The Accurite is a thermometer and only measures the temperature. A Thermostat will control the heat output of your UTH and you can get a Reptitemp 500R for about $30 which will work great on a one snake setup. I used one for a year in the past and never had a problem. A active ball python is a stressed ball python which is normal for a new snake in a new environment. Leave him completely alone for at least a week before trying to feed him so he can get settled in! Congrats and good luck!