What size heat tape do you use?

[benwallage9]

Right now I'm using 4'' heat tape on my breeders rack. I have two stripes side by side running down one foot, so my heating area is 8'' by 12''. I'm about to build a new rack which will hold 58 qt (23L x 17w x 13h) tubs I was thinking of running a single 4'' strip along the back as belly heat. however i was looking online and saw 3'' is a little cheaper so I could get more for my money. I'm a little worried that the ambient temps won't be high enough and I won't cover enough area with 3''. Also I can't solder very well, does anyone have a better way to connect heat tape besides solder and the expensive heat tape connectors? Let me know what you guys use on your racks and what you think thanks

[snakesRkewl]

We use 4 inch on hatchling racks and under 28qt tubs and we use 11x12 inch under 40/41 qt tubs.
If you use smaller heat tape you'll probably want a little higher ambient room temperature because 3 inch and 4 inch heat tape does little for ambient temps in large tubs.

[EverEvolvingExotics]

I do the same as above. I use 3" on anything up to 32qt and 11" on the 41qts. Since I don't have a heated room I place 2 11" pieces of heat tape running up the backs of my rack to keep the ambient temps up. It works well for me.

[Simple Man]

I only use 3" on hatchlings. You aren't going to keep heat up with 3" and 58 qt IMO. Not going to happen. I use 4" on 15/32qt everything else belly heat. I would use 11" on 58qt tub.

Regards,

B

[RichsBallPythons]

I use 3" on any size rack. if your room isnt heated well or consistently then using 2 strips if 3" on 28qt and 11" on 41qt may help.

But in room temp 75+ no need for bigger than 3"

[Robyn@SYR]

Yep, 3" in every application. When we did giant species, burms and such, we heated the 6 ft Vision cages with the 3" heat tape, creates a fine hot spot.

Heat tape is a great supplemental heat source, to create a hot spot. Ambient temp should be achieved through different means, preferably some type of room heater/system.

[Stewart_Reptiles]

3 inches tape for everyone.

[Amon Ra Reptiles]

3" 10watt for everything