Heat Tape Question / Suggestions

[kdraw]

Good afternoon everyone! I recently built a rack for my scaly critters and I'm at the point that I need to add some heat. I have 34 quart Sterilite tubs and I plan to use 4" heat tape (Flexwatt or THG). I am wondering, should I put the tape along the long side of the tub (approx. 2 feet of heat tape per tub) or along the short side of the tub (approx. 1 foot per tub) or does it even matter? I was thinking along the short side to create a greater heat gradient. Also, what would be the best way to attach the heat tape? Foil tape to the bottom of the shelf is what I was thinking. I live in Central Florida, so the winter temps are not a huge concern as my house rarely gets below 70 degrees and the rack is enclosed on three sides so I'm hoping there will be a little bit of heat build-up to boost the ambient temps a couple of degrees.

I will post pics of the rack as soon as I can go through the forums to figure out how to do it .

Any comments and or suggestions are greatly appreciated.

Kevin

[Meerna]

I believe along the short side is usually the norm, but I don't own a rack yet so I'm no expert.

[kdraw]

OK...so here I go with my pictures (fingers crossed)>>>



Yes, I'm aware that the tubs are small for the enclosure, but I had to build it to fit my Beardie's 40 gal glass tank on the top. Unfortunately, I will have to make sure I always replace the tub to the same spot on the heat tape.

Thanks again for looking.