cermaic heatlamps vs sticky heatpads; which to continue using

[Lolo76]

I use a ceramic lamp in my gecko tank, since it's too thick for a UTH - plus their humidity requirements aren't that strict, so a humid hide is sufficient during sheds. But for a ball python most would recommend an under-tank heater, since as you have noticed, the lamps will suck out your humidity. Plus there's a danger of the snake getting burned, unless you have some kind of "cage" around the heat lamp.

If you have glass terrariums, there shouldn't be any danger in the substrate catching fire... the heater goes UNDER the tank, not inside of it, so it shouldn't even touch their bedding. I'd recommend a ZooMed 30-40gal size for each tank, unless your ambient house temperature is pretty warm (in which case you can get the 10-20gal size for the smaller tank). And while you can stick it on the side, it's really better for their digestion to get belly heat. I have flexwatt belly heat in my rack, and none of my 7 snakes or tubs have melted yet. Good luck!