Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I am wondering (sitting here staring at my tanks) can i use heat tape instead of UTH to heat more than one tank? I have 3 tanks on top of my computer desk (one 20gal long and two 10gal, turned sideways). UTH's personally leave me a bit uncomfortable especially with all i've read about them shorting out and i've never had trouble attaining the appropriate temps with overhead lighting. (even the ground temps are good according to the digital thermometer). Does heat tape provide the same level of risk of burnout as the UTH?

Thanks again for any input......I'm off to work.

Red

My personal opinion is that UTHs are very safe as long as you provide an air space under the tank and have them plugged into a rheostat or thermostat. I am using 4 UTHs (2 attached to each rheostat) and have not had a single problem with any of them. I would actually be more worried about the heat tap since you will most likely have to wire it yourself. I am confident that the producers of UTHs know what they are doing

Cleo
1:1 leos (4 eggs cooking)

I was actually responding to your other post Thankyou for your input. Your right......having to wire anything is just not my calling hehehe. My ex however, well he could wire up anything and everything....electicial nut.

I'll get the UTH's for sure May i ask, what sizes do you use for what size tank? and what settings are best to heat those tanks? I have one large lamp on a timer that provides 12 hours of daylight to almost all of my tanks so the UTH would eliminate all of the extra heat/light lamps. I could use one *nite light* for viewing purposes for most of the tanks as well. Does this sound OK? Or do i still need overhead heating?

I hope i'm not being annoying Thanks again
Red

For my 10 gallon tanks I use the UTHs made for 10 gallon tanks (it will say this on the package). For my 20 gallon long tank, I have 2 10 gallon tank UTHs side by side (since the store was out of the size up and the other UTHs were too big). I have my rheostats set halfway (maybe a bit more) between low and medium but you may have to adjust it a bit according to the temp the room normally stays at. You won't need lamps but if you have them already, using low wattage night-glo (red or blue) bulbs will help for nighttime viewing. Hope this helps!!! (*don't worry, not annoying at all!*)

Cleo
1:1 leos (4 eggs cooking)

Thanks again

Now i can't wait until i get everything setup and ready.

Red