Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I recently wrote to get sizing info on a Pro Heat radiant heat panel, and here's what I was quoted to need:

Pro Heat model PH-12, 88 watt, 12" x 24" 120 volt radiant panel

I plan on getting one of these to heat my burm in his Vision cage (the big 6ft by 3ft model).

Now I'm wondering about how to install it. I figure I have about four options on where to put it. Unfortunately, the option I would like best isn't available becasue of the light shroud being in the way.

Here are the options I'm considering (looking down from the top of the cage, I placed the heat panel in different orientations relative to the light shroud):

Which do you think would be the best place to install it? Or do you have an idea for a better way to install it?

Any ideas please share, thanks,
- Mark
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I am curious why you don't just put lights in the spaces the cage has for them. I have three of those visions stacked up and I have always used lights, I never had a problem with heat or humidity.

I do use a light in the space designed for it (the light shroud). But I don't want to use a light for heating purposes as they tend to be expensive to run, get very very hot, and don't do any good at night. Also, I've heard very good things about the radiant heat panels.

I also don't have any problems with humidity (I apologize if I gave that impression in the first place).

- Mark

>>I am curious why you don't just put lights in the spaces the cage has for them. I have three of those visions stacked up and I have always used lights, I never had a problem with heat or humidity.

Hi Mark –

Those drawings are helpful.

I vote for #1, and use that layout myself. I chose it because it provides the best way to offer a meaningful temperature gradient across the length of the cage. In the photo below, you can see most of the heat panel in the ceiling, and the probe for the thermostat coming in on the left-hand side

Also, that orientation allows you to snug up the panel flush against the ceiling, keeping prying snake snouts out. Any cross-wise installation (along the long axis of that Vision cage – as in your #3 & #4) puts it across the ridges in the ceiling, leaving a gap behind the panel.

-Joan

I too vote for option #1 except maybe a tad bit more toward center. I would also go 20 watts larger than recommended. I recently installed a 12X15 Pro RHP as recommended by Bob and it stays on allot. I would rather have more power in reserve so it will heat faster/more efficient and have more down time. Puting it in position #1 is best for the gradient as mentioned in another response. Also, Bob told me the RHP provides the proper UV properties and supplimental light for this purpose is not needed. Just a light for, well, light.
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DZ

"People sleep peaceably in their beds at night only because rough men stand ready to do violence on their behalf." -- George Orwell

1.0.0 Burm, Moses
0.0.2 Ball, Chico & Chewy (rescue, many scars)
0.2.0 Cats, Merideth & Hannah
1.0.0 Black Chow, Pivo RIP Oct 23
1.0.0 Blue Chow Puppy, pick up 18 Dec
1.4.0 Rats
0.2.0 Humans (a little obnoxious though)

I would go with #1 if it were me.
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1.1 Albino Burmese
0.1 Normal Burmese
1.0 Veild Chameleon
Waiting for more reptiles of any kind