Another Heat Question

[Bill]

I am wondering about the differences between human heat pads vs. heat tape? I use human pads set on low or med. but I notice that many people seem to use heat tape. Though I might be missing something?

Also, anybody have an opinion about over head vs. under tank or a combo of both?

[redtailboas]

Well human heat pads are not designed for prolonged use, and come with a possible fire hazard warning if misused.  Also if used inside the enclosure they present more of a hazard, due to the fact that they are not designed to get wet at all.  These may provide temporary solutions, but don't purchase one in thinking that it will be a long term solution. And I would not recommend having them inside the enclosure because they are prone to hot spots just as the heat rocks and heat caves.  They are heated in much a similar way.

When comparing the two in a VS. situation I would look for a long term solution.  I would recommend avoiding the human heat pad and go straight with the heat tape/under the tank heater products, which are designed for Always On use.  

Also heat tape products such as Flex Watt and the premade versions of heat tape in all under the tank style heaters provide a much much better solution as far as steady heat source, reliability, safety, and they will save money in the long run through the extended life of the products, and the money savings in electricity usage.

Heat tape products of all kinds provide a long term solution for our husbandry needs and would definately be the one I would choose in this scenario.