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What wattage under tank heater for my Kenyan sand boa? Heat lamp too?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

What watt under the tank heater will I need for a Kenyan sand boa? Will it prefer a heat lamp too? If so, what type of bulb?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on February 22nd, 2018

It will depend on the size of the cage as well as the size of the mat. A 20 gallon tank, for example, will use a heater in the 8-12 watt range. Whatever size you choose, be sure it includes a rheostat or thermostat to control temperature. A ceramic heat emitter (CHE) will provide heat without visible light if you need supplemental heat.

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    Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

    Licensed Veterinary Technician

    Published on February 27th, 2018

    This would depend on tank size. Unless you have a large tank (50 gallons +), a UTH in the 8-12 watt range should be sufficient. Be sure to use a rheostat/thermostat to control temperature. You'll need a lamp for a basking spot on one side of the enclosure. Use whatever wattage will achieve a temp in the basking spot of about 95F. Start with a 40 watt and go from there. This should create a gradient down to the 80s F on the cool side. Turn the lamp off at night, use a timer, butt leave the UTH on. Nighttime temperature can drop to about 75F.

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