Quote Originally Posted by JamesMX39
Thanks guys. I kind of have a basic idea in my mind as to what I'm going to do.

However, I still have a few questions.

First, what are the advantages of lids vs. lidless? I am fine using either method. I am leaning towards lidless, unless there are any reasons why I shouldn't. The extra efford in building it isn't a problem for me. However, I am wondering if there is any certain way I should go about building it to be secure.

Secondly, can someone explain that flexwatt stuff to me? How does it work? Do I need anything special for it? Do I have to worry about melting the plastic?

Third, how should I go about regulating the temperature? I am assuming that a thermostat is a must, and will probably also be my most expensive purchase. What direction should I go in terms of a thermostat.

Thanks Guys.
It sounds like a 5 slot adult rack might be good for you, but youd have to put in plenty of hides for the smaller snake.

Lidded
Pro: very secure, you don't have to build your rack to exact precision, and you control humidity/airflow with holes in the tub/lid

Con: You can't just slide the tub partway out and check the tub for sheds/feces/etc, you either have to take the lid off, or in some cases slide the tub out and then take the lid off

Lidless
Pro: Easy to access the tub and the snake.

Con: Your rack has to be precise and not leave much of a gap or else escape is possible

If you can build a precise rack (stacking tubs and then shelves with a spacer is an easy way to insure this), then I would go with lidless


Flexwatt.... It has two conductive strips, one running lengthwise down each side. You cut it to length, melt the plastic off of the conductive edge, and solder, or you can just buy a clip that punctures the plastic and attaches the power cord. Power cord can be a 6' extension cord with the plug cut off (usually less than $1). You plug these into power controlled by your thermostat and usually put the probe on the center shelf of your rack for the averages. With a thermostat you wont get anywhere hot enough to melt any plastic, Im not even sure flexwatt gets hot enough to melt plastic even at max temps (after all, it IS encased in plastic


Thermostat is a must. I use grounded helix t-stats. They are proportional, and give your snakes the most regulated temps. Consider the cost divided by the number of snakes. For $135 , for 5 snakes, thats only 27$ per snake, the cost of a cheap thermostat

Another option is purchasing a raw ranco or johnsons, ~$50 and wiring it yourself. That is much more affordable but instead of 92 degrees constant on the snakes hot side, you will get swings ~ 91-93 depending. Its not the end of the world, but the helix, or any other proportional t-stat is a more constant method by providing variant power so that it stays at a constant 92 for you