Yes- hidey holes are cooler than the outside part in Nature~ I suppose.

I have 6 cages heated by RHP's; mine are made by Rich at RBI and are the 80watt variety. On top of the warm hide it is the temp that I have my t'stat set to and under the hide (also made by Rich at RBI ) it is two degrees warmer.

What type of hide do you have? RHP's warm the air as well and so the heat accumulates under the hide- mine at least!