temperature that your snake will be exposed to, should they burrow in or under the substrate. If you don't have velcro, you can just set the unit in the tub. I prefer to apply velcro to the back of it and mount it to the side of the tub.

    http://i1019.photobucket.com/albums/...s/HPIM0626.jpg

    http://i1019.photobucket.com/albums/...s/HPIM0454.jpg

    - The excess probe wire can be buried under the substrate.

    http://i1019.photobucket.com/albums/...s/HPIM0456.jpg

    - But I prefer to keep it out of the way by melting a hole near the bottom of the warm side and running the probe out, around, and back in on the warm side. That way, all of the excess wire stays tucked away behind the tub and out of the way. I use a few globs of hot glue to hold it in place.

    http://i1019.photobucket.com/albums/...s/HPIM0665.jpg

    - Add the substrate, furnishings, and water.

    http://i1019.photobucket.com/albums/...HPIM0476-1.jpg

    - The Binder Clips are used to pinch the tub and lid together to close any gaps and reduce the chance for an escape. I also use luggage straps on my tubs, even though they are really only needed on one tub. I just like everything uniform.

    -At this point, connect the UTH to the thermostat and set it to the desired temperature. Monitor the temps and humidity inside the tub for a few hours. Make small adjustments to the holes and/or ventilation for the humidity levels, and depending on what the inside temps are doing, you may need to adjust the thermostat setting a little. Once all of your numbers are good and stabilized...go get your snake.

    Hopefully, this will answer some questions and provide some of the basics of setting up a stand alone tub.

    Since mounting the thermostat probe and heat source to the bottom of the tub can be a bit cumbersome when it comes to moving the tub for cleaning, you can mount the heat source and probe so that they are not physically attached to the tub. I chose to make a mounting base.

    I decided to use Melamine, and bought 2 shelves (4' X 18"), which is what I needed for my four tubs.
    *NOTE* If you do not have a power saw to cut the Melamine, I suggest having it cut at the place of purchase.
    I measured and cut each shelf into 4 pieces, so I had a total of:
    4 pieces, 18" X 18"
    4 pieces, 18" X 6"
    Which gave me one set per tub.

    http://i1019.photobucket.com/albums/...s/HPIM0592.jpg

    My first thought was to just mount the UTH to the base with the probe on top, so I mocked it up to see what it would look like. While this will work effectively, I wanted something a little different.

    http://i1019.photobucket.com/albums/...s/HPIM0603.jpg

    http://i1019.photobucket.com/albums/...s/HPIM0605.jpg

    I wanted a way to securely mount the probes where they would also be protected. I measured the diameter of the probes at 3/8". I then hooked up the router attachment to my Dremel tool and set it for 3/16" and cut a channel in each of the bases. This would allow the probe to be recessed into the base but still be in direct contact with the UTH.

    http://i1019.photobucket.com/albums/...s/HPIM0599.jpg

    http://i1019.photobucket.com/albums/...s/HPIM0600.jpg

    Since the shelves are grated, the best way I could come up with to hold the bases in place was the tried and true duct tape, followed by the probes, and then the UTH's.

    http://i1019.photobucket.com/albums/...s/HPIM0627.jpg

    http://i1019.photobucket.com/albums/...s/HPIM0628.jpg

    In order to keep the wires from shifting or pulling out, I mounted them in place using the wire clamps.

    http://i1019.photobucket.com/albums/...s/HPIM0629.jpg

    This is my end result:

    http://i1019.photobucket.com/albums/...s/HPIM0639.jpg

    -Vypyrz-
  • 02-19-2011, 01:18 PM
    ballpythonluvr
    Re: Vypyrz Tub Set-Up, The Basics...*DUW*
    Thank you for this Vyprz! I am about to get another snake and I am making the switch to tubs! This is very helpful and couldn't have been posted at a better time!
  • 02-19-2011, 02:18 PM
    yeroc1982
    Nice write up!
  • 02-19-2011, 02:20 PM
    Strange_Evil
    This is really well illustrated and detailed. Great job:gj:
  • 02-19-2011, 02:40 PM
    RichieBoo
    Re: Vypyrz Tub Set-Up, The Basics...*DUW*
    Hi Vypyrz very helpful post..the black hides in your tub set up are what size and are they from reptile basics..what size tub is that...
  • 02-19-2011, 03:00 PM
    Vypyrz
    Re: Vypyrz Tub Set-Up, The Basics...*DUW*
    Quote:

