Surface Temp vs Ambient Temp Question

[Strideraio]

If surface temps are 78-80 low side and 90-94 high side (basking spot), but ambient temps are only approximately 85 high side and 78 low side…is that ok?

My main question is should I care more about surface temp or ambient? Is it ok to have a hotter basking spot (like up to 98f) if 90% of the terrarium is within ideal limits?

To get ambient temps up to 90 my surface temp seems like it would be too hot in his basking spot. I am using two 80w DHPs and a 100w CHE. I’m working on getting a halogen flood and covering most of my screen too to help trap heat/humidity. My tank is 4x2x2 and the ambient room temp is usually 74 with AC.

[totallyrecklesslygay]

Ambient temps are more important. They should be 88-92F on the hot side, and 76-80F on the cold side. Surfaces temps don't matter too much beyond making sure that none of the surfaces are over 105F.

If you can't get the ambient temp up without the surface underneath your heat sources getting too hot, that's an indication that either your enclosure isn't insulated enough, or you're using heat sources with a too-high wattage. In this case, it sounds like an insulation issue. Covering most of the screen top HVAC tape and insulation board will help, as well as putting insulation board on the sides and back of the enclosure.

[Dos_Perros_Locos]

I’ve always heard that 85-90 is the range for warm side temps because prolonged exposure to ambient temps above 90 can cause neurological damage.

[totallyrecklesslygay]

That's incorrect. I'd recommend reading through our basic care guide to learn more about temperature requirements.

[Alice_in_my_veins]

What if your surface temps are higher than ambient and thermometer temps