Adopted Ball obviously not cared for right. first time owner need help.

[bcr229]

Will the layer of woodchips not protect her from burn?

No, ball pythons burrow, she will push the wood chips around.

Will the heat from the halogen bulb be sufficient for a week and a half? (next pay period)

It should be ok.

Our house is usually pretty cold.

In Florida? I thought you guys were warm this time of year.

Would it work to have the pad on at night and the bulb during the day?

No, a heat pad can get hot enough to burn in 10-15 minutes.