So, in your research what web site informed you that putting the thermostat probes in the enclosure under the hides was appropriate? Please tell me so I can go correct the web site owner.
The thermostat probe for the heat mat goes under the terrarium, sandwiched between the heat mat and the underside of the terrarium floor. Set the thermostat for the heat mat so the enclosure floor surface temp reads about 90*F as measured with a temp gun or infrared point thermometer.
Ditch the overhead heat and warm the room to 76-78*F. Two 100W CHE's will turn that into a desert environment in hours; a ball python needs to be humid. Cover the top of the terrarium with foil to keep humidity inside.