So I got a dimmer and I was able to get the surface temp down to about 95 at the lowest setting, closer to 92 once I added some foil to dissipate some of the extra heat. I got one of those Acurite monitors, as suggested. So far the ambient temp is around 80, kinda fluctuates between 75 and 80. Humidity is at about 65%. Where are you mounting it? I have it on the inside, on a wall about 6 or 7 inches above the substrate. As far as the hide issue, I experimented with some different sized boxes. I think the hides I was using were a bit too big for his comfort. We seem to have found one that he likes and went right into it once I placed him back in the tub. He hasn't been out, since. Ahaha. So I guess that's a good sign.

I'm kinda not liking how the UTH is working. The surface temp is really inconsistent. Some spots are hotter than others, by about 4 degrees. I might order some of that Flex Watt after I receive the thermostat and see if I get better results.

Here's a pic of him chillin' on his warm spot.