So, my temps right now are about 99* for the basking spot, and then 76* on the cool side, once I get the UVB installed (10.0 T5 H0, about 8" away from basking spot, through screen with a reflector) I assume the temps might go up? So, should I get a little weaker basking bulb? I'm using a 75w flood light right now, so maybe a 65w? My cage is the exoterra 36x18x18. Thank you all!
The UVB won't really produce much heat. They are just warm to the touch. You may want to stick with what you have or even get a more powerful bulb and raise it up on an adjustable stand which would produce a wider basking area (not necessary, just an idea).
Welp, after lifting the light about 10 inches away from the screen, and upping it to a 90w I was able to stabilize the temperature to about 102* and get a nice 87* in the middle, and about 77* all the way to the cool side. Hopefully, the UVB won't do too much to the temp because they're almost perfect right now. Also, will it be okay to have my dragon not get uvb for a couple days? I'm getting her on Saturday, but the UVB bulb isn't getting here until tuesday, and the fixture maybe even a few days after that. I will be able to take her out into the hot florida sun for a couple hours each day though.
That sounds just about perfect! Don't worry about minor fluctuations, that's why I usually recommend a range and if you maintain a gradient like that your dragon can just move around to change temps no problem. Being without UVB for a little while shouldn't cause an issue either.
The plan is to take her outside to play on my days off work (Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays) for an hour or two. I can't wait to get her I am so excited. 2 months worth of research all paying off.