Ok, let me try it this way. I am very much against heat lamps for ball pythons. It can be done but it is more trouble than its worth in my opinion. Also, I believe that heat tape and undertank heaters are safer than a heat lamp when done correctly. If you must use a heat lamp then we probably need a better idea of what your actual setup is. 82-86 is too low for a hot - cold side setup. Also u have not specified how you are taking the temp and where. Floor, Ambient???

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