Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Ok guys

For now got an 03 ball in a 90qt sterilite plastic tub, with a hand made mesh top and uv bulb for heating. I live in rochester and i know it will get brutal in the winter and i'd like to use heat tape, which i know many do and recommend.

I was wondering if heat tape could be used directly on the plastic? I'm thinking not, was wondering what are some ideas you guys might have to solve this problem?

I was thinking of getting 2 panes of glass, and sandwich the heat tape between, and place that below the substrate. Will this be good?

Also where should i place the heat tape, under his den?

Thanks in advance guys!

If you haven't already bought heat tape, I would recommend a Dragon's Lair Heat Mat. I use a 6 x 11 for my 03 python. Its enclosure is a large rubbermaid box. I use foil take to attach the edges of the heat mat to the (outside) bottom of the box. I also use a thermostat to keep the temperature in range since the heat mat will get a little too hot on its own. I use a human heating pad set on low for the cool side. I've had this set-up for about 1 1/2 years without any problem. The nice thing is, you don't have to do any wiring, it's ready to go, and is very economical. Check out Big Apple Herpetological. They are a very good company.

Heat tape is a good idea, but putting it directly in the Sterlite is a BAD one. Underneath is best, and if you use a rheostat or proportional thermostat, the temps that you'll need will do zero damage to the Strelite. I would also reconsider a mesh top, 'cause the enclosures humidity will be garbage. Use the lid that came with it, and put holes in the container.

ok So just want to make sure, your speaking from Experience when you say that the heat tape at about 80degrees won't do damage?

Just want to be sure.

Thank you

I would recomend keeping the hot side a bit over 80.

I keep mine at 92ish and all is well.

To answer you question, NO 90-95 will not hurt the plastic bin. Did you ever see one melt on a hot summer day?
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Firstly, if you think that 80 is a good temp to keep balls at, you've got some more reading to do. 92-95. And yes, I have over 60 rubbermaids that hav eheat tape under them, and they are all fine, as are the balls inside of them.

ok, i guess i will take your word for it! lol.

So should i put it along the whole bottom or just 1/3, underneath his hiding spot?

1/4 to 1/3 of the area of his enclosure, under his hide.