You don't use a "thermometer". You use a "thermostat". A thermostat has a probe on it. It will automatically shut off the heat when it gets to the right temps. Then you use your temp gun periodically to double check the temps. You use the temp gun to check your boas temp, hot spot temp, cool side floor temp, and warm side floor temp. A thermostat will basically control the ambient temps. If the ambient temps are good normally the rest of the temps are also good. Normally you set the prob for the thermostat about 1 inch above the hot spot. Make sure it's right over the hot spot to make sure the hot spot doesn't get to hot.

I have a hold drilled into the back of my cages, that's 1 inch above the hot spot. I just put the temp prob in that hole and secure it in place.

I'm not sure which thermostat is best. I use the Boaphile thermostat and it works fine for my boas.

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