Need advice on uvb fixture size for new tank

[Brad85]

I was looking to get this new enclosure for my bearded dragon. It’s a 48x18x18. What size uvb fixture would you recommend? Some places online say one that covers 2/3 the cage. a local pet shop says a 36” fixture (bulb be 34”) would be the way to go but I don’t know if that would be to big. I’m planning to mount it inside and my beardie does have a hide away to get out of it. I’m planning to mount it inside so the wires will make it stretch a little further to the other side of the cage.

Just looking to get some ideas so I know what to get.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B07KP2D42W?psc=1&ref=ppx_pop_mob_b_asin_title

Thank you

 

[hdochow]

I have a 36", but most use a 24". It's not centered across the length, but pushed down to the hot end, so that the cool end is a place to get out of the UVB if Sir Henry wants. Front to back, it is pushed to the front with my basking bulb right behind it. Inside is good, and you'll want it 12-15" above the basking decor.

 

[KarrieRee]

I was looking to get this new enclosure for my bearded dragon. It’s a 48x18x18. What size uvb fixture would you recommend? Some places online say one that covers 2/3 the cage. a local pet shop says a 36” fixture (bulb be 34”) would be the way to go but I don’t know if that would be to big. I’m planning to mount it inside and my beardie does have a hide away to get out of it. I’m planning to mount it inside so the wires will make it stretch a little further to the other side of the cage.

Just looking to get some ideas so I know what to get.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B07KP2D42W?psc=1&ref=ppx_pop_mob_b_asin_title

Thank you

120 Gallon Reptile Enclosure (4’x2’x2’)

After listening to feedback from our customers, we have improved the construction of our original 120-gallon reptile enclosure to include additional structural support and sleeker features! Our newest enclosures have just landed at Symton HQ and we are working our hardest to get them off to you...

symtonbsf.com

Reptile Habitats 4x2x2 PVC Reptile Enclosure | $299 Free Shipping

4x2x2 120 Gallon Reptile Enclosure only $269 shipped, made of PVC, easy to assemble in minutes, extremely lightweight.

dubiaroaches.com

4'x2'x2' Original Wood Panel Reptile Enclosure | Zen Habitats

Zen Habitats 4'x2'x2' original wooden panel reptile enclosure is large enough for various zones and heat gradients. Click here to learn more!

www.zenhabitats.com

All of these would use a 24" fixture --- the Repti Zoo has a wide hole screen not sure how thick it is but a possibility of the UVB sitting on top --- but that depends on how thick that screen is

 

[xp29]

Personally i aways recommend 1/2 to 2/3, i like having good exposure but you have got to give a place to get out of it if they want to. I also try to make sure i have good overlap between the uvb and basking light. They will move around to get what they need.

 

[Claudiusx]

Moved by Moderator from General to Enclosures

 

[RangoRocky]

I have a lil over 120g tank and I brought the 30”

 

[KarrieRee]

I have a lil over 120g tank and I brought the 30”

As long as its not covering the whole tank

 

[Brad85]

Thank you everyone. I have a friend that has a solar meter so I’m fine with getting the right range for uvb so that won’t be an issue. Just trying to find out the right size fixture and go from there. Didn’t want to get one the wrong size.

 

[xp29]

As long as your beardie can get into the right range of uvb, it will seek it out and go there. Thats the most important part, just to have access to the right range of uvb.