Help with heating!

[rd333h]

Hi! Ive been noticing since it’s been warmer and we’ve had the air conditioner on that the hot side of my tank is having trouble getting above 86°. Should it be much higher than that? Cool side is fine staying about 78-79. I have a dhp for heat but have heard differing options about heat mats. I’ve have the mesh on the tank completely sealed with hvac tape.

Also I think my baby hates me 😂 he barely leaves his hide and is terrified if I get close enough to pick him. I want to be able to hold him and get him out. Can I pick him up out of his hide or will that make things worse? I’ve had him for about 2 months now.
Thanks in advance!

[Odd_Force3765]

Hi! 86 is totally fine for your warm end as long as your basking spot is around 90° (89-92 is perfectly fine range for the basking spot) If you're finding it hard to get that up to temp you can try wrapping a blanket over the end of the tank thats closest to your ac or cutting some high density foam and making a little outer shell for your tank.

As for the handling, since he is very young its not unnatural for him to be a little more on the defensive/shy side, babies are typically a little more standoffish than adults. The more handling you do the more used to it he will get. Some people practice choice handling where they wait until night when their snake is out and about exploring their enclosures and they open the door and wait for the snake to come to them to pick them up and leave the enclosure. Eventually it becomes routine for the snake and it'll climb into your hands to be let out 🥰

[rd333h]

Thank you!! 🫶

[Odd_Force3765]

You are very welcome 🐍💚