OP, you sound prepared. Everyone is on a different budget has different space available, etc. However, my life changed when I went to top quality PVC tanks.

I generally don't worry too much about room temp. I worry about quick increases or drops in temps and humidity in the reptile area (part of my finished basement - which helps prevent these sudden changes) and keep temps under 78F during the summer and over 66F in the winter (usually closer to 70F).

I used to have PVC cages and glass cages, with the PVC cages being okay, but not top of the line. I spent a ton on heating them/electric bills, and 5 tanks took up a ton of space. I also had separate thermostats and heating elements in each tank, but it was a nightmare as room temps and humidity changed.

Then, I upgraded to my 2 (kind of 3) Boaphile stacks. I am sure it is similar with AP, and other top notch cages, but I went with Jeff Ronne and Boaphile and have zero regrets. The cages are incredibly well insulated and heating 13 tanks now costs about what 5 seperate, not well insulated, tanks all around the room cost (with lights, RHP's, heat pads, etc.). First, stacking means less heating. Hottest tanks on top and coolest on the bottom - heat rises. Secondly, great insulation means less heating. Finally, great insulation means fewer humidity issues. When it's 25% in my reptile room in the winter, my Boas and Pythons are at about 50%+ depending on how many bowls I use (up to 2) and tank size. I use paper substrate and it's still not an issue.

Modern PVC enclosures coupled with appropriate heating elements and modern thermostats means fewer headaches regardless of room temp (within reason). I check temps regularly, but only need to adjust when there are dramatic changes (seasonal changes usually). If you have several of the same species, you can also use one thermostat for several tanks if the tanks are the same.

Again, not telling you that you need to get Boaphiles, or AP, etc. I did find that getting all the tanks from the same manufacturer meant stacking which means I have 13 tanks where I used to have 5 and have more space. It also means lower electric bills, happier animals, and a great look. It also means not sweating room temp too much. Just a different approach/thought on the issue.

https://ball-pythons.net/forums/show...Complete/page5