Ball python rack heating

[BCS]

I use 2 snake racks that are 3 1/2 foot tall. They both have 12" heat tape along the back of the rack in one long strip. The cords stick on the top of the rack. The first tub has heat of 88.0F and the lower you go the lower the temps. The bottom tub is 79.9F. So obviously this is a problem. Why would one end be colder then the other? I use a herpstat but it only comes with one probe and no option to add anymore. If I stick the props in the bottom tub the heat rises to 88.0F but then the top tub raises to 96.4F which is too hot. Why is this happening and how can I fix it? Any advice?

[Eric Alan]

Where are you putting the probe itself? Pictures would be awesome if you're able to do so.

[BCS]

The probe is about 1-2 inches from the back of the tub. I do not have photos currently.

[Eric Alan]

The probe is about 1-2 inches from the back of the tub. I do not have photos currently.

On the inside of the tub?

[BCS]

Yes, on the inside.

[bcr229]

First, the probe needs to be outside the tub, usually it's sandwiched between the tape and the back wall of the rack. If you put it in the tub the snake can move it. It needs to be placed where nothing interferes with it.

Second, heat rises so it's normal that your top tubs will be warmer than those on the bottom, especially with back heat. It sounds like your rack is giving you the same behavior no matter where you put the probe. One of mine is the same way, I just run BRB's in the bottom few tubs and BP's above them. I've found that belly/bottom heat is more consistent than back heat in a tall rack.

[Eric Alan]

I don't use back heat in any of my racks, but I'd be willing to bet that the temps would be more consistent with the probe placed directly on the tape as well (I use a small strip of clear packing tape to "seatbelt" the probe flat against the tape in my racks).

[BCS]

It would not make sense to put the probe right on the heat tape as my tubs do not come into direct contact with the tape... and the ball pythons do not interfere with the probe as it is glued to the wall of the tub. Because of there being no space on the bottom of the tubs, I cannot put the heat tape on the bottom. The tubs are tight as it is. I took the back off of the rack and I think I figured out the problem. The bottom part of the heat tape was crunched and was providing no heat. I put new heat tape down and so far so good but they are still warming up so I will see in the next few minutes.