You're right that you are only supposed to do water changes and spot cleaning - for the first week. Leave the snake totally alone for at least 7 days to let them get settled and used to things. Also, if you have a tank set up make sure the back and both sides are covered and insulated and that the screen top is treated with plexiglass or foil for humidity stability.

And the quietest (but still stable temp wise) room is usually the best. I keep my snakes in the bedroom whenever possible, as it's warm and quiet. My skink, by contrast, is always in the living room with his cage facing the TV as he loves watching movies and video games.