Lighting or under tank heater

[larry26]

I was just wondering if it was better to have an under tank heater for my geck or a heating lamp?

 

[LizMarie]

it's better to have an Under Tank Heater because Leopard Geckos need Belly Heat to digest their food.

 

[Lena]

Under tank heaters are a much better choice. Plus, cheaper in the long run!

 

[larry26]

So even tho i have heat lamps i should use under tank heaters instead

 

[Lena]

Yeah. It's better for their digestion.. And your pocket.

 

[kthehun89]

UTH for the win

 

[larry26]

could i still use the lights or is there no need

 

[Lena]

There's really no need. You'll get enough heat from the UTH alone.

 

[larry26]

So wut watt uth should i get and what size

 

[LizMarie]

So wut watt uth should i get and what size

You Under Tank Heater should cover atleast 1/3 or your tank.

 

[larry26]

ok i found a uth online it is called Exo terra heatwave "desert" it is 16 watt and measures 10.5" by 11.5" is this the right kind and size for a 20 gal tank?

 

[LizMarie]

ok i found a uth online it is called Exo terra heatwave "desert" it is 16 watt and measures 10.5" by 11.5" is this the right kind and size for a 20 gal tank?

if you have a 20gallon Long that should be perfect.

 

[larry26]

ok thanks i was also thinking of getting a thermostat is that something that i would need as well?

 

[LizMarie]

ok thanks i was also thinking of getting a thermostat is that something that i would need as well?

YES! Under tank Heaters are known to go well above 100 degrees and need to be regulated to maintain the proper temps. A thermostat is th best thing you can use.

 

[larry26]

ok.

just one more thing what is the tempature that i should set it at and where should i put the hermomitors to keep trck of the temp?

 

[LizMarie]

ok.

just one more thing what is the tempature that i should set it at and where should i put the hermomitors to keep trck of the temp?

Your Warm Side temp should be between 88-92F, even though some suggest up to 95F. I like to keep mine at 90ish because I have a rheostat and temps tend to jump with it.

I think you meant thermometer right? you should have a digital thermometer with a probe first of all. I like to put my probe on top of the substrate on the warm side, I tape if down so it doesn't move all over the place and change my temperature readings.

 

[larry26]

Ok thanks

 

[larry26]

Im going to the pet store to get the things but do i need any kind of lighting at all to keep the air warm or to make a moon light affect on the tank?