undertank heating ??

[Cristina]

I have an undertank heating pad...when I first put it one I noticed that when I moved the mulch away the bottom glass was burning hot..mulch was warm...is that normal??...he like top sit all the way at the bottom so I got the basking lamp...I would rather use the pad b/c its cheaper...also can I leave it on 24 hrs?...I notice some ppl do...oh and how thick should the mulch be?...I have it pretty thick
I just dont want him to burn himself

Thanks

[Heidi]

Put it on a thermostat and it will keep it from burning the snake. They do get very hot without a thermostat controlling the temps.

[Cristina]

how do u control the temp w/ just the plug in pad??/...i have a digital probe thermostat in right now

[Ranger]

I think you have a digital probe thermometer. You need a thermostat or rheostat (a dimmer) to control the heat from the under tank heater. Otherwise, they run quite hot and can burn your snake.

[Cristina]

ok..but how do u hook that up to the pad?..or do they sell pad w/ the temp regulator already attached?...
jeez im such a newbie!!!..all the guy said at the store was to plug in in and leave it 24 hrs..and thats it..but it feels way to hot

[Cristina]

i got it..i understand now

[project_evolution]

Originally Posted by cris78

ok..but how do u hook that up to the pad?..or do they sell pad w/ the temp regulator already attached?...
jeez im such a newbie!!!..all the guy said at the store was to plug in in and leave it 24 hrs..and thats it..but it feels way to hot

You get a device that has a temp. probe that goes in the tank, and has places to plug you heat sources into.That then plugs into the wall and you set your temps.You should also pay close attention to the actual temps in the tank,to make sure the tanks reaching the right temps.Most pet supply stores carry them, just make sure you get one thats rated to handle the ammount of power your heaters draw.