Thanks for the pointers...first time RHP user here so I must've missed the bit about using dimming heat. I just fixed that for the RHP side, and will keep an eye on it.
I DID use aluminum tape on the UTH probe! Did not know that caused the probe tip to read incorrectly. Reading the instructions, RBI says "if using aluminum tape, do not overlap any of the electrical areas in the element - black conductive bars or copper buss bars". I put the tape around all 4 sides of the heat element...does that mean I should've only attached the aluminum tape to the heat tape itself and not to the solid conductors running through it? (I've unplugged the UTH til I figure this part out and have re-taped the probe)
About 3" from the floor...7 or 8" from the RHP.