Heat Tape Wiring Instructions

Heat tape is often used to regulate temperatures in snake enclosures.

Heat tape is a versatile way of heating your reptile cages and terrariums. The tape can be cut to a variety of custom lengths and shaped to heat nearly any sized enclosure. Heat tape is inexpensive and attaches to the bottom side of your enclosure or greenhouse, keeping the heating elements and electricity physically separate from items in the enclosure or greenhouse.

Things You'll Need

• Scissors
• Heat tape connectors
• Crimping tool or pliers
• Electrical cord with optional temperature regulator

Instructions

1. Cut the heat tape to the desired length. Make sure you do not cut through any of the heating elements that run across the width of the tape.

2. Place the connection clips on the outer edges of the tape, over the metal traces that run along the edges of the tape. Using a crimping tool or pliers, crimp the connector clips to form a tight bond between the tape and the clip.

3. Separate the two wires on the side of the electrical cable that does not have the plug by about two inches. This can be done by tightly grasping each wire and pulling them apart. Insert one wire into each of the two clips that are attached to the tape and crimp the other side of the clip over the wire.

Tips & Warnings

• To more accurately control the heat in your enclosure, use an electrical cord that comes with a thermostat or temperature controller attached.

References

• Herp Center Network: Wiring Heat Tape