Bearded dragon ceramic heat lamp. Ceramic heat lamps provide necessary heat and provide an important light source for the area.
This article will discuss all the important information needed to know when choosing a ceramic heat lamp for your bearded dragon:
Determine wattage of Bearded Dragon Ceramic Heat Lamp
The wattage of your ceramic heat lamp depends on the size of your enclosure, as well as its ambient temperature. Calculate the wattage that you need by multiplying the volume in cubic feet by 3 to get the total wattage needed.
For example, if the volume of your enclosure is 10 cubic feet, then you need a 30-watt lamp. If you have multiple enclosures, be sure to calculate the wattages separately for each one.
Select Appropriate Coverage Area
For bearded dragons, most people recommend using ceramic lamps with coverage areas between 1 and 4 square feet per every 10 gallons of tank space (1 gallon 256 cubic inches).
The greater number of bulbs used with small tanks allows for increased coverage at short distances from their basking spot which helps them feel more secure than overhead lights.
Look for UVB Emitting Bulbs
UVB emitting bulbs are essential for providing bearded dragons with vitamin D3 in order to properly utilize calcium intake from their diet and prevent metabolic bone disease.
Therefore, when selecting a ceramic bulb make sure it also emits UVB light with wavelengths between 290-320nm specifically suitable for appropriate calculation D levels UVA/UVB ratio should be about 3/2 in favor of UVB light.
Use a Temperature Display Device
To ensure that temperatures stay within optimal ranges without getting too hot or col.
You’ll need an accurate thermometer which can be found at pet stores or online retailers like Amazon or eBay A digital thermometer can monitor both basking surface temperatures and tank air temperature readings simultaneously.
While also enabling visible indication of zone differentiation throughout the aquarium providing an efficient way to control climate parameters in any given setup.
Choose Quality Bulb Ratings
When buying any type of bulb it’s important to make sure that it’s made with quality materials that won’t break easily.
Beware sharp internal edges which may cause injury to lizard pets Avoid cheap bulbs sometimes found online.
In addition most quality bulbs come with a warranty so look for ones offering those benefits as additional assurance against possible product malfunctions Lastly look at ratings from other customers who have purchased similar items before making any purchase decisions.
Check Heat Lamp Installation Guidelines
Always check manufacturer’s installation guidelines included with any bulb package There may be slight variations due to type size or model Install bulbs following these instructions as closely as possible.
Often times failing to follow procedures can result in damaging equipment failure or reduction in overall performance Not adhering to these regulations could void warranties resulting in out-of-pocket repair costs
Acclimatization Period
Before you turn on the ceramic heat lamp, let your bearded dragon acclimatize to its new environment first; this will help prevent shock or frostbite during periods of extreme temperature change.
Make sure to gradually ramp up the temps over a 1-2 week period instead of jumping straight into full-powered light cycles all at once – this will give time for their metabolism and hormones to adjust accordingly so that they don’t become distressed when exposed to sudden changes in temperature or light intensity.
Monitor Illumination & Temperature Levels
Once you’ve set up all lighting equipment properly (including supplementing UVB if needed), monitor both illumination intensity levels throughout the day using an appropriate lux meter; aim for 500-2000 lux levels depending on how far away from the basking spot is located and/or what type of UVB source provided (i.e., tube fluorescent vs mercury vapor bulb).
Additionally, digital thermometers may be used to ensure optimal temperatures between 75°F – 90°F (24°C – 32°C) throughout each day (warmest during midday hours). Remember not only do these devices need ample “run time” but also routine cleaning/maintenance periodically!
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