Question on cool side bedding/hide temps

[CobraCatcher]

I have a 75 watt infrared heat bulb keeping the ambient cool side temp at 81-84.
I've used my temp gun on the bedding and outer surface of the cool side hide, and the surface temps range from 88 to 99.
Is this ok, since the ambient temp seems the most referenced temp and not surface temps?

[GregsMoko]

I'd say that the cool side surface temp (closer to his cool hide) should be about 78 -81 degrees with his warmer side of 90. You'll obviously have fluctuation in between each side as it goes warmest to coolest. Especially with a temp gun. Maybe get a lower wattage heat lamp, 99 is getting up there. How's the humidity?

[GregsMoko]

You also might want to check the distance of the lamp, sometimes moving them a little higher helps reduce heating problems. In your case it may even the temps a little better. As well help with a more consistent humidity level. Food for thought

[CobraCatcher]

Thanks Greg, I'll try raising the light up above the tank a couple of inches.
The humidity is holding anywhere from 40% to 52% using only 2 damp paper towels laying in the tank.
We only have to wet them once in the morning, when we get home from work, and one more time before bed. This seems to be the best way that we have been able to maintain a consistent humidity level.

[GregsMoko]

That's fine but if you have a screen top, like I do, you may try 2/3rds covered with tin foil, lay a small towel over the whole top then just mist the1/3 open area, its what I do and I manage 60% humidity all the time.

[GregsMoko]

Sorry I forgot you use a lamp, I have a uth that I use

[CobraCatcher]

That's fine but if you have a screen top, like I do, you may try 2/3rds covered with tin foil, lay a small towel over the whole top then just mist the1/3 open area, its what I do and I manage 60% humidity all the time.

We also have a screen top, although we have it a bit more than 2/3 covered with foil.
When we went thru our first shed with her, the towel on top trick got us up to the recommended 70% humidity.

[CatandDiallo]

using only 2 damp paper towels laying in the tank.

What do you mean laying in the tank?

[CobraCatcher]

What do you mean laying in the tank?

We just wet them down, wring them out lightly, fold them in half length wise and set them in between the back wall and water dish.