first week as a new owner, can use some input

[Eric Alan]

Yah, that does, thanks

So, here's the todo:

• Remove the UTH from the side, put it on the bottom
• Have the thermostat sensor sit between the UTH and the glass (so it doesn't get peed on)
• Have that one set to 90 degrees
• Duplicate the same setup on the right side of the tank, but set to 80 degrees (or 92/82 because of the substrate, liner and glass that could cause heat loss before it reaches his belly)
• Remove the heat lamp if the temperature is okay
• Relax

Anything I missed?

I'd suggest moving your last step to your first step, but other than that - PERFECT!

MootWorm already eluded to it, but you may be able to do without the second UTH or the overhead lamp depending on the temperature of the room that your tank is in. Once you have your primary UTH moved and the temperature steady on the warm side, measure the temp on both the floor on that side and the floor on the other side. If it's 76-80 on the cool side, then you don't have to spend the extra money on a second heating setup.

- - - Updated - - -

Oh okay, that helps explain it, too.

Just how hot can those UTHs get?

Well over 100 degrees left unattended.