Uvb noob question? help?

[Lanky]

Im new to using uvb and i want to try into with my northern BTS skink i know its a bit of in between if you need or not but i wanna try uvb with my bts any idea where to start and what to buy?

[mb606587]

For uvb lighting, linear bulbs or the long tubes are usually recommended. You will need the bulb and the hood fixture. Most go with 10% or 12%, especially if placing on top of a screen. I use 5%, but mine are mounted inside the enclosure at the minimum distance according to the package instructions, which is universally 6-8 inches. Any closer, and the uvb could be potentially harmful.

[4thInfantryVet]

Definitely check out the megaray products just make sure you don’t get a super high output one and over do it but I really like mine.

[Lanky]

ok so long tubing does that mean i need liek aquarium hood lights?

[kingofnobbys]

No.

The brands you are looking for in T8 and T5ho uvb tubes are Zoo Med, Exo Terra and Arcadia Reptile. That is it.

The hood should have a reflector builtin . Some use domestic fittings and remove the plastic screen & add a slip on reflector.

Show us the hood and tube you are thinking of using to give your northern BTS UV and you'll be told yes or no. I think you are looking at a T5HO rated at least 10%uvb.
A mesh screen will block 50% of the UV.

[Lanky]

i saw a T-5 at my local herp store is it possible for me to hook to like a wood piece where screen mesh wouldnt be for better uvb? also the uvb tube was a zoomed product with i believe 10 on it

[kingofnobbys]

i saw a T-5 at my local herp store is it possible for me to hook to like a wood piece where screen mesh wouldnt be for better uvb? also the uvb tube was a zoomed product with i believe 10 on it

Careful with the current batch of Zoo Med T5HO 10% tubes, they changed their phosphors and the UV output decays much faster than it should since this change was made.

I'd get an Arcadia T5HO 12%uvb tube , these are excellent and guaranteed to last at least 12 months.

Mounting the hood under mesh , poke two cable ties (or twist ties) though the mesh to form two loose loops (one at each end of the hood, tighten the cable ties , job done.

[Lanky]

would i be able to find arcadia at a expo? if not where is a good online store?

[mb606587]

You can get them from Reptile Basics online store among others. I'm sure Amazon too.