exo terra 150 26w UVB

[syoung27]

Hey guys, gals.
So I've had my beardie about 6 months now and went out to purchase a fresh uvb when I up sized his Viv.

Now recently I've found out issues regarding the compact uvb bulbs. Although most text I find is dated even before 2010, is there still known issues with compact bulbs and the reptiles eyes? I'm super damn paranoid now, and I don't exactly have the loot right now to go out and buy a new tube light and fixture.

I've been previously using a 5.0 compact looking but not coiled uvb which came with his 20 Gallon setup I think from zoo med. I don't have the box. So now I have both uvb bulbs set up, because why not I figured. I have the fresh one above his basking spot beside the heat lamp.
Should I be concerned? I've had the new light arrangements for about two or more weeks, no real signs of issues or health deterioration. He still chills on his basking spot and I don't think I've noticed any issues with his eyes so far...

 

[CooperDragon]

The original concern about them emitting dangerous short wavelength UVB has been fixed from what I've read. The newer versions of the bulbs emit a similar output to a T8 tube. The eye issues can appear if the bulb is too close or isn't set overhead. The coil bulbs are visually pretty intense and could cause eye irritation due to that. As far as UVB goes, their range is about the same as a T8 tube. I posted my test results in your other thread but they emit effective UVB levels between about 6-8'' (closer to 6 if you use a screen) but they only provide this level of UVB about 4'' to either side of the bulb at that distance. I like to allow a basking area (both heat and UVB) to be at least the size of your dragon so basking can be done evenly. With a radius of only about 8'' of optimal UVB, it's difficult for larger dragons to do this. That's why I prefer the tube style lights. A T8 will produce a beam that is about 18'' long so it's easier to bask under. For higher intensity (greater distances) I prefer to use a T5 tube.

 

[ruben0311]

it's good you upgraded from the 5.0 though, although it will slowly start to produce less UVB it can definately still be used for regular lighting without the worry of raising temperatures too much. Cooper got all that i was gonna suggest too, he's a good lighting source IMO as he has done testing himself and not just relying on other data.

 

[syoung27]

Ok thanks for the replies! I'll stick with it temporarily then. Glad that the previous shortwave issue has sort of been resolved. From what I've read SO many beardies were affected. Sad companies don't care or properly test sometimes.