Heating help!

[ballpythonluvr]

It really is safer to just use a thermostat versus a dimmer switch. I have used dimmer switches in the past and I had a hell of a time keeping temperatures steady. The OP really is better off just spending a little money to get a thermostat. Why risk harming your animal when there are cheaper thermostats available to get the job done?

[dr del]

Sorry if I missed this;

Have you tried insulating the back, sides and bottom of the tank? I have used both polystyrene and cork tiles in the past.

The easiest way to check a rheostat is still a lightbulb - you can see instantly if it is working.

[gameonpython]

Thanks for the replies! I have a big thick foam background on the back. I think I will pick up a new dimmer today, and then order a thermostat online.

Lunasjy, I already have a heat lamp but it's still not helping enough.


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[tbowman]

Well it seems you may have located the root of your respiratory problem. 70 degrees is too cool to keep a ball python healthy over a period of time. If your CHE is not doing the job correctly, buy a more powerful one and attach it to a dimmer switch until you have an appropriate ambient temperature. Any treatment regimen you take will prove ineffective until you fix this issue.

[Sauzo]

Poor snake, doesn't he already have an RI too? Just go to any grow shop or nursery and buy a Hydrofarm. They aren't a Herpstat but they work fine for UTHs and are about $35. And I cant see how you cant get ambients above 70F with even a CHE. Are you using a 60 watt or something? Bump it up to a 100 watt or 150 watt with a lamp dimmer inline to control it.

[gameonpython]

The Che is 150 watt and is on a dimmer. Maybe my Thermometer is broken too? I got a dimmer and will order the hydro farm.


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[gameonpython]

Oh, and his RI is starting to clear up. He's in shed and is eating well so that's good right?


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[DVirginiana]

What kind of thermometer are you using? It's been awhile, but do I remember you have one of those tankside thermometers that petstores sell? (If I'm thinking of someone else, sorry, it's been awhile) If so, then you need a different type; one of the digital ones should work fine. Those tankside thermometers are terrible.

[gameonpython]

Well, I have 3 different thermometers. Temp gun, zoomed(or exoterra?) digital with probe, and an analog thermometer(yes, it is crap, but for 5$ why not?)


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[gameonpython]

Well the light dimmer is doing the trick for now, trying to find the time to order a thermostat and some new thermometers. Can anyone suggest any to buy(make sure it is Canadian version please)?

On a good note, Marshall shed well tonight (I got to watch!) it came off in about 3 pieces, but came off with ease. I think he was kind of squishing it lol. His RI has calmed down majorly, I held him for a while today and I only heard one squeak the entire time and no more bubbles! Have a good night everyone


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