Habitat - Indoor :: Fluorescent tubes or compact fluorescent bulbs?

[iggymax]

Hi there,

I'm a newbie who wants the best for his slider, and was wonder which make better (more efficient, better output, longer lasting, etc.) UVB light sources - UVB fluorescent tubes or UVB compact fluorescent bulbs?

Much thanks,
iggy

[Daniel3507]

a 5.0 compact is what most people use. it makes it much easier to position it over the basking area. they both need to be replaced every 6 months i think

[marisa]

Reptisun tubes have really good reputation, their compact flourescents have caused problems for some. People use ReptiGlo's and like them, but I don't know about their quality. Both tubes and compact flourescents should ideally be replaced every 6 - 8 months because the UVB output diminishes with use over time.

[Chrisbarnett]

I've had both. It's user preference really.

[imderanged]

If you have a 55 gallon or larger, a Mercury Vapor Bulb is another option. Heat and UVB in one bulb! I use it and my turtle loves it.

[LorJ]

It's a pain to have the long tubes over a basking area, but I don't use any of the coil or compact uvb's.