Basking spot wattage question
Posted: 09 May 2021, 14:22
Hi,
I’m setting up our first enclosure for a Mediterranean hatchling and have installed UVB strip lights above 3/4s of the tortoise table. I’ve also installed a Arcadia Halogen Basking Spot 100w PAR38. I’ve mounted the spot at 30”/75cm above the substrate and the temps at the substrate level at the centre of the spot beam are reading 45C after 1/2 hr, measured with both a infrared meter and a probe. Room temp is around 21/22C, house is a new build so it isn't draughty. Temp under the spot is way too high and will be higher when measured at the tortoise shell height. Wondered what my next option should be, as I can’t raise the 100w any higher. Swap the 100w spot for a 50w or 75w. What heights do spots usually get installed at? My other options would be to install a thermostat or I do have a spare light dimmer I can wire in, though I'd need to lock off the dial to stop it from accidently being adjusted.
For info, the table is 190cm x 75cm its near a northerly facing window, so no direct sunlight.
Hatchling should be with us in a few weeks time so I need to sort this last piece of the puzzle.
Any help or advice greatly received as this all new to us.
I’m setting up our first enclosure for a Mediterranean hatchling and have installed UVB strip lights above 3/4s of the tortoise table. I’ve also installed a Arcadia Halogen Basking Spot 100w PAR38. I’ve mounted the spot at 30”/75cm above the substrate and the temps at the substrate level at the centre of the spot beam are reading 45C after 1/2 hr, measured with both a infrared meter and a probe. Room temp is around 21/22C, house is a new build so it isn't draughty. Temp under the spot is way too high and will be higher when measured at the tortoise shell height. Wondered what my next option should be, as I can’t raise the 100w any higher. Swap the 100w spot for a 50w or 75w. What heights do spots usually get installed at? My other options would be to install a thermostat or I do have a spare light dimmer I can wire in, though I'd need to lock off the dial to stop it from accidently being adjusted.
For info, the table is 190cm x 75cm its near a northerly facing window, so no direct sunlight.
Hatchling should be with us in a few weeks time so I need to sort this last piece of the puzzle.
Any help or advice greatly received as this all new to us.