One suggestion would be to add a small spacer to elevate the ballast off the wood and leave a gap to allow air circulation. This air space will keep the wood temperature down. That is what I am about to do with mine. I have to get the ballast out of the hood to bring down the water temp. Jeff <*\\>< Mt. 4:19 And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.