Some back story might be needed. I'm not really a newbie to snakes, in fact I had a membership here 4 years ago but I completely forgot my username. (Sorry for the innactive membership as a result) I built a snake rack and bred mice and eventually bred my snakes, as well. I successfully hatched 3 of 5 eggs. These were cornsnakes. I eventually had to rehome the snakes because of some personal variables. With that said, I am eager to get a pet snake. (not really to breed for many years)

Here is the dillemma:
My cornsnakes did not need high ambient or cold side temperature due to where I live and whatnot. I am interested in many species, however hognose have really caught my attention. They need a warmer cold side than what my house would naturally provide.


Bottom line: Because my experience with snakes has only been cornsnakes, I really don't know how to heat the cold side with out warming the entire room for only one snake. My idea is to get a second strip of heat tape and warm both sides of the tub that way. But would that cause a wierd colder transition stage between both sides? Or maybe I should get a wide strip and heat the majority of the tube to whatever the neccesary cold side temp is, then a second 4" strip that is the actual hot spot? Any ideas are appreciated. This snake will be my little companion through the next several years of college and Veterinary school. If there just isnt a way to heat the rack and not the room, then I will get a kingsnake or a cornsnake. Thank you!

P.S. I really did try to find a specific answer to this question, but maybe my search technique is lacking. Sorry that this has probably been answered a thousand times.