Both heating pads are small zoo-med pads on the sides of the tank right above the substrate, each brings the temp up about 3 degrees (Fahrenheit) and the lamp boosts it by about six or seven. I'm thinking of getting two medium heat pads for both sides to get them up higher (I'm guessing the medium pads would bring it up 4-5 degrees each?). The heat pads are definitely not hot enough to cause burns. I have a thermostat for the whole room and aren't able to install one just for the tank. Usually the room is 70F but I have no problem keeping it 75F if it'll help the tank temperatures. I'll try to post a picture when I'm able :]