    Originally Posted by RichieBoo View Post
    Hi Vypyrz very helpful post..the black hides in your tub set up are what size and are they from reptile basics..what size tub is that...

    Yes, they are Reptile Basics hides and they are the Medium size. That particular tub is a 32 quart tub.
  • 02-19-2011, 03:04 PM
    2kdime
    From experience, that sticky velcro is ten times stickier than duct tape and ten times as harmful when they knock it loose and get it stuck to them.
  • 02-19-2011, 10:34 PM
    Vypyrz
    Re: Vypyrz Tub Set-Up, The Basics...*DUW*
    I do have another way that can be used to mount the Acu-Rite type thermometers. I'll see if I have some half way decent pics of it.
  • 02-19-2011, 11:04 PM
    Vypyrz
    Re: Vypyrz Tub Set-Up, The Basics...*DUW*
    If you are using an Acu-Rite thermometer, or something similar with a hanging slot on the back, here is another way to mount it using standard hardware. These aren't the greatest photos because my camera doesn't do close-ups very well.

    You will need the following:
    1- screw
    2-washers
    2-nuts
    The screw head should be small enough for it to fit in the hanging slot and, depending on the size of your holes, the washers should be big enough to keep the nuts from passing through the holes.

    http://i1019.photobucket.com/albums/...s/HPIM0728.jpg

    First, take one of the nuts and put it on the screw approximately 1/8" or so from the head, then add a washer.

    http://i1019.photobucket.com/albums/...s/HPIM0733.jpg

    Insert the screw through the hole that you are using.

    http://i1019.photobucket.com/albums/...s/HPIM0742.jpg

    Add the other washer and then the nut and tighten down.

    http://i1019.photobucket.com/albums/...s/HPIM0474.jpg
  • 02-19-2011, 11:08 PM
    2kdime
    Good idea there too

    I like these better when I find that I want to use one and get them at Wally World as well

    I just temp gun the hot spot when I need to know what its at.

    http://www.klockit.com/products/dept-64__sku-32297.html
  • 02-20-2011, 04:23 PM
    jben
    Very nice writeup. :gj:
  • 02-20-2011, 11:51 PM
    AMBiEN22
    Re: Vypyrz Tub Set-Up, The Basics...*DUW*
    I saw your mini tutorial on this on another thread! again A+++ this is how i will be doing my rack system with slight modification aka. making all this work in a rack set up =P custom of course...

    This should be stickied! :gj:
  • 02-21-2011, 04:35 AM
    jsmorphs2
    Re: Vypyrz Tub Set-Up, The Basics...*DUW*
    Nice job on the tubs and write up. :gj:
  • 02-22-2011, 06:21 AM
    Vypyrz
    Re: Vypyrz Tub Set-Up, The Basics...*DUW*
    Thanks for all of the comments and suggestions.
  • 04-09-2011, 11:56 PM
    ocean girl
    I have a question. I just bought the same tub, how's your temps, because I can't get my cold side higher than 71-72. My hot side it fine.
    I also wondered, are you allowed to put the probe in the tub under the hot hide, appose to under the tub and under the heat mat?
    Wouldn't it be reading the temp a little different than what it would be if it were under the hide sitting on the bottom?
    I'm very new to all this and need advice.
  • 04-10-2011, 12:23 AM
    Juliemay13
    Re: Vypyrz Tub Set-Up, The Basics...*DUW*
    O.o awesome! Thank you :bow:
  • 04-10-2011, 12:52 AM
    Vypyrz
    Re: Vypyrz Tub Set-Up, The Basics...*DUW*
    Quote:

    Originally Posted by ocean girl View Post
    I have a question. I just bought the same tub, how's your temps, because I can't get my cold side higher than 71-72. My hot side it fine.
    I also wondered, are you allowed to put the probe in the tub under the hot hide, appose to under the tub and under the heat mat?
    Wouldn't it be reading the temp a little different than what it would be if it were under the hide sitting on the bottom?
    I'm very new to all this and need advice.

