T5 or T8?

[YoursTruly]

Reptisun 10 question. I currently have a T8 bulb in my girl's 36x18x12 tank. At 7-8 inches away, when she is basking, is this enough? Or should I get the T5? Any help would be appreciated, as I've heard conflicting things.

 

[Gormagon]

It might be a bit confusing but, I have not read anything conflicting, lol!
The T5 HO is a 5/8 diameter bulb and is a lot stronger than the T8 which is 7/8 diameter bulb. This is why they take two totally different fixtures.
Distances vary because of the of uvb output strength:
10.0 T8......... Distance 6" to 8" to basking spot, for effect desired under the screen top (no obstruction)

10.0 T5 HO... Distance 12" to 18" to basking spot for desired effect.. Closer if above screen top 10" to 14"

I know its confusing cause it confused me for a while to, lol!

 

[CooperDragon]

In a tank that size I'd go with a T5. The 22'' should do. Just mount it over the top of the basking area and create some zones so you have high UVB over the basking area and low UVB over the cool side. That gradient will work like the heat gradient and allow for self regulation.