When to Change UVB bulbs?

[Creeps]

I have a reptisun uvb 10 bulb.....is it every 6 months you have to change?? Does it not do the job past then?

 

[timisimaginary]

most reptisuns will last well past 6 months, but you have no way of knowing unless you purchase a uvb meter, and those run about $200. without one, you should change them out every 6 months to be safe and ensure adequate UVB at all times.

a UVB meter can save you money over the long run by extending the bulb's usable life but it's up to you if you want to make that kind of upfront expenditure or just go with the 6 month schedule. personally i like the peace of mind of knowing exactly how much UVB my reptile is getting, and being able to test new bulbs to ensure they aren't duds.