    The reason that the thermostat probe should be mounted directly to the heat pad is because it is what monitors the temperature of the pad and the thermostat knows when to turn it on and off. If you mount the thermostat probe inside the tub, there is a good chance that it will get urine on it, or the snake can knock it out of position. In either case, the thermostat will think that the heat pad temperature is too low and continue to run it, trying to get it up to the right temperature.
    You don't have to mount the thermostat probe under the pad like I did. The easiest way is to tape the probe to the bottom of the tub and then tape the heat pad over it. That way, the probe will be between the tub and heat pad. It will be protected from getting wet,or being moved and possibly damaged.

    For my ambient temperatures, I use a space heater to keep that particular room at around 80F. One thing to remember is the difference in our locations. It's alot easier for me to maintain a 80F ambient temp down here in North Carolina than it will be for you up in BC. I don't know what type of living situation you are in, but if there is any way that you can raise the temperature of either the room that the snake is in, or the entire home, to about 75-77F, it will make it so much easier. If this is not possible, then you may have to consider an extra heat pad for the cool side. I can't remember all of the members in Canada, but It might help to send a PM to either AKHerps, who is in Alaska, or Alexandra V, who is also in Canada and see how they deal with the colder temperatures. I wish I could be more helpful, but that's about all I can offer for now, but if I come across something that might help, I'll pass it along to you.
  • 04-10-2011, 01:07 AM
    MissDizzyBee
    Re: Vypyrz Tub Set-Up, The Basics...*DUW*
    Quote:

    Originally Posted by ocean girl View Post
    I have a question. I just bought the same tub, how's your temps, because I can't get my cold side higher than 71-72. My hot side it fine.
    I also wondered, are you allowed to put the probe in the tub under the hot hide, appose to under the tub and under the heat mat?
    Wouldn't it be reading the temp a little different than what it would be if it were under the hide sitting on the bottom?
    I'm very new to all this and need advice.

    I use a smaller UTH on the cool side set to an appropriate temp.
  • 04-10-2011, 01:41 AM
    ocean girl
    Okay thanks. I have my probe on the inside right now and it's taped down with foil tape, I heard that tape was bad as well. I only have a dimmer to lower the temp of the pad so it never shuts off its always the same. Maybe I should just switch back to the glass tank?
  • 04-10-2011, 02:13 AM
    Vypyrz
    Re: Vypyrz Tub Set-Up, The Basics...*DUW*
    Quote:

    Originally Posted by ocean girl View Post
    Okay thanks. I have my probe on the inside right now and it's taped down with foil tape, I heard that tape was bad as well. I only have a dimmer to lower the temp of the pad so it never shuts off its always the same. Maybe I should just switch back to the glass tank?

    Ah ok! We are talking about two different probes. You are talking about the Thermometer probe. Yes, it goes on the inside of the enclosure, under the substrate, above the heat pad. I was talking about the Thermostat probe, which would go on the outside between the enclosure and heat pad...
  • 04-10-2011, 02:23 AM
    ocean girl
    Oh okay! Thanks for clarifying that.
  • 04-10-2011, 02:38 AM
    Kymberli
    I love the idea of the mounting board taped down to the plastic grated racks! I have those exact racks in black, so I'll defiitely be setting those up with some mounting boards this week :) Thank you!
  • 10-04-2011, 08:34 PM
    mtc07d
    I plan on using tubs as my quarantine system and I really like the idea of mounting the UTH to a board that sits under the tub to make for easier moving, cleaning etc.. I had some extra pieces of panel board left over from a rack I just built and was wondering if it would be safe more me to mount the UTH directly to the panel board and place the tub over it? I know melamine is the favorite wood on this board, but I figured if I could I would just make use of what I have.
  • 11-05-2011, 04:37 PM
    Brion99
    I'm about to setup a 30q (Iris MCB-L) tub and want to know the minimum amount of holes I should start with (I'm a bit nervous about humidity levels after my fiasco with my tank experience), but want to make sure he's got enough ventilation in there. The tub will be in my bedroom so there will be a/c, and temps around 75.

