Need advice on coconut chips in rack system

[KingPythons]

In recent times, I have transitioned from using newspaper as a substrate to coconut chips for heating. While I have successfully adjusted the humidity levels, I am curious about the optimal temperature settings for coconut chips.
When using newspaper, I have found that maintaining a thermostat setting of 91 degrees Fahrenheit allows for a comfortable hot spot between 90 and 91.5 degrees Fahrenheit within a room temperature range of 68 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. However, when using coconut chips, I have discovered that I need to increase the thermostat setting to 95 degrees Fahrenheit to achieve a similar hot spot in the tubs(88.6 degrees). This adjustment is surprising, as I did not anticipate such a significant difference in heating requirements.
I have conducted several tests with both substrates and have reached a point where I am considering increasing the thermostat setting to 96 or 97 degrees Fahrenheit. The coconut chips create a substrate that is approximately as thick as a fingernail, extending from the tub floor to the top of the coconut chips.
Despite my limited experience with coconut chips, I am eager to improve my heating setup. I am considering purchasing a new temperature gun, although I have dropped it twice in the past two years. I would appreciate any guidance or insights you may have regarding the optimal temperature settings for coconut chips.


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[Gobuchul]

Make sure you read temp on the tub at the bottom of the substrate, not just on top of the substrate. The snake will displace the chips under its hide and touch the tub surface.

[KingPythons]

That’s good input. I have to say I didn’t hit the tub itself with the temp gun. I just assume top substrate temp was the goal.


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[Bogertophis]

That’s good input. I have to say I didn’t hit the tub itself with the temp gun. I just assume top substrate temp was the goal.


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That's how many snakes get "burned"- they dig under or accidentally push the substrate away. Also, for UTH to work best, it shouldn't be too deep over UTH- you want the heat to rise, & if substrate is too deep or dense, it acts as insulation & can wear out the overheating UTH faster. for asking.

[KingPythons]

That's how many snakes get "burned"- they dig under or accidentally push the substrate away. Also, for UTH to work best, it shouldn't be too deep over UTH- you want the heat to rise, & if substrate is too deep or dense, it acts as insulation & can wear out the overheating UTH faster. for asking.

I’m currently using the VE CB70 rack, which requires 4” heat tape. So, I’ll monitor the temperature of the tub instead of the substrate. I initially thought a fingernail-sized depth of coco chips was proper, but I completely understand your point. It’s definitely a trial-and-error process. I’m particularly concerned about not wearing out the heat tape and potentially burning my animals. Just wanted to see if bumping the stat 4-5 degrees up is typically normal on such substrate. Seems I have some monitoring to do


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[KingPythons]

Well I dried up some coconut chunks. 3/4 of the tube are almost completely dry. I did happen to reach a goal of 90% on front of tub with water bowl and 60-86% towards the back of tub. Still working on the goldy locks range for humidity. Temps are now good. Just seemed like it took awhile to achieve the right temp. I was really concerned with humidity being at 100%. Only took five days to figure it out sort of. Some days it rains five days, somewhere lol.


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