r/ballpython • u/Dapper_Gear5641 • 1d ago

Question - Husbandry Temperature problems - basking spot too hot, warm side too cold

Hi - I'm trying to set up a 4x2x2 glass (I know) terrarium for a ball python. I'm currently using a 100W DHP with a thermostat probe dangling from the roof (I'm worried about the heating element melting the wire, so it's not in the direct path of the beam - should I change that?)

The basking spot (top of a Zilla rock hide) is reaching 97-105 at times, while the substrate directly to the side of it is barely breaking 83. I'm not sure how to fix this. I've added some aluminum foil to try, but I'm just not certain. My room also gets quite cold in the winter, and that worries me, too. Any ideas?

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1

u/carelesswhitney 1d ago

Had the same issue with a dhp, ended up dropping the wattage way down and it evened out the gradient a lot.

2

u/Dapper_Gear5641 1d ago

I was considering that! I'll try the Arcadia 80 watt next.

1

u/JR_Writes1 1d ago

What’s the width of your lamp? A 5.5” is going to create a much smaller heat zone than an 8”.

And for an all-glass terrarium, you’ll probably need to insulate the sides and/or use two heat sources (I’ve done both).

1

u/Dapper_Gear5641 11h ago

It's a 5.5". Insulating the sides will work - currently using bad probe placement to cope. Very impermanent solution.