    I've heard of putting holes low on hot side & higher on cool side, and then seen where holes are just drilled all the way around the top, so please be as specific as you can. Thx for any/all help.

    Oh, one other thing, I was told it was a necessity to cover 3 sides of my tank but I haven't seen one person mention doing so with a tub...is it ok without it?
  • 11-05-2011, 04:52 PM
    Vypyrz
    Re: Vypyrz Tub Set-Up, The Basics...*DUW*
    Quote:

    Originally Posted by Brion99 View Post
    I'm about to setup a 30q (Iris MCB-L) tub and want to know the minimum amount of holes I should start with (I'm a bit nervous about humidity levels after my fiasco with my tank experience), but want to make sure he's got enough ventilation in there. The tub will be in my bedroom so there will be a/c, and temps around 75.

    I've heard of putting holes low on hot side & higher on cool side, and then seen where holes are just drilled all the way around the top, so please be as specific as you can. Thx for any/all help.

    Oh, one other thing, I was told it was a necessity to cover 3 sides of my tank but I haven't seen one person mention doing so with a tub...is it ok without it?

    The number of holes really depends on where you are located. I would say maybe start with about 5-6 evenly spaced holes on the front and back. Set the tub up with heat, water bowls, etc, and watch it for a day or so. If the humidity is too high, then you can add a few more holes, until the humidity comes down to where you need it. What works for me is making two rows of holes on the front and back. I space the holes about 2 inches apart. Most tubs are small enough that placing the holes lower on one end and higher on the other is not needed. That is something that usually works for larger custom melamine and PVC enclosures.

    Since most tubs are opaque and not clear, it is usually not necessary to black out the sides, unless you want to.
  • 11-11-2011, 12:52 AM
    Brion99
    Re: Vypyrz Tub Set-Up, The Basics...*DUW*
    Quote:

    Originally Posted by Vypyrz View Post
    The number of holes really depends on where you are located. I would say maybe start with about 5-6 evenly spaced holes on the front and back. Set the tub up with heat, water bowls, etc, and watch it for a day or so. If the humidity is too high, then you can add a few more holes, until the humidity comes down to where you need it. What works for me is making two rows of holes on the front and back. I space the holes about 2 inches apart. Most tubs are small enough that placing the holes lower on one end and higher on the other is not needed. That is something that usually works for larger custom melamine and PVC enclosures.

    Since most tubs are opaque and not clear, it is usually not necessary to black out the sides, unless you want to.

    Well I put 5 holes in each side (wanted to start low), put in the water bowl, and put down newspaper and the numbers were ok....humidity was in the 53ish range (I'd give 'em now but the water dish spilled and it's all off....gonna go to Wal-Mart in a bit and get something more sturdy), but my worry now is if just those 5 holes is enough for a 30qt tub.....dunno how you put so many holes in and kept the humidity. This is really coming down to crunch time as I'm planning on going to the Tampa expo on Saturday and picking up something and want to make sure it's all setup when I get home. I'm still pretty new to all this (especially tubs) and still get really nervous about having the setup right so help is extremely appreciated.

