I recently switched out my Arcadia 12% for the 14%. Right now, I have it sitting on top of the screen (Zen Habitat). Is that okay given the strength of that bulb, and if so, what would the correct distance from my beardie be? I've searched and come up with so many different distances, I thought I would just ask. Next investment: solarmeter!
What is a solar meter? I have the Zen Habitat as well w/ the T 5 right now -- mine is in my tank approx 15 inches from him --- I will be switching out the bulb a D3 Arcadia in Dec -- they say it should be 10-11 inches for the T-5's - it is the HO- but not a 10.0 -- the T 8's 6-8 inches since they are not as strong a bulb as the T 5's--
Karrie
How close can your dragon get to it at the basking surface.
Leaving it on the screen will be fine. We used to all leave the old 10.0s on the screens for years and never had issues. I would only mount it in the tank if it was a 24"+ in height tank.
If you get that solarmeter make sure you let us know. Be interesting to be able to do some tests.
The 14% are pretty powerful. I haven't tested them myself yet, but have read that 15-20 inches above the main basking area is about right. Solarmeter is nice to have to double check that distance and test the output and longevity of the bulb though, if you can swing the initial cost.