Housing Questions

[SpaceCadet]

I have a couple questions regarding plastic housing for my leos. I've read some other threads, but I want to make sure this is ok before doing it.

I have a Sterilite drawer set like this: http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/736x/38/f6/b0/38f6b0fe0b69b85219d73047f64d1ad6.jpg

I was thinking of converting it into housing for my leos. Is it safe to use a zoo-med mini UTH on the bottom of these or should I use heat tape? I heard the mini UTH by zoomed is really good for this kind of thing. Is this drawer set okay to use at all?


I also have this critter tote laying around http://imagecdn-0.findnsave.com/336/5344224-420


Is it safe to use any kind of heating on this sort of cage? It's more for travel or housing new leos temporarily, but if I can use it as a permanent set up for younger/baby leos that would be nice.


Thanks!

 

[lisa127]

I have used the Ultratherm undertank heat pads on plastic bins. I do not like the zoo meds. The ultratherms are more of a reliable, gentle heat. I get mine from Reptile Basics if you want to check it out.

 

[tb144050]

Generally, most plastics have a very high melting temperature. Most are far above the boiling point. Some common melting points via google, are:
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The melting point of HDPE (High Density Polyethelyne) is about 130 ºC
The melting point of LDPE (Low Density Polyethelyne) is about 110 ºC
The melting point of PET (Polyethylene terphthalate) is about 250—260 ºC
The melting point of PP (Polypropylene) is about 160—170 ºC
The melting point of PS (Polystyrene) is about 70—115 ºC
The melting point of PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) is about 75—90 ºC
^^source: At what temperature does plastic melt (Celsius)? - Yahoo Answers

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Generally:

1) FIRST make sure that the type of plastic you use will not melt and catch fire. (usually not an issue).

2) Without Leo's inside it, apply your heat source and plug it in for observation.

3) If it doesn't melt/soften while the heat source is at its full/unregulated power, then use a thermostat to control temps.

4) Verify temps with a thermometer or, preferably, with a IR temp gun.

5) When using your thermostat, Using a weaker heat source (that still reaches your desired temp) will provide a steadier surface temp than a stronger heat source. The stronger heat source (when turned on by the thermostat) will SHOOT the temp back up to your setting. The weaker heat source (when turned on by the thermostat) will not spike the temp up as quickly.
Note: I'm not entirely sure this makes a huge difference at all, but I would prefer smoother temp changes.

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I and alotttt of people use random plastic rubbermaid bins for housing. You just have to regulate those temps during normal use ----AND---- make sure it is not a fire hazard at the full operating temp of the heat source.

Disclaimer: use advice at own risk. I cannot be held responsible if you choose to proceed and something ever goes wrong. My advice is to make sure the plastic can withstand a thermostat failure.