Humidity issues

[JayTay]

New owner of a Russian here, and I'm struggling to keep the humidity/moisture in Rosebud's house.

What I've got:
1) Exo-Terra Solar Glo bulb (see below)
2) Glass terrarium (top off) (36"L x 18"W)
3) Substrate: coir/sand mix (3-4 inches)

Sadly, the bulb isn't functioning correctly. I checked the temperature today and he is not getting above 73 in his basking spot, even though the light still functions. I'm hoping that he's getting at least UV until I can get another Solar-Pro.

He's clearly not getting what he needs, but he's still eating and active. What's the best way to ensure that good level of humidity with this kind of set up?

 

[WillTort2]

What is the room temperature where his enclosure is located?

Try putting a dark flat rock or piece of slate under the basking light.

Until you get the temperature up the humidity should not be your priority.

I'm wondering if your temperature gauge is accurate.

How long is your Russian? If a baby then warm temperatures and high humidity are more important.

What is your ratio of sand to coco coir?

Covering part of the top will increase both the humidity and the temperature.

 

[JayTay]

What is the room temperature where his enclosure is located?

Try putting a dark flat rock or piece of slate under the basking light.

Until you get the temperature up the humidity should not be your priority.

I'm wondering if your temperature gauge is accurate.

How long is your Russian? If a baby then warm temperatures and high humidity are more important.

What is your ratio of sand to coco coir?

Covering part of the top will increase both the humidity and the temperature.

Rosebud is 9ish years old and his shell is about 5" big.

The room is the warmest in the house - 70ish degrees. I'll dig out a rock from the garden.

The gauge seems accurate, which prompted me to order another bulb. We're just trying to make him comfortable until the new one arrives. I've heard people complain about the Solar Pro bulbs going out quickly. Mine was still lighting up but evidently not getting enough heat. (I turn the light on just prior to leaving for work, so I don't quite know when it failed.)

I did just a bit more coir to sand, but I think I'm going to change it out soon. I don't think it's quite working. I've got topsoil, coir, orchid bark and moss at my disposal to make a better set up. Suggestions?