Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I'm trying to get an aquarium set up for my leo that I plan on taking home on Saturday. My problem is that I can't seem to get the temperature up high enough.

Right now, I have a solid glass cage with plastic vents on the side with both an UTH covering about half the aquarium in the basking spot and a red 40 W bulb over the glass. With both of these on, my digital thermometer on the side (about 2 in from the bottom and 1/2 over from the UTH) reads 76.8 degrees. I have also a dial thermometer temporarily about 1/2 in up from the pad. It reads ~82 degrees.

What can I do to improve the temp. conditions? I don't yet have the indoor/outdoor carpeting I'll be using as substrate, will that make a difference? Would a different UTH make the difference? Since I live 45 min away from the pet store, I'll have to make any adjustments the day I bring my leo home...HELP!

Anytime you put some type of substrate, the temps usually do go up. You're gonna need substrate anytime you have an UTH anyway. How big is your tank? If it's too big, the heat will just escape. You can try to cover half of the top of the tank with a towel or a piece of wood like I do.

or try a 60 or 75 watt infrared light.

Thanks guys! I guess I'll make 2 runs to the pet store and get everything completely ready before I go up again to get my leo. It'll be better, but oh the gas prises!