+1 to Sauzo. Get that temp gun and 95% of your issues with heat will "dissipate." Also, IMO local pet shops and especially big box pet stores are AWFUL at giving out any type of herp advice. Usually they are in the business of slingin' second hand reptiles and anything they can get their hands on. Simply disregard them, move on and seek the advice of established breeders and enthusiasts like you have been doing.