Use a UTH. If used properly, it should heat your entire tank. Be sure to connect it to a thermostat, otherwise it will burn your snake. If you use the four little rubber feet that come with it, it shouldn't burn your furniture, but if you're putting it on an antique I'd still put a towel under the tank to be safe. Only use a lamp if you have to, and be sure to use a bulb designed for reptiles. Again, hook it up to a Tstat. The downside to this is the bulb sucks your humidity. You'll have to spray your snake a lot more if you use a lamp. If you live in a very cold climate, and don't have your house heat up high, you might need both. Don't put your tank against an exterior wall, this will help with keeping temps stable. Also, get your tank and equipment a week or two before the snake. Set it up, and make sure the temps are correct. When they are stable, you can bring in the snake.