Providing adequate UVB lighting is essential for the health and well-being of your bearded dragon. The right UVB light source mimics natural sunlight and enables proper calcium metabolism. In this comprehensive buying guide, we will explore the key factors to consider when selecting the best UVB light for your bearded dragon’s 40-gallon tank.
List of The 10 Best UVB Lights
We have listed the 10 best UVB lights among many great brand products. You can get these lights at a reasonable price for your beloved bearded dragons. If you don’t have the time to go through the in-depth of these products, you can just look into them from below and choose your desired UVB light.
So here is the list of the 10 best UVB lights,
- ZOO MED T8 ReptiSun 10.0 UVB Fluorescent Lamp
- Reptile Systems T5 UVB Lamp Ferguson Zone 3 – 12% 1150mm 54w
- Sylvania 69448 – H37KC-250/DX Mercury Vapor Light Bulb
- Zilla Desert Series Fluorescent Coil Bulb
- REPTI ZOO T5 HO UVB Lighting Combo Kit, Terrarium Hood Comes with Desert 10.0 UVB T5 Lamp (24W)
- Arcadia ProT5 UVB Kit – 12% UVB Desert, 24 Inch (Bulb & Fixture)
- Zoo Med ReptiSun® 10.0 High Output UVB Fluorescent Bulb 17 Watts, 24-Inch
- (2 Pack) Zoo Med Reptisun 10.0 Uvb Mini Compact Fluorescent
- Zoomed Bearded Dragon Combo Lighting
Buyer’s Guide For Choosing The Best UVB Light
Buying a UVB lamp for your bearded dragon or other reptile requires careful consideration of a few key variables. By making the best decision, you can ensure your scaly pal gets the UVB exposure they need. Let’s take a closer look at the most important considerations before purchasing.
- Lights Output for UVB: The light’s UVB output is the most important consideration. Reptiles absorb more calcium and produce more vitamin D when exposed to UVB rays. It is crucial to choose a UVB lamp that corresponds to the unique requirements of your reptile species. Choosing lights with an even and sufficient amount of UVB for your reptile’s species is important.
- Dimensions: Think about the dimensions of the space in which your reptile will be housed. Larger enclosures need UVB lamps with a wider coverage area to guarantee that every part of the habitat gets enough UVB light. However, a narrower beam angle may be necessary for smaller tanks. Carefully compare the size of your reptile’s habitat to the area covered by the UVB lamp.
- Compatibility with Hood/Fixture: Make sure the fixture or hood you already have or want to buy is compatible with the UVB lamp you choose. Some UVB lamps have their own mounting hardware, whereas others do not. Make that the bulb and the fitting are compatible with one another. It’s important to think about how secure the fixture is and how simple it is to set up in order to prevent any accidents.
- Distance Control: For maximum efficacy, UVB lamps have ideal spacing requirements. Always refer to the manufacturer’s specifications for the safest distance between your reptile and the light source. Too much heat and too much UVB radiation may arise from having the light too near, while not enough can result from having the light too distant. Maintaining appropriate spacing is crucial to creating a healthy and happy habitat for your reptile.
- Lifespan and Replacement: Think about how long the UVB lamp will last and how often it will need to be replaced. The lifetime of UVB bulbs varies and is often expressed in the number of hours of use. Switching to bulbs with a longer lifespan will save money. Your reptile must get a sufficient amount of UVB radiation; however, it is crucial to remember that UVB output decreases with time, thus, frequent replacement is required.
- Brand: Consider how well-known and trustworthy the brand is that you are considering buying. Pick a maker with a history of success in producing long-lasting, high-quality UVB illumination. User reviews and recommendations from other reptile owners may provide useful information regarding a product’s performance and longevity.
- Functions and Features: Some UVB lamps include extra functions that are beneficial to the reptile’s environment. Some of these functions include the ability to produce both UVB and UVA rays, programmable timers, and dimmable settings. These extras aren’t required to keep your reptile comfortable and stimulated, but they are a nice bonus.
Considering these will help you pick the best UVB lamp for your bearded dragon or other reptile. Remember that proper UVB illumination is essential for their health, calcium metabolism, and natural habits.
To make sure you’re providing for your reptile properly, it’s a good idea to consult a care guide or an expert on the species in question. Providing your scaly friend with a high-quality UVB lamp is an investment in their health and pleasure.
