what 18 inch light fixture

[kaitlynnachole]

i’ve been looking into getting a uvb light fixture and i’m not sure what all to get. what’s the best and cheapest way to go

 

[CooperDragon]

Zilla Slimline is probably the most commonly available 18'' T8 fixture in the US. It's probably a good idea to replace the bulb with a T8 ReptiSun 10.0 though. Those fixtures come with a piece of clear plastic over the bulb that needs to be removed before using it, otherwise the plastic will intercept all of the UVB. The optimal distance for these fixture/bulb combination is about 6-8'' above the main basking area - so they're best suited for small enclosures.

Moved by moderator from Off Topic to Enclosures.

 

[kaitlynnachole]

where can i find the link for that?

 

[kaitlynnachole]

would this work GE 16466 Basic 18 Inch Fluorescent Under Cabinet Light Fixture, Plug in, Warm White, Plastic Housing, 5 Foot Cord, Perfect for Kitchen, Office, Garage, Flourescent https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000HJ75PW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_KTF4EA7CNZ3FFK48X57R?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

 

[CooperDragon]

I'm not a big fan of using those because they don't have reflectors built into them. The reflector that sits behind the bulb on a reptile specific or grow light fixtures helps direct more of the UVB downward from the fixture, increasing its effective output. This is especially important with the weaker T8 fixtures/bulbs.

 

[CooperDragon]

Looking at the cost of a T8 vs T5, a T8 might not be the most cost effective solution. A T5 bulb is stronger and requires replacement less frequently (roughly every 6mo for a T8 vs roughly 1yr+ for a T5 bulb).
It also depends on the distance you need to reach in order to provide adequate UVB. The optimal distance for a T5 fixture with a ReptiSun 5.0 bulb is around 6-8'' - about the same as a T8 - while the T5 with a ReptiSun 10.0 bulb has an optimal distance of around 12-14'' or so.

 

[KarrieRee]

www.pangeareptiles.com
check them out please fast and good