FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you make Hatchling Racks with Belly Heat?
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We currently only use the Iris 6qt tubs for our hatchling racks. This tub is ideal for many Pythons and Boas, the nearly vertical sides gives you more floor space than any other 6 qt tub available. BUT, it also has feet on the bottom, this is a challenge when using belly heat. The feet do not flow over the inlaid belly heat very easily, its like a pothole in the road and every time those feet go through the grove they rub against the heat tape and will eventually damage the heat tape and cause issues later on. So we decided to make a better, safer hatchling rack by using the properly sized heat tape along the back that will provide more than enough heat for your babies even in cooler rooms. And because the tubs are small if there were to be an issue with the belly heat, there is not much space for them to escape to. You will be satisfied with our back heated Hatchling Racks.
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How do I measure surface temperatures inside my enclosure?
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We recommend an Infra-Red Thermometer (TEMP GUN) placed 6 inches away and perpendicular to the surface being checked. The further away you get the less accurate your reading will be. (There is a big ole soap box I can get on when it comes to using these properly, but we will leave that for another time.) Please read the instructions that came with your sensor. We also sell these on our website!
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What kind of thermostat do I need for a Radiant Heat Panel?
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A Proportional Thermostat like the Herpstats 1, 2, 4 or 6. These are available on our website for purchase. See below for setup instructions.
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How do I set up my Thermostat for use with heat tape?
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A thermostat is a must when using heat tape. It will be much safer and last longer if
used with a thermostat. Heat tape must not overlap, and excess heat tape must not be rolled up. When using to provide belly heat, the probe must be placed between the heat tape and your enclosure. I know what you're thinking. "But how will I know the temperature in my enclosure?" Follow these steps, and you'll get there.
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Start with the thermostat 5 degrees warmer than the desired temperature.
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Wait for a couple hours and check the temperature in your enclosure. Use an Infra-Red Thermometer (TEMP GUN) to read the surface directly above the heat source.
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If your temperature is two degrees cooler than you would like, raise the temperature 2 degrees.
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Wait a half an hour and check it again.
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Lather. rinse and repeat until you get it right.
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Remind yourself that this is a basking area, and the temperature doesn't have to be perfect.
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Give yourself a pat on the back. You did it!
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How do I set up my Thermostat for use with an RHP (Radiant Heat Panel)?
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A Proportional Thermostat is a must when using an RHP. The probe must be dangled about 4 inches below the heat panel and secured with a zip tie or equivalent. Always follow RHP Manufactures Instructions.
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Start with the thermostat 5 degrees warmer than the desired temperature.
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Wait for a couple hours and check the surface temperature in your enclosure underneath the heat panel. Use an Infra-Red Thermometer (TEMP GUN) to read the surface directly below the heat source.
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If your temperature is two degrees cooler than you would like, raise the temperature 2 degrees.
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Wait a half an hour and check it again.
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Lather. rinse and repeat until you get it right.
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Remind yourself that this is a basking area, and the temperature doesn't have to be perfect.
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Give yourself a pat on the back. You did it!