Table Of Comparison
| Product | UVB Output | Fixture Included | Coverage Area | Lifespan (hours) | Additional Features |
| LUCKY HERP UVA UVB Reptile Light 10.0 | 10.0 | No | N/A | N/A | – |
| Desert UVB 150 Compact Fluorescent Lamp 15W | 10.0 | No | N/A | N/A | – |
| ZOO MED T8 ReptiSun 10.0 UVB Fluorescent Lamp | 10.0 | No | Varies | 7,500 | – |
| Reptile Systems 36-in T5 12% UVB Juvenile Light Kit | 12% | Yes | Varies | 10,000 | – |
| Sylvania 69448 – H37KC-250/DX Mercury Vapor Light Bulb | N/A | No | N/A | N/A | – |
| Zilla Desert Series Fluorescent Coil Bulb | Varies | No | Varies | Varies | – |
| REPTI ZOO T5 HO UVB Lighting Combo Kit | 10.0 | Yes | Varies | 10,000 | – |
| Arcadia ProT5 UVB Kit – 12% UVB Desert, 24 Inch | 12% | Yes | Varies | 12,000 | Reflective aluminum reflector hood |
| Zoo Med ReptiSun® 10.0 High Output UVB Fluorescent Bulb 17 Watts | 10.0 | No | Varies | 10,000 | – |
| (2 Pack) Zoo Med Reptisun 10.0 Uvb Mini Compact Fluorescent | 10.0 | No | N/A | N/A | – |
10 Best UVB Lights for Your Bearded Dragons
1. LUCKY HERP UVA UVB Reptile Light 10.0, Desert UVB 150 Compact Fluorescent Lamp 15W:
The LUCKY HERP UVA UVB Reptile Light 10.0 is a compact fluorescent lamp designed for desert reptiles. It emits both UVA and UVB rays, providing essential ultraviolet light for your reptile’s health and well-being.
The LUCKY HERP UVB Reptile Light receives positive feedback for its excellent UVB output and compact size. Users appreciate the balanced UVA and UVB rays, which promote natural behaviors and calcium absorption in reptiles.
| Pros: | Cons: |
|---|---|
| Compact size, balanced UVA and UVB output, suitable for desert reptiles. | No fixture included a limited coverage area. |
2. ZOO MED T8 ReptiSun 10.0 UVB Fluorescent Lamp:
The ZOO MED T8 ReptiSun 10.0 UVB Fluorescent Lamp is designed to provide optimal UVB output for reptiles. It comes in various lengths to accommodate different tank sizes.
Users appreciate the ZOO MED T8 ReptiSun 10.0 for its reliable UVB output and compatibility with standard fixtures. It effectively supports reptile health and is known for its longevity.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Reliable UVB output, available in different lengths, compatible with standard fixtures. | Fixture not included, distance management required. |
3. Reptile Systems T5 UVB Lamp Ferguson Zone 3 – 12% 1150mm 54w
The Reptile Systems T5 UVB Lamp Ferguson Zone 3 – 12% 1150mm 54w is specifically designed for juvenile reptiles. It includes a T5 fluorescent lamp and a fixture for easy installation.
This light kit is highly regarded for its high-quality UVB output and the included fixture, which simplifies setup. Users appreciate its effectiveness in promoting healthy growth and development in juvenile reptiles.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Specifically designed for juveniles, high-quality UVB output, includes fixture for easy installation. | Specifically designed for juveniles, high-quality UVB output, includes fixtures for easy installation. |
4. Sylvania 69448 – H37KC-250/DX Mercury Vapor Light Bulb:
The Sylvania 69448 is a mercury vapor light bulb suitable for reptile habitats. It emits both UVA and UVB rays, providing a natural sunlight-like environment.
Users find the Sylvania 69448 to be a reliable and long-lasting mercury vapor bulb. It delivers a broad spectrum of light, including UVA and UVB, creating a realistic environment for reptiles.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| UVA and UVB output, broad-spectrum light, suitable for various reptile species. | No specific UVB percentage mentioned, may require additional fixtures. |
5. Zilla Desert Series Fluorescent Coil Bulb:
The Zilla Desert Series Fluorescent Coil Bulb is designed for desert reptiles. It produces a combination of UVA and UVB light to meet the needs of reptiles in arid environments.
Reptile owners appreciate the Zilla Desert Series Fluorescent Coil Bulb for its compact design and compatibility with standard fixtures. It provides adequate UVB exposure and is suitable for desert-dwelling reptiles.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Compact design, UVA and UVB output, suitable for desert reptiles. | Limited lifespan, may not cover large enclosures adequately. |
6. REPTI ZOO T5 HO UVB Lighting Combo Kit, Terrarium Hood Comes with Desert 10.0 UVB T5 Lamp (24W):
The REPTI ZOO T5 HO UVB Lighting Combo Kit is a complete package that includes a T5 HO UVB lamp and a terrarium hood. The kit is specifically designed for desert reptiles and provides high-output UVB lighting.
