With my displays i have control of all my heat sources. If you don't use a thermostat you need a least a dimmer. $10 at Home Depot. How deep is your substrate ? People often miss that the deeper the substrate the further away from the UTH. Check the wattage on your lamp. You'll probably need a 75w with a 40g tank.
Is your UTH the right size for a 40g tank ? For the extra humidity, like said you can cover the tank with foil. I use a damp cloth during the winter months and during a shed in the summer. You'll get a 20% increase in your humidity. Winter months are much dryer in your house. Your house heater will zap the humidity.