I was somewhat skeptical about heat cable in a rack system as well. You should really contact them about that, as that particular product is pretty new to their company and I'm sure that they would appreciate the feedback. And having personal experience with their customer service multiple times, I'm sure that they would work with you to make it right.

mlededee - I've been using two AP T3 cages for about an year or so now, and both balls in those caging are doing great. Did you get the inserts for the holes on top of the cage? Placing them over the holes on top is how you keep the warm air inside the cage, with the slots in the back providing all the ventilation the cage needs.