Controlling Temperatures in a Large Terrarium

[c0ld]

Hi,

I recently purchased the 36x18x36 (exo terra large x-tall) terrarium with plans to keep a group of crested or gargoyle geckos (ie. 1 male and 3 females).

The problem I am facing is that the room I am keeping this in is often around 65degrees, taking everything else down with it.

-I feel that a day and night bulb are good for creating a point of heat but can they penetrate down 30+ inches? and create an ambient heat?
-There is about 3 inches of clay pellets and then 2-3 inches of soil. Would a reptitherm mat underneath be a viable solution? I think on the box it says the substrate should be no more than 1.5 inches thick.
-A room heater would be too expensive I feel...thoughts? a room heater is often 900watts where a reptitherm is under 20w.

Thoughts and suggestions would be much appreciated.

Regards,
C

 

[Aimless]

you can use a side-mounted heat mat. another alternative would be a pair of low-watt CHEs. you can get them as low as 25 watts, and they would create a gradient for your geckos.

 

[c0ld]

Thanks Aimless

The side mat thing doesn't work in my experience. Have you seen differently?

I have an exoterra range hood with 4 horizontal bulb sockets... could I install CHE's in there?

-C

 

[Aimless]

I would not install a CHE in anything other than a ceramic fixture because of fire hazard.

I personally don't like side-mounted mats, but I know folks who just swear by them so I include them as an option.