Someone else posted a similar idea that led me to do the same. I got a 1 foot section of 11 inch heat tape ($2.50), 9' cheapo extention cord ($1.15), 4 terra cotta ceramic tiles ($3.00), dimmer switch ($2.25), and liquid electric tape. Cut the female plug end off of extention cord split wires strip insulation off about 1/2", use an exacto knife to gently cut away the plastic on one side of the conductor on the heat tape on both sides, solder wires from extention cord to heat tape, cut 1 wire of extention cord about half way down, connect dimmer switch, liquid electric tape on all exposed connections (multiple coats) water proof connections. use sand paper and smooth ALL rough or sharp edges of tiles, place new heat mat inside cage and set tiles on top of it. The tiles absorb and relaese the heat that hte heating pad releases (less or no hot spots) and allows air to circulate over the surface of the heat tape.