Too close to UVB?

[Sbu70]

Stumpy is a bit of a climber. I’m a bit worried that he’s getting too close to the uvb tube. He actually seems to prefer it up there than under his basking lamp. We’ve just changed his basking lamp from a 274/7 red lamp to a bright white 100 watt “mini sun” PAR38 that is on 14 hours a day and are still needing to adjust the thermostat to get to the correct temps.

He’s also a bit daft as happy to have locusts sitting on his head!

 

[Sbu70]

 

[CooperDragon]

Replacing the red bulb is a huge improvement. As far as the UVB light goes, yes and no. They can be visually quite intense at close range so I don't like to see the T8 bulbs closer than about 6'' from the basking area. Since this is just one branch though and he is choosing to be there and can move away easily, I'd leave him with that option if he wants it. Ultimately you might be better off upgrading the light to a T5 (I'm guessing it's a T8 based on the photo and a T5 would be absolutely blinding at that close range). Set the T5 directly overhead about 12'' or so above the main basking area and he will get a lot more UVB which might be why he's sneaking up so close in the first place.

 

[Sbu70]

Replacing the red bulb is a huge improvement. As far as the UVB light goes, yes and no. They can be visually quite intense at close range so I don't like to see the T8 bulbs closer than about 6'' from the basking area. Since this is just one branch though and he is choosing to be there and can move away easily, I'd leave him with that option if he wants it. Ultimately you might be better off upgrading the light to a T5 (I'm guessing it's a T8 based on the photo and a T5 would be absolutely blinding at that close range). Set the T5 directly overhead about 12'' or so above the main basking area and he will get a lot more UVB which might be why he's sneaking up so close in the first place.

Thank you so much. I did research before we got him and went to a specialist shop but I’m still learning!
The viv was set up by the shop and they mounted the uvb on the top back edge - it was Repti-Glo 10 24” 20 watt. But the shop also recommended corn cob substrate (which I replaced with tile once I became more educated) and also the red light because they said it wouldn’t disturb his sleep and it would be best to keep the temps the same. I’ve now learnt that the red light is not ideal and it’s better for the temps to cool overnight.
So, I changed to the white bulb and thought I’d change the tube at the same time and got the Arcadia 10% 18 watt but visually it’s not as bright as the previous one so I’ve made a mistake there.

I feel bad that my little pet has not had the best start andI want to get this right so I now need to get a T5 tube and fix it on the top of the viv rather than the back edge? Do I need different fixings for a T5 and would you recommend getting a reflector hood too? Sorry, I have read the care sheets but somethings obviously not going in!

Thank you

 

[Sbu70]

Here’s a pic of his set up.

 

[CooperDragon]

The "euro range" Arcadia T8 is a decent bulb but as a T8 it's not super powerful. Still, 6'' away it should be providing a good amount of UVB. If you can move the current fixture so it's overhead and above the basking area and fit a reflector over the back, it should do for now. The bulb will need replacing after about 6 months so you can consider the T5 at that point. It does require a different fixture/controller as well as a new bulb. They have an optimal output at 12'' though and produce UVB levels closer to natural sunlight.

 

[Drache613]

Moved by Moderator from General to Enclosures

 

[Drache613]

Hello,

I agree, if you can that would be great if you could mount it directly overhead for a better &
more evenly distributed UVB. PLus, it is easier on his eyes, too so that it doesn't glare into his
eyes.
The tank setup looks nice though!

Tracie

 

[Sbu70]

The "euro range" Arcadia T8 is a decent bulb but as a T8 it's not super powerful. Still, 6'' away it should be providing a good amount of UVB. If you can move the current fixture so it's overhead and above the basking area and fit a reflector over the back, it should do for now. The bulb will need replacing after about 6 months so you can consider the T5 at that point. It does require a different fixture/controller as well as a new bulb. They have an optimal output at 12'' though and produce UVB levels closer to natural sunlight.

Thank you so much. I shall make the changes and upgrade to a T5 straight away. Your advice is much appreciated.

 

[Sbu70]

Hello,

I agree, if you can that would be great if you could mount it directly overhead for a better &
more evenly distributed UVB. PLus, it is easier on his eyes, too so that it doesn't glare into his
eyes.
The tank setup looks nice though!

Tracie

Thank you, I shall make the changes. Stumpy loves his tree. I’m going to get a bigger viv when he’s older and then he’ll have a bit more climbing room.