If you click a link on this page, then go on to make a purchase, we may receive a commission but at no extra cost to you. Learn More

UVB Light For Bearded Dragon: A Complete Guide

Bearded dragons are some of the animals that are very friendly to have as pets, however, it is necessary to know certain important aspects to keep them in captivity. One of them is that these reptiles require doses of UVB light, which in natural habitats they get from the sun’s rays.

These animals absorb calcium from ultraviolet radiation, which in the absence of sunlight they acquire from the rays emitted by UVB bulbs. They also need a heat source similar to what is the source of solar energy in nature, since this source is essential for these pets to regulate the normal processes of their organism.

IMAGEPRODUCTDETAILS
Evergreen Pet Supplies, 100 W Spotlight
  • Its operation is as indicated by the manufacturer.
  • Efficient durability.
  • It can be used in various types of terrariums, cages, aquariums, reptariums, and different types of materials such as plastic, PVC, acrylic, and glass.
ReptiSun 10.0 UVB Fluorescent Bulb
  • The durability of this bulb is more than one year.
  • Its price is lower than other bulbs of the same type.
  • They can be oriented both vertically and horizontally.
MyComfyPets two in one, UVB and UVA, 100 W
  • It does not emit annoying noises.
  • Equipped with a safety system to turn off in case of sudden movements, and turn off if the heat is excessive.
  • No risk of fire or explosion.
  • They heat up quickly.
160 Watts, Mercury Vapor Mega-Ray Bulb
  • Efficient concentration of UVB rays that provides greater benefit to the pet when it is under the circumference of the bulb’s action.
  • Extraordinary durability.
  • Energy saver.
  • High wattage makes it ideal for large ponds.
UVA and UVB spectrum heat lamp REPTI ZOO
  • It is an all-in-one device.
  • Automatic shut-off in case of over-temperature.
  • Balance of UV light, visible light, and infrared light.
  • Ease of installation.


The Best UVB Bulb For Bearded Dragon

If you are a lover of having a pet Bearded Dragon, you should acquire adequate knowledge about the care that these exotic animals require. The MBD is a disease that attacks the skeletal system of these dragons and is due to calcium deficiency in your body.

The main cause of this deficiency lies in the use of inadequate Ultra Violet bulbs, as a consequence of the lack of necessary amounts of UVB rays. The animal does not have the capacity to fulfill its efficient organic functions to produce and process the calcium they require.

Causing their bones to demineralize, becoming soft and susceptible to fractures easily. The use of the appropriate bulbs promotes a temperature in the terrarium. According to the needs of the dragons, this should be maintained during the day in a range of 25 to 31 C and at night should be a minimum of 21 C and 26°C as maximum.

If what you are surely looking for this that your pet enjoys excellent health because that will make you happy, then undoubtedly you should take advice to provide the environment where your powerful pet lives with the Best UVB Bulb For Bearded Dragon.

The best thing you can do is to make the decision to install those that are specially designed for these functions. So to help you, in choosing the best alternative we are going to inform you about the details of those that we consider the most efficient, so you can make a choice without the risk of uncertainty.


Evergreen Pet Supplies, 100 W Spotlight

No products found.

It is a spotlight based on mercury vapor, especially to provide a powerful UVA and UVB light that requires a reptile-like bearded dragon. Thanks to its CFL technology provide great energy savings, have their own unit for electrical control.

They provide the dragon’s environment with light and heat. Very similar to that produced by natural sunlight, making the environment completely healthy for your pet.

In order to make the best use of its qualities when using this bulb, it should be screwed into a standard socket of good and resistant ceramic. Since it generates a great amount of heat at its base and can be used without problems with various types of deep domes for spotlights.

Physically it has manageable dimensions, with a thread length of about 4 cm a little more than 12 cm between the base of its thread and the end of the diffuser bulb, and a little less than 12 cm in the diameter of its end. This bulb is designed to produce heat and light that pleases the pet and generally when installed.

The animals try to spend more time located under the rays of the clear light Daylight White, which produces its lens has a transparency that brings benefits when it comes to heat and light.

