Keep in mind there are different types & brands of "heat tape".
Specifically, I've been using Flexwatt for well over 25 years on I don't know how many cages...Properly installed (with a little breathing room so it doesn't
over-heat) and undamaged by moving etc. it lasts for decades at my house. I think I've only had 2 or 3 pieces go bad, but they were likely affected by the
move across country. (make sure they don't get bent, etc.) Mine are installed under tanks that sit either on solid furniture (w/ air vents created by gaps in
weatherstripping on bottom edges of tanks) or on wood cabinets & stands made for aquariums (with opening under tank that I partly insulate).
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