Megaray and Enclosure Questions

[ZANESMAMA]

I am looking for a new enclosure for Elvis. I found one on craigslist and the people selling it only live about an hour from here...go figure! The enclosure is 4x4x2, has glass on three sides and a wire top. Before I buy it, I was hoping to get some feedback. I'm thinking about going with a Megaray for the UVB. I'll probably set up two basking spots, using a plain bulb on one and the Megaray on the other. I'm wondering what experiences and successes or failures everyone has had with the Megaray. I have been pouring over the Reptile UV website and I really think the 160 watt is the way to go. I realize I'll never really know until I get it set up, how hard it is going to been to get the right temps and everything, but any FYI's will be greatly appreciated. BTW, Elvis is 21" long and weights about 600 grams now!!! He's a big fat king! :shock:

 

[RioReptiles]

Usually your temps help dictate the wattage, along with minimum and maximum recommended distance for ultimum UVB exposure. First you should go to reptileuv.com and read the recommended distances. So I guess it depends on your setup and furniture too. The distances he has listed are perfect for the right temp. I've got the 100w Mega Ray and my enclosure is 18" high with a basking platform ramped from 4" to 5". The temps get 106º at the top of the platform. If your's is 24" high, the temps wont get high enough unless you make a platform 12" from the bulb so a 160w is better if its going to be further away. It all works out if you do it right. You will love that light! I switched from Power Sun MVB and couldn't believe the difference in quality, they are junk in comparison imo. Cheryl