Hi, I have a zoo med dual light kit and I bought two 100W UVA light bulbs. What is the normal life of these bulbs? They are a bit pricey and noticed that they only last a couple weeks or up to a month or two and they burn out. What kind of light bulbs do you guys use? I only have 1 turned at a time, once one burns out, i turn on the other one. Any bulbs you guys can recommend to me would be greatly appreciated!
I had this issue with the reptile specific bulbs too. I've been playing around with some different types over the years. The standard I've used that works well is a PAR38 halogen flood light. They are pretty durable and work well, but are heavy.
Recently I've been using bulbrite halogen bulbs for photography. They work well but are quite hot. Best to use with a dimmer or keep them at a good distance (mine are about 26'' from the basking area).
I have a BR30 pool/spa bulb on order that I will try next. Hopefully those will be durable, handle dimming, and produce adequate heat and bright light the way the photography bulbs have.
I've also noticed that the stupid things burn out pretty quickly, but I wrote it off to the fact that they get moved and sometimes jostled as I have to take them off the top to open the hab... but I'm a stubborn witch; I save all my receipts from Petco and just trot right back there and exchange the bulb for a new one, telling them it shouldn't have burned out so soon. Haven't ever had a problem, and I haven't had to buy a new one in several months now.
I can second that the halogen bulbs are great if you can keep the right distance for correct heat. A dimmer can work, but you still want to maintain good visual light.
I have also had good success with clear incandescent bulbs when the halogens were just too strong.