Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I recently moved and the apartment I live in now is a bit cooler than I'd like.

I have a 20gal long Critter Keeper with screen top on a stand with a wooden canopy above. I have a UltraTherm under the tank heater which keeps the ambient temps inside to about 80-84 (depending on the ambient temp of my apt) for my Hog Island boa constrictor I'd like to increase the temps a bit. I believe it's just a bit too chilly in there at times for her based on her behavior, though she seems to digest food just fine.

I'm thinking of getting a radiant heat panel and mounting it above the tank over where the UTH is located. The distance between the screen top and the wooden canopy where I could mount the radiant heat panel is 7".

1. Would I be able to increase the temps with a radiant heat panel mounted onto the canopy?

2. What size radiant panel should I get to increase the temps to 84-86F?

3 Three hat vendor would people recommend (I've know of two) ?

4 Would I need a thermostat, like a Helix or something similar??

I'd appreciate any thoughts- w/the the exception of getting a new set up. I don't have the space for a new set up.
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Pie-Bald Ball python
Hogg Island Boa Constrictor
Woma Python
Several species of tarantula

The thing about RHPs is that they are best used without a screen between the lense and the object to be heated. Screen of the type on those enclosures will reflect some of the radiation back up, and this is not the best situation for the heater.

IMO for this application, a regular old 8.5 inch or 10 inch light dome might be best. A 50 watt infrared spot lamp or a 60 watt ceramic heat emitter will do wonders in heating the cage. Yes, a temperature controller is a must when using a heater like this. A 20 gal is too small not to use a controller, since the animal cannot get that far away from the heater if you encounter a warm day.

Make sure to check humidity when using overhead heat. Mistings will be necessary often. A great way is to use a plastic hide box and mist under it and on its ceiling.

BTW, the screen will also reflect some of the heat from the bulbs. But, bulbs are less expensive than an RHP, so if the life is possibly shortened a bit, who cares.

Thanks! I'd really like to find a light canopy/lid (I'm tired of those clamp lamps, they look ugly), that will fit into my existing screen top. Here's the one I have> http://www.walmart.com/ip/Pet-Select-10-Gallon-Deluxe-Screen-Cover-Fish-Aquatic-Pets/3635622

It has a perfect slot down the center w/screen, just not sure if I can find a lamp that will drop in there for some added heat.
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Pie-Bald Ball python
Hogg Island Boa Constrictor
Woma Python
Several species of tarantula

I misread your post before. You have a canopy, so the RHP would sit 7" above the screen top. That might be fine after all. You can ask the Bean Farm if that is OK for the heater, but I think you are good.

The smallest RHP from most sources is about 11 inches wide, so make sure that will fit inside the canopy. I think Pro-Products makes a smaller size.