Temperature Questions

Hey everyone, I was just wondering what are appropriate temperatures for the hot and cold side for a 20 gal tank. I've gotten varying answers on it and just wanted to make sure.
Thanks!

I would have an ambient temp of 80 and a hotspot of 90.

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Originally Posted by martin82531

I would have an ambient temp of 80 and a hotspot of 90.

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This is true regardless of the cage size.

So would a infrared bulb be the best bet in getting the temp up? because on the cold side it always stays around like 73 and i feel like that's too cold for him

Under tank heaters are your best, but you need a thermostat for it because it can get hot enough to burn the snake. Also you want to get a reliable thermometer so you are getting accurate temperature readings.

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Originally Posted by Paul_Woods93

So would a infrared bulb be the best bet in getting the temp up? because on the cold side it always stays around like 73 and i feel like that's too cold for him

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infrared bulb are garbage. Use ceramic.

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Originally Posted by Rickys_Reptiles

infrared bulb are garbage. Use ceramic.

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I'm going to get him situated, or try. Since he's from the same city I am that way he gets everything ideal.

any suggestions on a good reliable thermometer? Right now I'm using two zoomed digital thermometers but i have the feeling they aren't too accurate

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Originally Posted by Paul_Woods93

any suggestions on a good reliable thermometer? Right now I'm using two zoomed digital thermometers but i have the feeling they aren't too accurate

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They're not. Acurite is a good one, but they have different models. Infrared temp gun gives you the most accurate readings. It's what I use to accurately measure the temps though I do use the acurite thermometer as a guide basically.

I like this one

http://amzn.com/B00BDN2ILC

Once I get off of work I'm gonna head and find digital thermometers and hydrometers that are a lot more accurate than what I'm using now. My last question is what would be a good way to heat up both sides of the tank, mainly the cool side.

Would you happen to have any advice with heating up the cool side of the tank?

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Originally Posted by Paul_Woods93

Would you happen to have any advice with heating up the cool side of the tank?

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is your screen top covered already?

half of the tank is covered with a damp towel

try a ceramic emitter.