Pros

  • Its operation is as indicated by the manufacturer.
  • It can be used in various types of terrariums, cages, aquariums, reptariums, and different types of materials such as plastic, PVC, acrylic, and glass.
  • Efficient durability.

Cons

  • Its heating after ignition can take several minutes
  • It is difficult to find the right temperature because the graduation must be done manually by adjusting the distance from the bulb to the terrarium.


ReptiSun 10.0 UVB Fluorescent Bulb

ReptiSun 10.0 UVB Fluorescent Bulb


The most important aspects when selecting a product for purchase are the reputation of the manufacturer and the quality control of the product. This bulb is manufactured by a company like Zoo Med that enjoys great prestige in the field of lighting for animals.

It is a type of fluorescent new technology, is not polluting, is very light, with a proven guarantee of energy savings, and is very easy to use. It has a power of 13 watts and provides 10% in UVB emissions through quartz glass, these radiations prevent bone diseases in pets.

The ReptiSun also provides a percentage of 30 in UVA emissions that provide an increase in feeding, mating, and other natural behaviors of the bearded dragon. This bulb does not require the use of separate ballasts as its design is made for use in standard threaded sockets.

Physically, a Reptisun bulb looks like an energy-saving bulb, such as the so-called CFL. It has a standard thread that can be easily screwed into any socket, after the thread it has a white ceramic bell that has inside the integrated ballast, and three white U-shaped tubes that are the light emitters.

The way to use it is a completely simple process, you only need to remove it from the packaging and screw it into the socket, with the precaution of installing it on top of the screen cover, and note the date of commissioning to change it after 12 months.

Pros

  • The durability of this bulb is more than one year.
  • Its price is lower than other bulbs of the same type.
  • They can be oriented both vertically and horizontally.
  • Its dimensions allow a very adequate handling.

Cons

  • Although the durability may exceed one year, over time it loses the level of UV radiation emission.
  • Its illumination and heat production capacity is limited to the size of the terrarium; if the terrarium is large, this bulb will not be adequate.


MyComfyPets two in one, UVB and UVA, 100 W

MyComfyPets two in one, UVB and UVA, 100 W

This is a mercury lamp model UVB400, which has its own transformer and emits Ultra Violet rays that are not harmful. It has a guarantee of 10,000 hours of durability, does not suffer from overheating thanks to the thermal protection integrated into its design.

Despite its volume, it is not a bulb so heavy, less than a quarter of a kilo, the base of its wider end has a diameter of about 10 cm and a total length from end to end of about 11 cm.

The way of use is extremely simple, it is enough to screw it into a standard socket, keeping the appropriate distance between the bulb and the environment where the pet is.

This bulb is manufactured to provide the necessary amounts of UVA and UVB radiation that allow bearded dragons to improve the appearance of their skin and their color.

They become more active and this is because the radiations of the MyComfyPets two in one are very good for dragons for their organic processes, with this light your babies begin to feel better and improve their mood. Compared to other bulbs of its kind, there are benefits to consider:

Pros

  • It does not emit annoying noises.
  • Equipped with a safety system to turn off in case of sudden movements, and turn off if the heat is excessive.
  • No risk of fire or explosion.
  • They heat up quickly.
  • It is very resistant, it can withstand falls on not very hard floors without breaking.

Cons

  • You should look for the right distance to avoid excessive temperature in the terrarium.
  • The price is higher than other UVA and UVB bulbs.


160 Watts, Mercury Vapor Mega-Ray Bulb

160 Watts, Mercury Vapor Mega-Ray Bulb

This lamp is one of the most similar to nature in the production of UVB radiation, has enough power to provide the necessary heat that your pet needs. Designed and manufactured with advanced technology that provides the efficiency required for the ideal generation of UVA and UVB rays.

That is projected through a concentrated beam to a specific location without expanding, does not break down like other lamps of their kind.

With safety features that include an automatic ballast for your protection, the benefits and enjoyment this bulb brings to your pet are adequate for its good health. It can roam around its environment selecting the area of heat it is looking for inside the terrarium.


