30x30x45 exo terra

[JonathanSmith]

Hi,

im seem to having trouble keeping heat within my p.regalis tank. Temp seems to average 65 F on the thermometer, I have a heat mat on the back (the same size as the tank) and a 15w night lamp from above. I considered trying a infrared bulb instead...what are people thoughts?

[Arron Hooks]

By back do you mean behind the polystyrene backdrop that comes with these vivs?

[JonathanSmith]

Yes, I was unsure as to whether the heat would still go through but I read an article on the Internet that suggested that it was designed to still allow heat through...I'm now starting to believe that this isn't the case...

[Arron Hooks]

Yeah, polystyrene is pretty good at blocking heat, I have even been suggested to use it on the back of a mat so all the heat goes forward into the enclosure. Try sticking it to one of the sides, should be an improvement.

[JonathanSmith]

Yes, I think I may have to. I have removed out my other two tanks and I have no issues but as my p.regalis is arboreal I thought she might like it keeping in but oh we'll, if rather her be warm and create something myself

[Peter Roach]

Heat will NOT be able to get through the polystyrene backing. As Arron has said, put the heatmat onto the side and I would also partially cover the meshed top to keep the heat in

What type of thermometer are you using ?
If it is a dial type . . throw it away as they are totally useless and inaccurate rubbish.

[JonathanSmith]

Yes im using the dial type, shall a mercury thermometer be better?

Since coming back from.work i had trimmed a large section of the backing away as to expose the heat mat more, temp seems to be on the up and she still has a good bit to climb on so ill keep monitering it and see how it goes. If necessaey i will remove it completely and try a new layout.

[JonathanSmith]

I've had to remove the polystyrene backing completely as just removing a section showed little to no improvement in temperature. Will check again in morning.