Ive recently just bought a leopard gecko and I bought a uth for my 20 gallon long tank. For some reason the side where the uth is it's really warm , i checked the temp on the surface and it's 96 or a lil above. Im using sand as a substrate , should i add more subtrate or not use a uth ? The uth brand is exo terra , i used a zoo-med before and it got over 100 degrees. What should i do ?
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UTH problems
BGRIF
Oct 30, 2008 10:12 PM
Replies (3)
Patrick562
Oct 30, 2008 10:17 PM
You can try adding another layer of substrate. Or, you can invest in a thermostat or dimmer of some sort to regulate surface temps.
-Patrick
abeercan01
Oct 31, 2008 10:53 AM
Yea, you definately need some sort of thermostst/rheostat anytime your using a UTH.
You can purchase one from zoo-med pretty cheap
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MimC85
Oct 31, 2008 11:32 AM
You need a thermostat or rheostat for that heat pad!
A thermostat is a device where you can set the temps and it will maintain a relatively constant temp for you (within a range).
A rheostat or dimmer is a device that will control the heat output on the UTH but needs to be adjusted. It has a dial on it and you need to be checking the temps every day or so and if its too hot or too cold then tweak them a bit.
Thermostats are less work ultimately - but more money.
Dimmers take more attention paid to them, but are cheaper. YOu can buy them at home depot for 10$ (in the lamp dimmer section - get the plug in variety)
Also, if this is a baby leo (you mentioned you just bought it) then it should not be housed on sand. Washed, fine grain playsand can be an adequate substrate for adults but it should not be used on babies who are more prone to impaction. Paper towels, non-adhesive shelf liner, reptile "carpet" or tile are all suitable substrates for babies.
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