The thread is conventional for use in all types of standard sockets, its weight is only 226 grams, excellent for its dimensions of 17 cm long thread to end and a diameter of almost 13 cm. To use it, just simply install it by screwing it into the socket and placing it at the recommended distance from the terrarium.

Pros

  • Efficient concentration of UVB rays that provides greater benefit to the pet when it is under the circumference of the bulb’s action.
  • Extraordinary durability.
  • Energy saver.
  • High wattage makes it ideal for large ponds.

Cons

  • Very sensitive to shocks.


UVA and UVB spectrum heat lamp REPTI ZOO

UVA and UVB spectrum heat lamp REPTI ZOO

REPTI ZOO has experience of over a decade in the manufacture of lighting devices for animals, which has implemented stringent quality controls that have resulted in products of excellent quality.

This model P125160 Super Sun Vapor-Lamp self-ballasted gives you the opportunity to provide your dragon the most efficient benefit compared to natural sunlight. To maintain an enviable state of health, providing UVA and UVB rays they need to stay healthy, also provides them with the levels of heat they require through infrared light.

Through a beam of light with a full spectrum radiates UVA and UVB rays, allowing an efficient penetration of UV rays at a distance of 30 centimeters. Ensuring that pets cover the intake with the right amount of these radiations, also provides them with visible light similar to natural light creating the environment where dragons feel at ease.

This bulb is equipped with thermal protection that prevents it from overheating, physically has acceptable dimensions with a length of 15 cm from the end of the thread to the end of the light emitter, and with a maximum diameter of just over 12 cm. Its thread is standard, which means that it can be used in conventional sockets.

Pros

  • It is an all-in-one device.
  • Automatic shut-off in case of over-temperature.
  • Balance of UV light, visible light, and infrared light.
  • Provides 763uW/cm2 of UVA and 125uW/cm2 of UVB at a distance of 30 cm.
  • Excellent durability.
  • Ease of installation.

Cons

  • Requires the use of large domes.
  • Cannot be used with dimmers or dimmers.
  • Cannot be used with dimmers or rheostats.
  • Overheating of its base when turned on.


What factors to consider when buying a UVB bulb?

There are several things to which you have to pay special attention when you decide to have a pet as docile and nice as a bearded dragon. If you are not an expert in the field, keep in mind that they are animals that require special care and require efficient and timely sources of ultraviolet light, both in UVA and UVB radiation.

This is an essential condition for these pets that are always full of health. To make a correct selection when deciding to look for the Best UVB Bulb For Bearded Dragon, remember these basic aspects:


UVA and UVB Efficiency

Ultraviolet light is electromagnetic radiation that is composed of waves that are shorter than those the light that a human eye can perceive, there are several types among them are the UVA. Composed of waves with more length, between 400 and 315 nanometers, produces energy by photons and is very useful for bearded dragons.

These animals use this type of radiation to satisfy their energy needs and as the basic appetite stimulant. In their natural habitat in the desert zones of the arid climates where they are native, they obtain it directly from solar radiation. Another indispensable type of radiation that these dragons need is UVB.

These are radiations of shorter waves than UVA. They have lengths that can go from 315 to 280 nanometers and are necessary for the good development of sauropods. These also obtain them from sunlight to carry out the processes of synthesizing vitamin D3.

Expert Tip: But when these reptiles are kept in captivity it is necessary to look for effective alternative sources to replace sunlight. These sources must provide sufficient doses of UV radiation to ensure the good health of these reptiles without harming them.


The excess of them can be fatal for this reason it is of great importance the choice of the Best UVB Bulb For Bearded Dragon, this must be at least 10.0 UV in bulbs or fluorescent. The correct specifications of these should work effectively between 30 and 40 cm above the floor of the terrarium or aquarium.

An excellent idea is to seek adequate information on the characteristics required to create a beneficial, pleasant and above all healthy environment for the pet we have.


