T5 10.0 mounting height

[Mwcrf450r]

What's the recommended distance from a basking spot for a t5 10.0 with and without a screen top? Currently running with screen top but should be starting a DIY tank tomorrow or shortly there after

 

[Claudiusx]

Assuming the t5 bulb is in a fixture with a reflector

12~ inches to basking surface.

If the fixture is mounted above the mesh (assume around a 30% blockage of output +/- 5-10%) then 9~ inches from the basking site.

If the fixture doesn't have a reflector, you will essentially need to cut both of those numbers in half, as the reflector in most cases almost doubles the uv exposure.

This should give you a basking UVI level of around 3-5, which is what you want to aim for

-Brandon