I keep the entire house at 74 and don't have any problems with reaching appropriate temps in racks. When you set the thermostat, where are you measuring temps and placing the probe? Here is what I do:
-set thermostat to 90 with probe on the heat tape itself
-let it sit several hours
-use temp gun to check the temp inside the tub, under the substrate
-if not high enough, bump the thermostat up a couple degrees
-wait several hours
-check again
-repeat all but first two steps until temps are appropriate
Some racks thermostat at 92 is enough to get 90 inside, other racks need 96-98. It really depends on the tub type, insulation of heat tape, and so on. You can always add backs and sides to your rack to help insulate the tubs better and use less electricity. All my racks are fully open designs, but for example, the racks in between other racks hold heat better. I also have the ac/heater vent in the reptile room closed partially so there is a bit less circulation through the house of the reptile room air, which keeps that room a bit warmer than the rest of the house.
Hope that helps some!
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