I have a UV coil type bulb that is 24 W, but the package says it equates to a 75 W due to the coil design. Most bulbs I see are the long flourescent type that go into a ballast, but most of the wattages seem to be much lower, like 20 or so watts. Since these types of lights generally recommend they be placed within 12" of the animal, I was wondering if the coil bulb, due to the higher wattage output, will reach a longer distance and still provide adequate UVA UVB? Also, I read that an electronic ballast should be used as apposed to a magnetic one due to the 60Hz hum. I was wondering what everybody else uses. Does anyone have any problems with a magnetic one? Does the hum seem to annoy your tegu(s)? I am in the process of getting a UV meter, but I was also wnating everyone's opinion.
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UVB UVA Bulbs
Replies (2)
I'm not sure how crucial the UVB even is, according to some of the discussions that have been taking place here. I wouldn't worry too much about getting a UVB meter. As long as you have a UVB fluorescent or a Powersun UV near the animal, I wouldn't think it would be a problem. I'm not sure that the UV coil bulbs emit UVB, however, so you'll need something else.
JonV
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The Blue Raja, Master of Silverware, forks speciality.
Howdy!
In my humble opinion, those coil bulbs are garbage. I use both a Powersun Mercury Vapor and a Reptisun 5.0 on many of my UV loving friends (beardeds, collareds etc.) However many people believe that a Tegu only needs/requires UV during it's 1st year or so, since they grow so darn fast! After a year, year and a half they do not require the UV as they have gotten over their massive growth spurt. I personally choose to use a Reptisun 5.0 anyway but I don't replace it as often as the other herps in my collection. It is suggested that they are replaced about every six months. With the Tegu enclosure I choose to change it every 8-10 months knowing that is not as essential with a Tegu as it is with some herps. Just my opinion however 
Happy Holidays Everyone!!!
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Peace!
KofSeattle
Reptile-Like
