Why shouldnt you directly place an undertank heater to a tank?

Question

i just got a snake and the guy at the store said i should buy a tile to put under the tank and then put the heater under the tile. he explained why but i cant remember! any help?

Answer 1

You can crack the tank if its too hot. I have mine directly attached, but its a medium sized one for a leopard gecko. Snakes require way more heat. We have a snake aswell but the heat source is from the top. If you put the light directly onto the tank it might not spread the heat as well too.  

Answer 2

There are several reasons why. If its a ball python, if you put the heater under the tank you can burn your snake. Same goes with corn snakes and some varieties of milk snakes.

Another reason is because your tank can overheat and the glass may crack. Tile will absorb the heat and filter it through the tank to prevent cracking or burning.

Make sure there is enough bedding or a rock between the heater and your snake. Ball pythons are extremely succeptable to burns and should be monitored closely when using under-tank heaters.

Never use a heating rock or pad with your snake.  

Answer 3

you can put it directly under the tank.  if he suggested a tile it is so that the snake doesn't lay directly on the spot where you put the heater and get overheated or burned. maybe it is a sensitive snake?