It's simple really,



Back Heat;



Pros= Easy to install, requires fewer connection, cheaper because less tape by foot can cover more rack shelves.

Cons= Doesn't provide belly heat which I have been told by big name breeders is important to ovulating females.



Belly Heat;



Pros= Consistent hot spot and basking area. Hot spot is less affected by ambient temperatures.

Cons= More connections (unless you weave the tape down the rack). Way more tape required to cover each shelf. Tubs can rub against tape.



So it really depends on the animal you are keeping. In regards to ball pythons for example, what I have been told is that back heat is ok for small racks/tubs for hatchling and juvies. But bottom/belly heat is recommended for adults with longer tubs for heat gradient.



I just built a rack that houses 10- 33" long Sterelite tubs. I was going to use 11" flex-watt down the back. The rack required 6" of tape to heat all 10 shelves. But before I wired it, I got lots of advise to use belly heat. So, I ended up using 10 feet of 11" tape cutting them into individual panels and wiring them all the way down using a proportional thermostat. I am happy I went that route because compared to my other rack, that uses back heat, I am getting more accurate temp gradients.



By the way, I am putting together pics of that rack to show anyone interested.



Hope that helps

Troy Dozier

Reptilian Projects

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