Reptile & Amphibian Forums

My husband and I have decided this weekend to get into breeding our Leo's and I have a question about setting up a rack system. I was going to building a shelving system using plastic shoebox containers. My question is regarding the heating. With this type of set up, what's the best way to provide and maintain heat for all individual geckos?? I have heard of using heat tape, but I am completely unaware of where to get it and how to use it. I currently am starting with 2 pairs and I have each pair in a natural vivarium (20L each) but want to eventually separate all of them individually and aquire more Leo's.

Any advise would be appreciated. Please email me at work:

tsavage@cnlonline.com

Thanks-

Tami
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Tami

1 crestie - Spiderman
4 Leos - Buddy, Mystery, Bitsy & Guyko
3 Cats - Tabytha, Harley & Angel
1 Husband - Jason
3 Kids - Melissa, Matthew & Curtis

You can install the heat tape two ways. Either under each shelf as I did here - forums.kingsnake.com/view.php?id=8724,8724

Or you can run it down the back of the shelves. I've got some of both, and the only drawback I found is that depending on the height of the rack, materials, and room temps, the bottom shelf could be a bit cooler than the top shelves. On cold days my rack like this was reaching 10F difference until I installed the second piece of 11" wide tape. I suggest if you run it down the back like this, to cover the back with tape. In my case, the 24" wide rack has two 11" pieces vertical. Also, ask Monte (pretty sure it was Monte) what type of insulated board he uses, because that will keep the temps more stable.

If you need any help with the wiring, let us know. I can post pics of how I did it, as long as you don't sue me if you mess up and burn down the house.

Herpcam

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Rob Jenkins
http://herpcam.com