Too close to UVB?

[delta94]

Right now my boy's basking spot is something similar to this: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000QFSNY4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_lBFRxb46SBD2R
Problem is, when he's sitting on it, the top of his head is a little over 5" away from the UVB light. That's too close, correct? What is the ideal distance? I've mostly heard that they should be able to get within 6" to 8" of it, but I've also heard 10" is ideal, and on Amazon (for the Reptisun 10.0 T8) it says the recommended distance is 10" to 20". I'm confused and getting frustrated..and my beardie's not happy with me constantly pestering him and moving stuff around lol. Do I need to try to break up the wood to make it shorter?

 

[CateAndMax]

I'm curious about this as well. I've heard several different answers to this and as a new owner, it feels unnerving not knowing.

 

[quyllur]

I believe for T8, 6-8" is the distance with no obstruction between bulb and dragon. If there is mesh in between, they need to be even closer, or ideally, move up to a T5 bulb and fixture.

 

[Taterbug]

Generally you don't want any lights closer than 6". Any light can be glaring and uncomfortable up close, just because they are small doesn't make it any more comfortable to close to a bright light that it would be for us. Too close at the lizard can climb on the light, potential damage it or get injured.

There isn't a great one size fits all answer to UV because there are a couple factors.
First is type : T8 Lights are weaker and need to be closer to be effective. Their maximum effective range is 6-12" depending on the fixture.
Second : Does the fixture have a reflector? A reflector can double the effective UV output, meaning it can be further away or more intence.
Third : Is there screen in the way? Screen reduced light by 35-50% depending on the type.

I would look at moving the lamp up on a stand or something rather than shortening the perch. Dragons are semi-arboreal and will appreciate any opportunity to climb.

Some more information about lights and positioning that i have put together is here: https://sites.google.com/site/thelizardmadness/lighting-guides