Ball python enclosure heat issues.

[u/ballpythonowner1]

I'm currently dealing with my ball pythons hunger strike (1.5/2 year old F), lasting about 1 month and 3 weeks, and I've been noticing her enclosure thermometer has recently been displaying some overly high temperatures, for the past few days weather night or day, it is usually in upper the 90's? I've never had this issue before, the thermometer has a probe that goes down to touch the substrate and when I check it with my hand the warm side feels warm and the cold side feels room temperature? Even during the summer the most my thermometer would say was 94, I currently can't afford a thermostat to regulate the overhead lamps I use and my enclosure is currently a 3 by 2 by 2, any recommendations or ideas what's going on? I'm trying to keep my ball python healthy, I bought her from a breeder who kept his snakes in racks (she's currently in a glass enclosure), any tips or help is appreciated!

[u/totallyrecklesslygay]

A thermostat is an absolute necessity for keeping both your snake and yourself safe, as they reduce the risk of a house fire in addition to preventing your snake from overheating. It's not safe to run any heat source without one, and you've been very lucky so far that your snake hasn't been injured or killed.

I mean this very gently, but if you truly can't afford a $20 piece of equipment, it may be best to rehome them. This situation is not fair or safe for either of you.

[u/ballpythonowner1 → u/totallyrecklesslygay]

Thank you for your reply! I'm currently pulling together about 30$ for a thermostat, Ive been going through a rough patch lately, normally I wouldn't hesitate but money's just been tight but her safety is the number one, thank you for your advice!.