    Oh, I tried the bungee cord thing and there was no way I could get them on & off without a massive disturbance in the tub so I'm just gonna put something heavy on top until I can find some kinda strap thing that I can loosen & tighten when takin the top on/off without scaring the hell outta the snake & upsetting the whole cage....any ideas?
  • 11-11-2011, 01:10 AM
    Vypyrz
    Re: Vypyrz Tub Set-Up, The Basics...*DUW*
    Quote:

    Originally Posted by Brion99 View Post
    Well I put 5 holes in each side (wanted to start low), put in the water bowl, and put down newspaper and the numbers were ok....humidity was in the 53ish range (I'd give 'em now but the water dish spilled and it's all off....gonna go to Wal-Mart in a bit and get something more sturdy), but my worry now is if just those 5 holes is enough for a 30qt tub.....dunno how you put so many holes in and kept the humidity. This is really coming down to crunch time as I'm planning on going to the Tampa expo on Saturday and picking up something and want to make sure it's all setup when I get home. I'm still pretty new to all this (especially tubs) and still get really nervous about having the setup right so help is extremely appreciated.

    Oh, I tried the bungee cord thing and there was no way I could get them on & off without a massive disturbance in the tub so I'm just gonna put something heavy on top until I can find some kinda strap thing that I can loosen & tighten when takin the top on/off without scaring the hell outta the snake & upsetting the whole cage....any ideas?

    Did you have the UTH on while you were checking it?
    I keep my humidity up by using larger UTH's that cover about 1/2 of my tubs floor space. This allows me to place the water bowls over the UTH so it evaporates faster.

    When you go to Wal-Mart, check in the luggage aisle and see if they have any luggage straps. I like them better than bungee cords because they are flat, and adjustable. They don't have to be super tight. Just tight enough to keep the lid from raising.
  • 11-11-2011, 01:22 AM
    Brion99
    Re: Vypyrz Tub Set-Up, The Basics...*DUW*
    Quote:

    Originally Posted by Vypyrz View Post
    Did you have the UTH on while you were checking it?
    I keep my humidity up by using larger UTH's that cover about 1/2 of my tubs floor space. This allows me to place the water bowls over the UTH so it evaporates faster.

    When you go to Wal-Mart, check in the luggage aisle and see if they have any luggage straps. I like them better than bungee cords because they are flat, and adjustable. They don't have to be super tight. Just tight enough to keep the lid from raising.

    Yeah, I have a good size UTH, but I kept the water on the cool side thinking that I'd put it on the hot side when I needed a boost for sheds. Should I put it over the UTH and maybe just add another water source when I need to raise it?...and I'll check on those straps, thx.
  • 11-11-2011, 03:57 AM
    Vypyrz
    Re: Vypyrz Tub Set-Up, The Basics...*DUW*
    Quote:

    Originally Posted by Brion99 View Post
    Should I put it over the UTH and maybe just add another water source when I need to raise it?...and I'll check on those straps, thx.

    That's pretty much what I do. I have some smaller water bowls that I will put in my smaller tubs if they need a boost. The water bowls that I use in my larger tubs are big enough that the humidity stays pretty much the same.
  • 11-13-2011, 10:48 AM
    Wobbilly5
    Thermostat probe
    The tubs in my rack from boaphile fit tight to the bottom of the rack and there is no space to tape to probe to the bottom of the tub. Would place the probe on the side of the tub by the heat tape be efficient or would it be better to tape it to the bottom/inside of the tub?
  • 11-13-2011, 12:49 PM
    ball-pythons
    i want to try this setup in the future an possibly switch to it for good, looks clean and looks like a cheaper setup by far - thanks for sharing!
  • 11-24-2011, 07:22 PM
    ball-pythons
    not sure if the creator of this thread still checks it but.. if so can u message me with what kind of thermostat you are using to run all the uth's or do you use several :confused:

    thanks
  • 11-25-2011, 12:40 AM
    Vypyrz
    Re: Vypyrz Tub Set-Up, The Basics...*DUW*
    Quote:

