UVB reflector hood... inside or out of the tank?

[Dreamwritten]

Hey all,

So I have a Reptisun 10.0 high output bulb for UVB, as recommended. I got one of those Zoo-med reflector hoods specifically for Reptisuns, and since acquiring that, it's been sitting over the mesh on my tank.

Now, I know that the tank mesh filters out some of the UVB, so I was researching the best ways to mount it INSIDE the tank when I came across this little bit of info: that the reflector hoods can elevate UVB to "dangerous levels".

Is this true? If it is, am I all right just leaving it over the mesh, so that a decent amount gets to my beardie without it being too much?

So much technical stuff. X_X

 

[samchavles]

The Mesh does filter out the UVB, As long as your beardie is at an ideal distance from the bulb (6-8 inches), he will be fine unless you see otherwise. (Eyes keeping closed, usual lighting problems). As far as the mesh goes, A simple solution to the screen mesh issue that I did was to unscrew all the screws from the top of the enclosure, having a buddy hold the lamp fixture inside of the screen pressing against the mesh, and screwing back through both the mesh, and the hood. This way the hood is mounted TO the mesh as long as it's strong enough for support, which most are.

 

[Dreamwritten]

Right, but my concern is that if i put it in the tank, it'll be TOO much UVB. He seems alert, awake, energetic, etc so is he fine?

Bump!

 

[Soulwind]

Is it a normal T8 tube or one of the newer "high output - HO" T5 tube?

And how far away from it is he when it's mounted inside the cage?

If it's a T8 tube, as long as he's about 6-7 inches away and no more than 9-10 inches
you'll be fine with the reflector hood in place.

With the T5 tubes, he needs to be a bit further away as they have a stronger output.

 

[Dreamwritten]

I have a 24" 610 mm 17 watt T8 Reptisun in the reflector hood, over the mesh, about 12-13" inches from the base of his tank and about 6" from his basking spot.

 

[Dreamwritten]

And this is my reflector hood: http://www.petmountain.com/product/reptile-hoods/11442-517291/reptisun-terrarium-hood.html

 

[Dreamwritten]

bump, still not sure what to do.