I just built my first snake rack, 4’x2’. I’m using 6” heat tape on a thermostat. I have the thermostat probe taped to the heat tape on the end where the wires don’t come in, I’ve moved the probe to multiple spots and have the temperature set is 90. On the side where the wires are connected I’m getting hotter temps, there is a 10 degree temp difference between the wire connection side and the other end.
Part of your problem here is going to be the fact that you’re using an open shelving unit as a rack, meaning unless you’ve enclosed 3/4 sides, you’re fighting room temperature to heat everything. What is your actual room temperature? Also, heat tape itself is not terribly accurate and most sellers will note a fluctuation of up to 5%.
Bit of troubleshooting, what kind of heat tape are you using? Does it have a maximum suggested temperature? What kind of tape are you using to hold the heat tape down? What does the actual setup itself look like?
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The heat tape is from Josh’s frogs website. I’m using aluminum tape. The rack will be 3/4 enclosed but I wanted to get the heat tape temps normal.
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Personally I absolutely would not be putting aluminum tape over the copper on the ends whatsoever. If you have any bit of that connection not covered by electrical tape you have the chance to create problems. I’ve also heard you can get buzzing if you put the tape over any of the copper along the length itself, so that’s something to think about.
Josh’s Frogs sells the THG brand of heat tape, same as Reptile Basics, you can find their FAQ here: Heat Tape FAQ: They have a section that explains that heat tape will have these fluctuations normally, about 5ºF at 100ºF setting, some better, some worse. I’d enclose it all and see what you’re measuring after that.
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Thanks for the concern about the copper ends but I do have them covered with electrical tape. I get the fluctuation difference but one side being 100 and the other being 90 is a little crazy.
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