    Originally Posted by ball-pythons View Post
    not sure if the creator of this thread still checks it but.. if so can u message me with what kind of thermostat you are using to run all the uth's or do you use several :confused:

    thanks

    That set-up is being controlled by a Herpstat Pro. Yes, that may be overkill for a tub set-up, but I bought that thermostat to control the eventual permanent PVC cages that I would need as my snakes out grow their tubs.
  • 01-04-2012, 01:18 PM
    nikitajane25
    So heat pads, and flextape won't melt the plastic bins?
  • 01-04-2012, 01:24 PM
    Vypyrz
    Re: Vypyrz Tub Set-Up, The Basics...*DUW*
    Quote:

    Originally Posted by nikitajane25 View Post
    So heat pads, and flextape won't melt the plastic bins?

    As long as you are using a thermostat to control the heat source, no, it will not melt the plastic.
  • 02-23-2012, 12:04 AM
    nickxshort
    I would love to know where you got the shelves and cabinet if you don't mind. They are exactly what I want! Great setup btw :-)
  • 02-25-2012, 04:13 PM
    Vypyrz
    Re: Vypyrz Tub Set-Up, The Basics...*DUW*
    Quote:

    Originally Posted by nickxshort View Post
    I would love to know where you got the shelves and cabinet if you don't mind. They are exactly what I want! Great setup btw :-)

    I got them at either Lowes or Home Depot. They both sell those type of plastic shelving. Since they are designed to be stacked as a unit, I did have to make some modifications to brace the legs for the second set so that it didn't wobble. If you need photos on how I did that, just let me know...
  • 06-19-2012, 09:51 AM
    Torch77
    Re: Vypyrz Tub Set-Up, The Basics...*DUW*
    What size tubs would you recommend for average size BP's? This is a clean set up. You mentioned getting a PVC cage, is this because tubs are not a permanent solution? I like the tubs but only want to switch if it's a lasting solution. I have wood enclosure and it's too difficult to regulate temp and humidity.
  • 06-19-2012, 10:01 AM
    Aes_Sidhe
    Average size of tubs for average size...If you talking about Adults...32qt is fine if You have very large female You should go with 41 qt for her
  • 06-19-2012, 01:43 PM
    Vypyrz
    Re: Vypyrz Tub Set-Up, The Basics...*DUW*
    Quote:

    Originally Posted by Torch77 View Post
    What size tubs would you recommend for average size BP's? This is a clean set up. You mentioned getting a PVC cage, is this because tubs are not a permanent solution? I like the tubs but only want to switch if it's a lasting solution. I have wood enclosure and it's too difficult to regulate temp and humidity.

    You can use tubs as a permanent solution as long as it meets your snakes requirements. My BP does just fine in his tub, however, most of my boas are outgrowing their tubs and need the space of the larger pvc enclosures.
  • 07-01-2012, 01:04 AM
    I-KandyReptiles
    Quote:

    Originally Posted by Vypyrz View Post
    You can use tubs as a permanent solution as long as it meets your snakes requirements. My BP does just fine in his tub, however, most of my boas are outgrowing their tubs and need the space of the larger pvc enclosures.

    Also, some people like to use PVC for a display cage.

    My one bp(soon to be 3!) is in a display tank. He's my pet, and in my room whereas my rack will be downstairs. My pickups will be in this tub set up until my rack is ordered.

    Bobbas tank::

    http://img.tapatalk.com/d15b6b82-da63-31a0.jpg
  • 08-20-2012, 10:47 PM
    Beccanin
    I'm not sure if these next questions are silly or not, I'm just nervous about doing anything wrong as it's my first time trying to make one of these set ups!

    So you need a slight gap between the tub and heat mat to allow air circulation but I'm wondering about what you put the heatmat on, like the underside of it. I'm going to put my tub onto a wooden dresser, it wouldn't burn it would it? Also how big should the gap between rub and mat be?
  • 08-24-2012, 11:40 PM
    Vypyrz
    Re: Vypyrz Tub Set-Up, The Basics...*DUW*
    Quote:

    Originally Posted by Beccanin View Post
    I'm not sure if these next questions are silly or not, I'm just nervous about doing anything wrong as it's my first time trying to make one of these set ups!

