heat problem

[ciaraalston]

I have a UTH attached to the back of my tank. I've read on here that most people say the heater must cover most of the back, but mine only covers about half, maybe a little less. I have a 20 gal long. I have it plugged into a thermostat and the temp set to 82 F. But unfortunately the temperature fluctuates between 72 and 79, depending on the time of day. It's almost like the heater can't keep up! I ordered it from amazon for like $20. Should i get a bigger one? What do yall recommend? I have a black mat that stick to the back right now, i forget the brand. I'll look at it when i get home from work. Any recommendations?

[Hermie225]

Many crabbers here recommend an Ultratherm UTH, you can order one online from reptilebasics.com or thebeanfarm.com.
These heat mats are also safe to insulate if needed, with layer of tin foil/cardboard, etc. My UTH is actually a little smaller for my tank but I have it insulated and the lowest my temp has got is 73*F on occasion,if I leave a fan blowing cool outside air in the house and forget to drape the tank with a throw blanket. (I like a cool house, >70*) Average temp 77-81 in the tank.
Also they do not have a sticky adhesive backing like Zoo Med brand UTH, but you can use heat tape, duct tape, etc to attach it.

Hope that helps!

[curlysister]

I have one on the back of my tank that was having trouble keeping up, so I added another one on the side.

[ciaraalston]

reptile basics has one that would cover most of the back and it's only $21.99! Thanks yall!