Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Anybody else have these problems?

I bought one of the cheap clamp lamps from Home depot and it puts out great heat except with a 150W bulb there is this really high pinging sound (not sure how to describe it). It is annoying to me and Im sure to my beardie as well who has to sit under it.

I also bought a 8.5" Flukers clamp lamp from a pet store. It doesnt make the pinging sound but doesn't put ot nearly as much heat with the same 150W bulb. It's frustrating.

Any thoughts??

Thanks
Chris

The pinging is because its too hot,even though the light is rated for a 150 watt bulb they aren't made to be on all the time,the plastic base could melt or short out causing a fire.

You should use a good light with a ceramic base if you are going to run hight watt bulbs. I use the cheap guys from home depot but only use 60 watt bulbs,anything higher goes into a ceramic base light.

I won't even use the cheap ones with a 60 watt light. Think about it; they're marketed as 'work lights.' The manufacturerer, I think, assumes that you will go out after dinner and work for a few hours before bed, maybe changing your spark plugs. I doubt they are designed with continual 12 hour a day, every day use over long periods of time. Spending a bit more for ceramic sockets is much better than trying to replace your home and contents (not to mention your animals) after the cheap thing sets your house on fire.

Just my thoughts.

Leslie

Agreed. Ceramic is the best way to go, because it obviously retains heat better than other housings. Getting anything less is seriously risky.

The problem with lower wattage bulbs is your beardies needs that extra heat, it being a desert creature. If you want a happy, healthy little guy that thrives for years and years, don't skimp on his enclosure. Get him the best you can afford, and he'll love you for it.
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Dl

I should have clarified,the low watt bulbs are used on my frogs and roaches. I have high watt bulbs on my dragon in a ceramic base.