Users highly recommend this kit for its excellent UVB output and the convenience of having both the lamp and hood in one package. The T5 HO UVB lamp effectively meets the UVB needs of desert reptiles, promoting their overall health.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High-output UVB lighting includes terrarium hood, suitable for desert reptiles. | Bulb replacement is required, may not fit all tank sizes. |
7. Arcadia ProT5 UVB Kit – 12% UVB Desert, 24 Inch (Bulb & Fixture):
The Arcadia ProT5 UVB Kit is a complete set that includes a 12% UVB desert bulb and a fixture. It is designed to provide optimal UVB output for desert-dwelling reptiles.
Reptile enthusiasts praise the Arcadia ProT5 UVB Kit for its high-quality UVB output and the inclusion of a reliable fixture. The kit ensures proper UVB exposure, promoting healthy reptile growth and activity levels.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High-quality UVB output, including fixtures, suitable for desert reptiles. | High-quality UVB output, including fixture, suitable for desert reptiles. |
8. Zoo Med ReptiSun® 10.0 High Output UVB Fluorescent Bulb 17 Watts, 24-Inch:
The Zoo Med ReptiSun® 10.0 High Output UVB Fluorescent Bulb is designed to provide a high level of UVB output for reptiles. It is available in a 24-inch length and is compatible with standard fixtures.
Users appreciate the Zoo Med ReptiSun® 10.0 for its strong UVB output and compatibility with standard fixtures. It effectively supports reptile health and is known for its longevity.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High-output UVB lighting, compatible with standard fixtures, long lifespan. | Fixture not included may require distance management. |
9. (2 Pack) Zoo Med Reptisun 10.0 Uvb Mini Compact Fluorescent:
The (2 Pack) Zoo Med Reptisun 10.0 Uvb Mini Compact Fluorescent bulbs are designed for reptile habitats. They emit UVB rays, promoting vitamin D synthesis and calcium absorption.
Reptile owners appreciate these mini compact bulbs for their compact size and reliable UVB output. They are suitable for smaller enclosures and effectively provide the necessary UVB exposure for reptiles.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Compact size, UVB output, suitable for smaller enclosures. | Limited coverage area, may require multiple bulbs for larger enclosures. |
10. Zoomed Bearded Dragon Combo Lighting:
The Zoomed Bearded Dragon Combo Lighting includes a UVB fluorescent lamp and a heat emitter. It is specifically designed for bearded dragons, providing both UVB light and heat.
Bearded dragon owners highly recommend this combo lighting for its convenience and effectiveness. The UVB lamp supports their reptile’s UVB needs, while the heat emitter creates a warm basking spot.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Includes UV B lamp and heat emitter, convenient combo package, suitable for bearded dragons. | Bulb replacement required, may not fit all tank sizes adequately. |
Remember to assess the requirements of your reptile species and consult reliable sources, such as veterinarians or herpetologists, to ensure you provide the optimal UVB lighting for your reptile’s health and well-being. Regularly monitor the condition and performance of the UVB light to maintain its effectiveness over time.
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation, positioning, and replacement of UVB bulbs. Remember to monitor the distance between the UVB light and your reptile to ensure proper exposure without causing harm.
FAQ‘s
What size UVB light do I need for my bearded dragon?
Is 10.0 UVB good for bearded dragons?
What is 10.0 UVB?
Is 5.0 UVB good for bearded dragons?
Is 7 UVB good for bearded dragon?
Conclusion
Investing in high-quality UVB lamps is crucial for the long-term health of your bearded dragon or other reptile. Calcium absorption, metabolism, and behavior are all affected by UVB radiation. This shopping guide covers various UVB light sources suitable for bearded dragons and other reptiles in various environments.
Consider UVB output, coverage area, fixture compatibility, distance control, and overall value when selecting a lamp. Pay close attention to your reptile’s individual needs and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines when installing, setting, and replacing lamps. Do your homework, read reviews, and consult knowledgeable professionals to make a smart choice for your reptile’s health.
References
https://reptilestown.com/best-uvb-light-for-bearded-dragon-40-gallon-tank/
Selecting The Right Light Bulb For Your 40-Gallon Breeder Bearded Dragon Tank
https://mypetreptiles.com/best-uvb-bulbs-for-bearded-dragons/
https://jeffreyyounggren.com/what-watt-uvb-bulb-for-bearded-dragon-in-40-gallon-tank/