    So you need a slight gap between the tub and heat mat to allow air circulation but I'm wondering about what you put the heatmat on, like the underside of it. I'm going to put my tub onto a wooden dresser, it wouldn't burn it would it? Also how big should the gap between rub and mat be?

    Alot of the tubs have recessed bottoms, so, by only taping the sides of the Under Tank Heater to the tub, there will still be a small space between the center of the pad and the tub for circulation, and it's also a good spot for the thermostat probe to be placed. The gap doesn't have to be very large. Maybe 3-5 mm or so.

    If you want to place the tub on a dresser, I would suggest getting another piece of wood to set the tub and heat pad on. The tub shouldn't get hot enough to damage the dresser, but I would rather not take the chance. You can probably find a piece of scrap plywood at a home improvement store, or even a shelf from an old bookcase or computer desk, or anything like that.

    - - - Updated - - -

    I noticed that you are in the UK. I don't know which thermostat controllers are available on the European market. One of the forum admins, Dr. Del, may be able to help you there. He is also in the UK. The only one that I know of is the Habistat...

    http://www.amazon.co.uk/Euro-Rep-Hab.../dp/B002SQM4US
  • 10-19-2012, 12:52 PM
    joefer13
    So you just have the tubs laying directly on the heat pads then? When attached to the melamine
  • 10-19-2012, 05:01 PM
    Vypyrz
    Quote:

    Originally Posted by joefer13 View Post
    So you just have the tubs laying directly on the heat pads then? When attached to the melamine

    Yes, I have the heat pads and thermostat probes attached to tbe melamine, and the tubs just sit on top. That way, when I have to move the tubs for cleaning, I don't have to mess with the cords. That allows me to keep two tubs for each snake. I set up a clean tub, put the snake in it, set it on the heat pad, dump the dirty bedding in the trash, stack the dirty tubs, take them all out at once for washing with soap and water, then I use disinfectant, and stack them back in the closet, ready for the next cleaning day...

    Sent from my Motorola ATRIX using Tapatalk 2.
  • 02-13-2013, 10:08 AM
    macho9714
    Hey Vypyrz,

    I just set up this set up for my bp and I am having trouble getting the humidity to stay down. I have about 10 holes on either side and the humidity just keeps going up to 99%. any suggestions?
  • 02-13-2013, 10:28 AM
    Mike41793
    Vypyrz Tub Set-Up, The Basics...*DUW*
    Quote:

    Originally Posted by macho9714 View Post
    Hey Vypyrz,

    I just set up this set up for my bp and I am having trouble getting the humidity to stay down. I have about 10 holes on either side and the humidity just keeps going up to 99%. any suggestions?

    What are you reading the humidity with?
  • 02-13-2013, 10:33 AM
    macho9714
    Re: Vypyrz Tub Set-Up, The Basics...*DUW*
    Quote:

    Originally Posted by Mike41793 View Post
    What are you reading the humidity with?

    Accurite Digital Thermometer with 10 ft. Temperature Sensor Probe & Humidity / Clock 00891W3
    http://www.acurite.com/weather/therm...red-probe.html
  • 02-13-2013, 10:34 AM
    Mike41793
    Vypyrz Tub Set-Up, The Basics...*DUW*
    Quote:

    Originally Posted by macho9714 View Post
    Accurite Digital Thermometer with 10 ft. Temperature Sensor Probe & Humidity / Clock 00891W3
    http://www.acurite.com/weather/therm...red-probe.html

    Hm.. Let it sit for an hour or so and see if it levels off.
  • 02-13-2013, 10:36 AM
    macho9714
    Re: Vypyrz Tub Set-Up, The Basics...*DUW*
    Quote:

    Originally Posted by Mike41793 View Post
    Hm.. Let it sit for an hour or so and see if it levels off.

    This is after i let it sit over night. I just added more holes and dumped some water out of the water dish.
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