Uvb question

[Silvally]

Does a reflector increase the optimal range of a uvb light? My basking area is a bit further away from the uvb than recommended, if I need to I'll get something else for the beardie to bask on closer, but just wondering if I can save myself rearranging everything if I don't have to.

 

[Claudiusx]

Hi there,

Yes, a good reflector effectively doubles the output, AKA cuts the distance required in half.

However, when we give distance recommendations, it's usually based off of the bulb in a fixture with a reflector already.

Which bulb do you have? I will tell you the distance you should shoot for with or without a reflector, and whether or not it's ontop of the screen.

-Brandon

 

[Silvally]

I don't have a screen, it's a wooden enclosure, it's the arcadia 12 percent tube, t8

 

[Claudiusx]

For that bulb, without a reflector, you need it to be 5-6 inches from the basking site. If you put on a proper reflector, the basking site needs to be 10-12 inches away.

-Brandon

 

[Silvally]

Thanks, I'll try to move the branch a bit closer for now, it'd around 15 inches away from it right now, but I'd probably be able to balance it somehow

 

[Claudiusx]

At 15 inches away without a reflector, the UV level at the basking surface will be much too low to be providing the benefit you are after. So getting a reflector on it will be a big help.

In large tanks, the t5 versions are usually best as they have a much better effective distance.

In my 4x2x2s I use the 22 inch 14% t5's at about 18-20 inches away.

-Brandon

 

[Silvally]

When I have the money, I will probably get a t5 version, thanks for the information. I have a reflector fitted right now, will that be sufficient for some time untill I can get a higher branch (with aims to get a more powerful light in future)?

 

[Claudiusx]

The UV still will be less than you want, but it's definitely much better than without the reflector!

The sooner you can remedy it the better.

-Brandon

 

[Silvally]

Thanks for the help! I should be able to get this sorted by next week.

 

[Claudiusx]

Not a problem

Let us know if anything comes up and you have more questions

-Brandon

 

[Silvally]

Will do