Heat Tape Question(s)

[kdraw]

I've done some searching through the forums and it seems that 4" heat tape is what most people use in their rack setups. I have my snakes in 32 quart Sterilite tubs and I installed 4" heat tape; however, it does not cover the recommended 1/4 to 1/3 of the bottom of the tub. Although it seems to be heating enough, wouldn't it be better to use 12" heat tape so the entire snake could fit onto the heated area?

Also, I have my t-stat probe between the heat tape and the tub as many of the instruction on here suggest along with the t-stat set about 8 degrees warmer to achieve the recommended 88-90 degrees for my snakes. Because of the shape of the bottom of the tub, I have some areas that get up to about 92 and others as low as 85. Is this normal (I am using an infrared temp gun)?

I consider myself a bit of a noob since I'm returning from a 15+ year hiatus of reptile keeping and a lot of information and recommendations have changed considerably. I appreciate any help/suggestions/criticism. I have a couple of pics of my rack setup in my profile pics.

[Albert Clark]

I've done some searching through the forums and it seems that 4" heat tape is what most people use in their rack setups. I have my snakes in 32 quart Sterilite tubs and I installed 4" heat tape; however, it does not cover the recommended 1/4 to 1/3 of the bottom of the tub. Although it seems to be heating enough, wouldn't it be better to use 12" heat tape so the entire snake could fit onto the heated area?

Also, I have my t-stat probe between the heat tape and the tub as many of the instruction on here suggest along with the t-stat set about 8 degrees warmer to achieve the recommended 88-90 degrees for my snakes. Because of the shape of the bottom of the tub, I have some areas that get up to about 92 and others as low as 85. Is this normal (I am using an infrared temp gun)?

I consider myself a bit of a noob since I'm returning from a 15+ year hiatus of reptile keeping and a lot of information and recommendations have changed considerably. I appreciate any help/suggestions/criticism. I have a couple of pics of my rack setup in my profile pics.

Question# 1- The size of the heat tape is mostly optional. 12" heat tape is very wide and probably is better for a very large animal but is mostly used as a back heat option in rack systems.

# 2- The minute fluctuations are normal in heat tapes. Whats more important is to double check the taping and try to not completely cover the probe. Foil tape is your better choice. IR gun is best for gauging temps.

# 3- Welcome back to reptile keeping.

[AKA Dave]

Albert is right. The only thing that I would add is from personal experience. I use 6" tape in my belly heat racks for sub adults and adult BPs just because I think it performs better and has a more consistent temp.

Dave

[kdraw]

Thanks Albert and Dave. Originally, I wanted 6" tape, but was unable to find any at a decent price in small quantities.

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