So I recently got a Normal Ball Python named Udon. I bought a 40gal snake kit Zoo Med tank from petsmart and I’m having difficulty keeping the temperature and humidity right.

First with the Temperature.
There is a 16w UTH that I am using with a Thermostat. The temperature on the hot side won’t get hot enough when I set my thermostat to 90 degrees. It stays around 78-80. There is about 1/4 to 1/2 inch of coconut fiber substrate. So I have been trying to compensate by raising its temperature and I have a 75 watt basking bulb trying to bring the temperature up. It is not working. The temperature on the cool side sits at 73-75 degrees. I know that is to low.

Now for Humidity.
i was using aspen bedding but the humidity kept falling to 40%. I was having to spray the tank multiple times a day to bring it up. I switch to coconut fiber cause I read that it hold water better and will help with humidity. There is a large water dish as well. So now the humidity was staying between 50-65 when I put a wet towel on one side of the top. I checked last night and it was at 80 so I took the towels off and that helped.

im not sure what else to do because I feel like I’m just chasing these temperatures and humidity levels and it’s wearing me out.