Which bulb from home depot is best for my new tank?

[DragonQueeen]

Hey guys, I just got a 125 gallon (72x18x22 inch) tank for my dragon, and I’ve heard that halogen bulbs/regular house bulbs from places like Lowe’s/Home Depot are an inexpensive alternative to the reptile brand bulbs that are crazy expensive.

Would this bulb work? If not, can someone tell me what would work, and attach a link if possible?
https://www.homedepot.com/p/Philips...ndoor-Outdoor-Spotlight-Bulb-419382/203231666

 

[KarrieRee]

I got one from Home Depot and it was too hot - I had gotten a Phillips 90 watt and it makes his basking spot over 200 degrees- I have not used it --- I am using a Exo Terro 100 watt and my tank is a 120 gallon Zen Habitat-- keeps basking area plenty warm --- I also have a heat emitter 100 watt on top as well but thats in the center of the tank -- and I also live in MN so its needed during winter and off during the summer!

Karrie

 

[DragonQueeen]

I got one from Home Depot and it was too hot - I had gotten a Phillips 90 watt and it makes his basking spot over 200 degrees- I have not used it --- I am using a Exo Terro 100 watt and my tank is a 120 gallon Zen Habitat-- keeps basking area plenty warm --- I also have a heat emitter 100 watt on top as well but thats in the center of the tank -- and I also live in MN so its needed during winter and off during the summer!

Karrie

I’ll try a 60-70 watt, just cause I’m trying to stay away from reptile brand bulbs. Thank you!

 

[Aaradimian]

I’ll try a 60-70 watt, just cause I’m trying to stay away from reptile brand bulbs. Thank you!

That's probably a good place to start. I have found that 75 W floods work best for me. If you can, try to get a fixture with a dimmer switch too. It makes it way easier to fine-tune the spot temperature vs trial & error with distances.

 

[CooperDragon]

You'll need to try some different wattages to find what works best in your tank. I use a 90w GE PAR38 halogen flood and it works well for my setup. I have the bulb about 25 inches above the bottom of the tank though. Avoid the eco bulbs and LEDs as they won't produce enough heat. Using a dimmer switch to fine tune or suspending it from an adjustable stand is a good idea as mentioned.

 

[SPandS]

I use regular house hold halogen bulbs from the dollar store. Usually a 2 pack, sometimes even a 3 pack for $1. I agree with using a dimmer, it makes everything so much easier.