You are correct (as the others have stated) in that the heat mat should not be inside the enclosure. Also good for you to know it HAS to be controlled by a thermostat.
IMHO Bob at Pro-Products offers the best and safest RHP's on the market. He will talk with you and explain why as he is a wealth of knowledge and a snake keeper himself.
I started using cypress mulch for bedding on the advice from the local reptile guy but switched to coco husk from Reptile Prime/Herptopia after doing my own research. I feel it is a better choice for many reasons; keeps humidity very well, VERY absorbent, easy spot cleaning, absolutely no odors, and most importantly....my snakes can burrow in it - they never did with the cypress mulch. Youtube has a ton of good vids on it and comparisons.
Good luck to you, it sounds like you're on the right track by doing some homework and research.
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