slate and tiles.

[binksy]

So in reply to my last post about sand and bark bits, I'm just on my way out to buy some slate or tiles. Does the heat mat go under the slate or tiles? And does it have the same amount of heat coming though or do i need to adjust the heat mat. Thanks again all.:main_thumbsup:

 

[dragonflyreptiles]

I left mine under the tank, tile (ceramic or slate) will retain and distribue heat better but the heat shouldn't need to be adjusted once you set your thermostat at 90 it will keep the hot side at about 90 no matter what substrate you use.

 

[2.1SRR.YYC]

I would keep the under tank heater under the tank (read outside the tank). I don't think you would want the leo coming into contact with the heater in any way.

When I went from carpet to slate I left the carpet in as a cusion for the slate but I found that the heat is being wasted in the carpet between the slate and the mat. I plan on removing the carpet at the next cleaning.

When I installed the slate I noticed a marked drop in temperature on the warm side even after the slate had fully adjusted to the heater. I think some of the heat is getting reflected back down into the heater by the slate. You just have to watch your temperatures. If you're using slate tiles make sure to sand the edges of any cut pieces as they can be quite sharp and possibly cut a leo.

Hope this helps...

 

[ReptileMan27]

Under defently, the belly heat is most important for heating leos .

 

[Scott&Nikki]

Outside of the tank. If you put it inside you could burn your leo.

 

[acpart]

I'm having some trouble with some of my tanks that have heat cable and ceramic tile where the bottom just doesn't get hot enough. In one tank in particular I have to remove the tile just above the heat source and put paper towel. When the weather gets warmer it's fine.

Aliza

 

[moosassah]

Aliza--I was having the same problem in Hidey's cage. I switched to 3 long ceramic tiles with paper towels over them & I leave a small 1/4" crack in between them. So far it's working out well.

 

[dragonflyreptiles]

it may be that your heat cable is too low wattage for the size tank.

Also what thermostat are you using, if you set it at 90 and the heat source can produce enough heat it should be working right.