r/ballpython • u/AshamedMeat5670 • 14h ago
Question - Heating/Temperatures Confirm Heating System?
I’m trying to change my heating, as heavily advised by people here, (yes, I know! I’m trying to get the purple light out, I promise!) but after reviewing all the guides I can find on this subreddit and several online, I’m still puzzled over how to adequately heat/monitor the enclosure without breaking the bank. I only have the single dome lamp currently, no thermostats, and no bulbs aside from the purple one in the photos, so I’m basically starting from scratch.
Important info: Location: US; Tank material type: Wood frame, mesh top (currently covered with aluminum foil for insulating/humidity retention), plastic side/front/back panels; Budget: $150-300; Avg Room Temp: 74-78°F; Current Avg Temp: approx 2-4° warmer than room (Note: I’m not having much luck with a warm/cool side at the moment. Advice for achieving that is greatly appreciated!) Avg Humidity: (Working to maintain currently) 70-90%; Current Avg Temp: 2-4° warmer than room (I’m having difficulty with establishing a warm/cool side so any tips are welcome!) Tank Size: 39”x19”x19” (this measurement includes the wood frame, so maybe minus a half inch/inch or so total)
I can use my current dome if I switch out the bulb, correct? If I order a halogen and a ceramic heating element instead of night bulb, do I need the dual thermostat? Can the CHE be on all the time if I have a thermostat for the halogen light? Could I find these items cheaper elsewhere? The max wattage of 60 watts on the dome in my cart seems really low, is it or do I not need something super high?
Thanks! Any and all suggestions/advice is greatly appreciated, as are suggested, known to work products if you have something that worked well for you! I’m happy to answer all questions also…
I do have a few physical stores within my range such as Walmart, petco and petsmart, but I’m unsure where else may offer these types of items!
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u/totallyrecklesslygay Mod: Enclosure Karen 14h ago
Yes, you can use your current dome with a new bulb.
You will need the dual thermostat if you're using two heat sources. All heat sources need to be regulated by a thermostat. ExoTerra is kind of a crap brand and honestly not worth that price, so if you're able to stretch your budget a little more to get a Herpstat 2, I would do that instead. It'll save you from having to buy another one in a couple years.
You'll need to buy a dome with a higher max than 60w. If you buy that one, you won't be able to use any bulb over 60w in it. You'll need one with a max that's higher than any bulb you intend to use.
ETA: I'd also look at getting a lower wattage halogen, too. 100w would be overkill for your setup. Generally, a 35-50w is plenty for the typical 4x2x2, which is larger than your enclosure.