The thing about RHPs is that they are best used without a screen between the lense and the object to be heated. Screen of the type on those enclosures will reflect some of the radiation back up, and this is not the best situation for the heater.



IMO for this application, a regular old 8.5 inch or 10 inch light dome might be best. A 50 watt infrared spot lamp or a 60 watt ceramic heat emitter will do wonders in heating the cage. Yes, a temperature controller is a must when using a heater like this. A 20 gal is too small not to use a controller, since the animal cannot get that far away from the heater if you encounter a warm day.



Make sure to check humidity when using overhead heat. Mistings will be necessary often. A great way is to use a plastic hide box and mist under it and on its ceiling.



BTW, the screen will also reflect some of the heat from the bulbs. But, bulbs are less expensive than an RHP, so if the life is possibly shortened a bit, who cares.

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