Temperature Range Questions

[Stormborn]

I don't currently have anything put in a 10g aquarium setup yet, so I have been utilizing the time to try and get the perfect temperature gradient within the tank. At the moment I have a Zilla Black Night Heat bulb in 100w, set in a fixture that can take up 150w. The light is fixed to an Inkbird thermostat to help maintain a given temperature gradient, and there is also an UTH which is simply plugged into a socket. I also have 2 thermometer probes for either end of the terrarium, as well as the probe for the thermostat.

Currently I have the thermostat set to turn off at 89 degrees F, and it does that just fine (If I set it to 90F, the ambient temperature rises more than it already does). However, the cooler side of the terrarium ranges between 83 and 84 degrees F. I've mostly seen that ambient temperature max should be 80F.

Is the cool side range of 83-84F still safe for a ball python? I live in Southern California so the temperature is generally warm all year round.

[Stewart_Reptiles]

When I offer a temperature gradient I like to offer one that is at least 10 degrees min. If the ambient temp is in the mid 80's than I do not provide a hot spot.

[Eric Alan]

To be perfectly honest, I'm more drawn to this statement when it comes to you inquiring about temperatures: "...and there is also an UTH which is simply plugged into a socket." An unregulated UTH will be much more of a threat to your eventual new addition than being worried over a couple degrees of ambient temperature. I would move your Inkbird thermostat probe to be in direct contact with your UTH (sandwiched between the mat and the glass if possible; if not possible, then taped directly to the underside of the mat) to control the heat mat and use a rheostat/dimmer switch to control the light bulb. You'll end up with safer temperatures and extend the life of both your heat bulb and your animal.

Here's a good place to get some ideas on how to properly set up a glass aquarium: https://ball-pythons.net/forums/show...With-Pictures!

And, of course, a good visual on how to properly use a thermostat to control a UTH:

[Stormborn]

To be perfectly honest, I'm more drawn to this statement when it comes to you inquiring about temperatures: "...and there is also an UTH which is simply plugged into a socket." An unregulated UTH will be much more of a threat to your eventual new addition than being worried over a couple degrees of ambient temperature. I would move your Inkbird thermostat probe to be in direct contact with your UTH (sandwiched between the mat and the glass if possible; if not possible, then taped directly to the underside of the mat) to control the heat mat and use a rheostat/dimmer switch to control the light bulb. You'll end up with safer temperatures and extend the life of both your heat bulb and your animal.

Here's a good place to get some ideas on how to properly set up a glass aquarium: https://ball-pythons.net/forums/show...With-Pictures!

And, of course, a good visual on how to properly use a thermostat to control a UTH:

This is very detailed, thank you! I’ve honestly been considering getting a splitter the thermostat plug so it can occupy both the heat lamp and the UTH. Would that also be a good step?

[Eric Alan]

This is very detailed, thank you!

You're welcome!

I’ve honestly been considering getting a splitter the thermostat plug so it can occupy both the heat lamp and the UTH. Would that also be a good step?

Not a good step at all. Control of a UTH needs to be completely separate from how ambient heat is regulated.

[Stormborn]

Not a good step at all. Control of a UTH needs to be completely separate from how ambient heat is regulated.

Okay, so just switch the heat lamp out for the UTH then?

[Eric Alan]

Okay, so just switch the heat lamp out for the UTH then?

Yes. When you do, make sure you move the thermostat probe accordingly (to the outside of the enclosure as I described earlier and as shown in the picture above).

[Stormborn]

I did everything recommended, I am getting MUCH more satisfactory and steady temperature ranges! Thank you!

[CALM Pythons]

Everything you need is in the Stickys under Husbandry. You can substitute Tstat brands ect.. But this is geat to refer to.
https://ball-pythons.net/forums/show...-With-Pictures!

[Eric Alan]

I did everything recommended, I am getting MUCH more satisfactory and steady temperature ranges! Thank you!