New to UTH, Thermostat w/ questions

[BuddhaLuv]

Okay now that I have my UTH and ReptiTemp500R Thermostat I have questions I have read all sorts of past threads about the foil tape for adhering the UTH etc.. I have a 20 gallon tank and have switched to paper towels for subtrate. I wanted to make sure I knew what I was doing before I set it all up and goof somewhere

1. I found this thread posting and wanted some opinions since it was posted in '04! A method to prevent tank cracking, over heating, and generally promote more even heat (without hot spots) is to not stick your UTH directly on the tank. Instead, stick the UTH to a ceramic or porcelain tile and slide the tile under one end of the tank.

The benefits are:

a) Inexpensive- an 8x10 inch tile is about $1.50 (USD)
b) Prevents a tank from cracking
c) It’s movable- can be used on future tanks
d) Prevents hot spots by allowing airflow between the pad and the glass.
e) It’s easier to clean the cage (moving it etc.)

Has anyone tried this with any success recently? Do you think it's sound advice?

2. I was going to simply raise his tank on wood blocks and adhere the UTH with Foil Tape to the bottom of the tank. That way it allows air flow below the UTH. Do you all think I should try #1 instead?

3. I read some where on here not to remove the paper that comes on the UTH sticky part. But instead to simply place the Foil Tape directly on the paper. However, my concern is that it has a big ol' warning to make sure you remove the paper! Any suggestions here?

4. I currently have a heat lamp in use. Should I remove the heat lamp once I have the UTH and thermostat up and running?

[mrshawt]

I'd say go with 2. It's tried and true, it even works on plastic tubs without melting them. If a UTH is kept around 92-94, there is little risk of the glass stress cracking unless a bunch of water is spilled on it. By the way, the UTH should have come with little plastic nublets that go on the bottom of the tank - they will elevate it slightly and allow for airflow.

3. I removed my paper, then put foil tape over the sticky side. I think most people say not to remove it so there's no stickiness.

4. Yes.

[BuddhaLuv]

Okay I will stick with the tried and true route with the foil tape Thank you for your input!! I will also make sure that I remove his heat lamp!!