I have the 18x18x12 high and ran into the same issues. I wanted to make my own top and remove those flimsy top panels, but I never did. Ended up using a piece of foam panel over the top screen sections. Helped.

The 2 heat pad idea will work - each on a different controller like you said. Probably the easiest way is to use 2 lengths of THG heat tape - the 6-inch wide stuff. That is fantastic heat tape and will cover most of your cage floor. You can run it lengthwise, one piece towards the back and one towards the front. Leave a little extra space around each strip to add even more gradient. THG heat tape is available at Reptile Basics, Inc. It has a bit less watt-density than Flexwatt, but I use it in a cool room with no issue. Alternatively, you can use Ultratherm heat pads. They are wonderful in function. However, the sizes that may or may not combine for what you want (maybe an 11x11 for the hot area and a 11x17 for the less hot area). Also, there are Intellitemp heat mats from Big Apple that come in sizes that you may be able to combine to better fit under the cage. Figure out the space you want for heat and for less heat, then go from there.

BTW, I used 2 heat strips too. But one controller. One heat strip went directly to the controller, and the other heat strip went to a lamp dimmer then to the controller. I simple ran one strip cooler via the dimmer. Worked because my controller is pulse proportional (works with ON/OFF too). Does not work with true dimming controllers.

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