Time of exposure to light

According to the season of the year will be the hours in which a bearded dragon can be exposed to light. In the summer the most advisable is the exposure to light of this pet in daily periods that oscillate from 12 to 14 hours.

Being this requirement is less in cooler times of the year such as autumn or winter where this exposure should be 10 to 12 hours a day. Knowing how much time your pet requires of light is a process that consists of careful observation of the attitude of the dragon.

When you observe that it tries to move away from the light and seek shelter is time to close the light cycle, when presenting this attitude is taken about 30 minutes before the end of the daily cycle of light.

But the cycle must have a beginning too. So you need to be aware of your dragon’s habits to start the daily activity, so you know at what time the daily cycle starts, so you can determine at what time you will light the bulbs.


Spod lights

Bearded dragons are reptiles, and as such, they are an animal species that does not have the capacity to regulate the temperature in its body. As other species do, that is why they have cold blood, they must necessarily sunbathe to survive, with the solar radiations besides retaking the energies they warm up the body.

A light with spod characteristics, which is a direct focus on the terrarium or the place where the pet lives offer it a pleasant environment to live and develop energetically. The capacity that should be sought in this type of light, is related to the distance at which it will be located from the terrarium, while that distance is greater.

Expert Tip: The capacity of the lamp or the spod light must be greater, it is really important that the heat provided by the bulb that is chosen easily reaches the floor of the terrarium.


Currently, there are models of bulbs that provide the three functions, heating and UVA and UVB radiation, they are known as all in one and can be a smart choice.

Otherwise, the spod light should not be missing in the terrarium, do not forget that when remaining in captivity the pet depends on artificial light to warm up and remain active.


Durability

If you are reading this post that is because you really love your bearded dragon and because surely you are looking for the best way to provide care and protection. Because it will make you happy to see him active, cheerful, and full of life.

Also to finish giving you guidance so that you are well-prepared when you have to choose the bulbs that you will use in the care of your beloved pet.

Let’s talk about this factor that is no less important than the previous ones. We refer to the actual lifetime of the bulb, these usually have nominal lifetime capabilities. According to the manufacturer’s catalogs, and the actual capacity or efficient duration of the bulb.

It may happen that according to the specifications the bulb has a useful life of 18 months. After a year it is still working, but it has lost efficiency in the amount of UV radiation and in the production of adequate heat.

The importance of this factor in the bulbs is paramount they must be changed before the expiration of their real capacity because a bearded dragon can not spend long periods without lighting that provides visibility and heat and without UVA and UVB radiation.

They are an indispensable source for its survival. To avoid running risks against unforeseen damage to the bulbs. the best alternative is to have spare bulbs at home.

Which UVB bulb should I use for a bearded dragon?
Which UVB bulb should I use for a bearded dragon?

Which UVB bulb should I use for a bearded dragon?

The best performing bulbs to choose from are those with all-in-one performance. With one bulb providing heating and visibility, the UBA and UVB radiation are so important to the dragon’s health. Among the best of this type, we prefer the 160 Watts Mercury Vapor Bulb from Mega-Ray for its extraordinary power.

The safety conditions it offers the concentration of its rays. How easy it is to install and the best thing is that you have the three functions in a single bulb? with a great cost-efficiency ratio, which will allow you to always have a spare bulb on hand?

These bulbs offer greater durability which is superior in real capacity to 12 months and proven efficiency in the generation of UV radiation without degrading. While it lasts its real useful life has compatibility with almost all models of sockets.


Conclusion

Choosing the Best UVB Bulb For Bearded Dragon is something that can not be done at random, or without knowledge about what you want to buy. Because it is about the health and welfare of a living being of importance to whoever owns it.

You must exhaust the resources and the appropriate sources that provide the necessary support timely, correct, and efficient that allows you to know the positive aspects of the device you want to buy.

Avatar photo
About Grace Hocker

Hi, my name is Grace and I am a pet lover. Ever since 5 years old, I've owned some sort of pet from Bearded Dragons to Rabbits. I have dedicated my life to helping pets, and am here to help you get the best for your pet!