Arcadia T5 uvb 12 lifespan?

[Fellowdt23]

Hi

Basically does anyone know when i should change my T5 light?
Arcadias website says 12 months on a typical 8-10 hour day i have mine on for 12-14 hours.
This is the 7 month of its life do you think i should change it?

Thanks

 

[sweetiepie9]

I though they had to be changed every 6 mo, like the Reptisun 10.0, but to be safe I'd change it now. Unless you have a solar meter to check the UVB output, it's impossible to figure out if it's still giving out the right UVB. And solar metres cost over $200. I have one because I have 6 Power Suns, so I like to keep track on a monthly basis to make sure the output is good.

 

[Fellowdt23]

Thanks,

I have always changed after about 6 months with my t8 lighting but Arcadia claim theres lasts 12

I think i will change it to be safe

Thanks

 

[Soulwind]

From the research I can find, the Arcadia T5 tubes are good for about 9 months
and are in serious need of replacement after that. They actually do give off UV for
a good 12+ months, but it's intensity has dropped below acceptable levels at normal
basking distances.

The T8 tubes are good for about 6-7 months just like the ReptiSun T8 tubes.

 

[Fellowdt23]

Thanks for the info much appreciated!

I will change tonight seeing as ive had it on for 12-14 hours rather than the recomended 8-10 hours.