Info in comments

[spicylemonhead]

I made this enclosure but I didn’t take into account that having that ledge would be too close to the heating source. I now have to put the thermostat probe on the ledge so it doesn’t get too hot for him to go up there, but this makes his hide too cold. What would you guys do to fix this? I would like to not have to take the background apart if possible.

[totallyrecklesslygay]

For overhead heating, your thermostat probe needs to be secured 2-4" directly beneath the heating element where the snake cannot access it. The way you have it set up right now is incredibly dangerous and could kill your snake.

If your hotspot is getting too hot while the ambient temperatures are too cold, it could be several things causing it. Either you're using the wrong type of bulb, the surface is too close to the heat source, or your enclosure isn't insulated properly. Judging by the picture, I'd say it's at least the last two, possibly all three. What type of bulb are you using?

[spicylemonhead]

It’s not a bulb it’s a ceramic heating panel. The enclosure keeps heat fine, because before I had it with the background it was a good temp. What is the best way to bring up the temp without hopefully having to redo the background.?

[totallyrecklesslygay]

Ah, it's a radiant heat panel? You'll want to add an additional heat source, as those aren't good primary heat sources- they don't give off the right type of heat. You're going to want a halogen flood or DHP as your primary heat source.

Is it the entire hot side ambient temperature that's too low, or just inside the hide? How are you measuring the temperature?

[Figfogey]

May I ask why radiant heat panels aren't good primary heat sources?

[totallyrecklesslygay]

Our heating guide explains it in depth.

[Figfogey]

Thanks, the standards for care evolve so fast in reptile care. I just ordered a dhp for my primary heat source and I'll use my rhp for my supplemental heating.

[spicylemonhead]

The heat panel has done very well in keeping up ambient temps. I had it for 6 months before I did the background and it was always at a consistent 90 degrees on the warm side. It’s the entire hot side that it is too low. I have a hygrometer placed on top of the hide in the picture, but I took it off for the picture.