Under tank heating pads and heat rocks should be used with caution. These devises can malfunction and they are in direct or near direct contact with your pet. Maintain a close watch on the temperature and watch for burns on your pet. Some reptiles do not sense heat from beneath.

Use some common sense when setting up the tank. Always raise the tank to allow ventilation underneath. Make sure the pad is not in contact with anything flammable. The use of a remote sensor thermostat can reduce the risk of over heating and fire.

Ask yourself if you really need to use one before investing. Does your pet spend all day in the branches, on the walls of the enclosure or on top of a log basking? If so chances are you really do not need to spend your time or money on these products. In most cases an overhead heat lamp is all that is needed.