How to Use Spacers in Under Tank Heaters

Under tank heaters provide even and constant heat for your reptile habitat. The temperature in the tank largely depends on the ambient room temperature: The hotter it is in the room, the hotter the under tank header will make the habitat. For this reason, some people add spacers between the tank and the heater to provide air flow between them. This helps lower the temperature in the tank and prevents the heater from overheating and possibly starting a fire. Ceramic tiles make effective spacers.

Things You'll Need

  • Glass reptile aquarium
  • Under tank heater
  • Small squares of ceramic tile
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Instructions

    • 1

      Lift the tank off of the under-tank heating pad. Depending on what you have in the tank, you might want to empty it first.

    • 2

      Add the ceramic tile squares over the surface of the heater, spaced about two inches apart. The additional tiles will help distribute the weight of the tank. Pressure points can cause the glass to crack, particularly if the tank is full of rocks or other heavy objects.

    • 3

      Carefully place the tank on the heater so that the bottom rests on the tiles. This will give you about a quarter of an inch of a gap between the heater and the tank. Air will now be able to get between the two and help vent some of the heat.

    • 4

      Check the temperature in the tank. Make sure it is where you want it before returning your pet to the tank.