Heat mat

[ChristianH26]

Hi. I’ve got a swell reptiles heat mat underneath a 4 x 2 x 2 viv. I’m just curious as I don’t fancy the thing exploding/melting anything especially Stevie, are these heat mats able to be placed under the viv obviously under a relatively large amount of force with the tank being on top of it ? I’d imagined they could be as this one didn’t come with an adhesive side as ones I’ve purchased in the past have. Thanks.

[Manny]

While not all heat mats are created equal. Any enclosure that sits directly on top of one is problematic. If you look at some of the more modern or enclosures built specifically to have heat mats under them they are slightly raised to allow airflow under them reducing a build up of heat so that they don't overheat. You can get around this by building or using some items to raise the bottom off it's stand to allow airflow underneath. Just be aware of the amount of weight pushing down on the floor from the substrate and decor. If it is one of the newer pvc enclosures. Double check the companies website. Many of them make an item called something along the line of a "riser". The intention of this is for stacking cages upon each other and allowing airflow between the bottom and top of the two cages. However it could easily be placed underneath a stand alone enclosure thereby providing the needed airflow.

Hope this is helpful to you.

[ChristianH26]

Yes unfortunately this was my concern. I think I have some wood blocks I can place under the viv to raise it slightly. Thanks for the advice

[Manny]

Your most welcome! Just keep in mind, the amount of weight from the substrate/decor when you raise that bottom.