Oh...I didn't know the Acurite would read from the actual unit AND the probe. That's perfect!

As for the lights, My tank is very tall, around 25-30" which is why I use higher wattage bulbs. The lower wattage ones don't do much in the way of heating the bottom of the tank where he needs it, so I need at least 100W. The 150s got WAY too hot.

As far as color of the night bulb, I agree the red ones produce more heat, but he absolutely WOULD NOT come of of his hide with the red bulb on. He comes out every night(as long as he hasn't just been fed) as soon as his day light clicks off at 7pm, but stayed hidden with the red bulb. He is always out at 5am when my girlfriend gets up for work....still no. As soon as I put the black one back in....he came right out. So there was something about it he didn't like.

I appreciate the info...and will let you know what I find out after I put in the Acurite. I'm sure Wasabi (my snake) will appreciate it as well!