Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I have two heat sources for the tank Im setting up for my Leo.
I have a red spotbulb and a heatpad.

I was just wondering what the general opinion was on how to set them up. I know the bulb shines on a spot at one end of the tank and the pad goes at the same end. But I have been given differing atvice on where to put the pad. Some people have told me to stick the pad to the outside back wall of the tankand others have told me to stick it under the tank. What Is the best way?

Also How important is a theromstat? Can I use the same one for the pad and the light?

Thanks for your help!
Steev

Hi steve,
I would suggest using the heat mat under the tank as heat rises and they don't get that warm and the leo even at full size could in no way be cocidered heavy bodied and at risk from low level burns as for the use of a thermostate i would say on the light as i have already said the heat mats don't get that warm so if you use it on your light you can have the required temp daytime (thermostate will save you money in the long run as it maintains a constant temp by cutting the power on and off to in your case the light)and have the heat pad for a constent nightime temp. Just make sure you have a good thermal gradiant in your tank 85-90 warm side 70-75 cool side.

cheers
John (glasgow)

Steve-

The UTH goes under the tank. You can either put it on the left or on the right. It doesn't matter, which ever you prefer.

The UTH is very important. Leos need belly heat to warm their bellies and the heat also aides in digestion. If your room is too cold at night you can use a heating bulb if you wish. The red or purple ones that dont give off hardly any light will work best. Keep the UTH on at all times 24/7. You can use the lamp for extra heat at night.
In the winter I have to raise the temp in my reptile room just a tad, cuz its colder which somehow makes the room just a tad cooler.

If you are setting up a tank keep your humid hide on the warm end, and have a dry hide on the warm end as well. Also have a hide on the cool end. Leos need to regulate their body temp going from warm to cold. Also do not put your water dish on the warm end.

If you'd liek to use a digi therm to keep track of the temp. inside the enclosure you may. Also it is best to put your UTH on a dimmer or some kind of reptile heat controller cuz UTH's can get really hot...trust me.

Shayna
Leo Lovers Lizard Lounge

A thermostat or rheostat is very important, If you buy one froma pet store chances are you will only be able to plug in one thing so I would suggest the UTH as they do get to hot, in fact if you read one brands packaging the other day (though I don't remember which one I think zoo med as the packaging was encouraging you to buy a rheostat and I only know of two of those sold in pet stores) it said "heats substrate to 110 degrees, perfect for most desert species. For cooler temps use in combination with a (unknown brand name) rheostat" Also if the light is just for viewing purposes it can be as low wattage as you want so that it doesn't give off much heat. Finally if you buy a rheostat from a herpetological company such as Maryland herp farm or the bean farm you can get one that can have several items attched although it will be more expensive, you could also make your own. If you don't feel comfortable with your wiring it is not that hard to find someone who will make one for you for around 20 bucks or so.

Steve,
The products sold here in the UK are of a different spec & over here heat pads don't get that warm but it's your call

Cheers,
John

They are rated to keep the temperetur at a constant 100 degrees Fahrenheit.