No your thermometer is not an issue I use the same to measure the temps on the warm side and the cool side I just leave most of the wire outside.Originally Posted by Austin Smith
Definitely ditch the human heating pad they are not made to run 24/7 nor to maintain proper constant temps, you want to get a device designed for reptiles. Reptile heating pad or flexwatt heat tape in both cases the heat source must be controlled by a thermostat.
And use paper clips to secure your enclosure or ties between your tub and the lid will work also.