I found a thread on my ball python forum I thought you guys would find pretty useful. Have you ever applied an undertank heater, and then want to remove it/move it? You can't just rip it off, that damages the heating element. Here's how.
Warning: It requires the tank to be empty, haha.
http://ball-pythons.net/forums/showthread.php?t=66262
Here's how to remove UTHs from a tank safely!
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NotaMallard
Topic author - Posts: 55
- Joined: Sat Jan 10, 2009 9:39 pm
- Location: Indiana
Here's how to remove UTHs from a tank safely!
I've got a zoo in my house. I should charge admission.
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MudCrabDude
Interesting read! I wish I had this before I have installed my 20 gallon (so currently, it has an UTH attached that is not plugged into anything but is stuck under there...
written by: Missi182
HOW TO REMOVE A UTH (UNDER TANK HEATER)!
WARNING – This procedure is to be supervised by an adult and requires a WELL ventilated area. Because a chemical remover is being used in this procedure – the UTH is OFF.
1) Begin by flipping your tank over so the UTH can be easily removed. Place a towel under the tank to ensure no damage is done to the carpet/floor. It is wise to do this process in a bath tub or even a warm garage.
Materials needed:
- Goof Off Remover or Goo Gone. Goof off works very well.
- A spatula (plastic but not flimsy) or a putty spatula.
- Water in a bowl or spray bottle.
- A few rags or some really tough paper towel (shop towels work
great)
- A WELL ventilated area.
- Latex gloves are not suggested as they WILL MELT if in contact
with the remover; the remover may cause slight irritation of the
skin so remember to wash your hands frequently.
2) Begin by squeezing the Goof Off remover around the UTH. Allow to sit for a few minutes.
3) Wedge the spatula under the UTH. DO NOT LIFT! You will damage the UTH if you lift while wedging the spatula under the UTH. Use a gentle right to left motion, keeping the spatula flat against the glass. If there is resistance, use more Goof Off.
4) Once the UTH is removed, use the spatula to GENTLY remove the glue from the UTH. Soak a rag/paper towel in water and wipe the UTH clear of the chemical remover and glue. It is O.K if glue remains on the UTH.
5) To re-use the UTH, cover it in Aluminium Foil Tape. This will allow even heat transfer when it is re-used and allows the UTH to be moved when ever needed.
6) Squeeze a small amount of Goof Off on the surface of the tank, and gently “squeegee” the remaining glue off. Spray with water or wipe clean with a damp rag/paper towel.
7) CLEAN YOUR TANK – WELL! Rinse VERY WELL with COOL water first – hot water and chemicals create fumes. Wash the tank (I prefer good old dish soap) with warm water and rinse well again.
You're done!
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Silver Buttons
- Posts: 61
- Joined: Tue May 26, 2009 6:45 pm
- Location: Prescott, AZ
- Contact:
Wish I'd read this BEFORE I took mine off the back of the tank. 
I was really careful, though, so maybe I didn't damage it...but then, I don't think I should take a chance. I'd hate for my apartment to burninate while I'm gone! Why don't they make these things so they can be safely and easily removed? 
I was really careful, though, so maybe I didn't damage it...but then, I don't think I should take a chance. I'd hate for my apartment to burninate while I'm gone! Why don't they make these things so they can be safely and easily removed?