You may need to move the water dish to the warm end, just watch your humidity and if it's too low,(needs to be 50-60%) then move it. As for the screen on the back, I think you're talking about the background picture. If so, then that's fine, it will actually help him feel more secure, by not seeing movement on three sides of the tank. I've heard of people placing the t-stat probe on the underside of the tank (that's where mine is) I would suggest using foil tape to stick it on, so temp. fluctuations in the room do not affect it. I don't have a Helix though so, maybe someone else has a comment on that. Looking good. Post pictures when you get your BP.....we love pictures!