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When do I have to change my UVB lamp? Why is the UVB value decreasing?
Posted:
November 30, 2022
We are often asked when it is time to change UVB lamps.
Since the UVB radiation decreases with age, even with the most modern lamps, the lamp must be replaced at regular intervals. That costs money and of course you want to avoid pointlessly replacing a lamp that is still functional.
The ideal solution would be a UVB measurement with a solar meter. If the UVB value has reached a minimum, the UVB lighting must be renewed. It is easier to change the terrarium lamp after 3,500 operating hours at the latest.
Our recommendation is to use a rule of thumb. We measured hundreds of UVB lamps over months and determined the UVB reduction. Based on the daily exposure time in hours, the average annual exposure time (in hours) is extrapolated. Depending on the animal species, this irradiation time per day is of course different. Here are 2 examples:
Mediterranean tortoises: 6 hours a day x 365 days = 2190 hours a year. Since there is no light anyway during the hibernation, the UVB lamp still has approx. 50% of the initial value and it can continue to be used.
Bearded dragons: Daily 11 hours x 365 days = 4015 hours per year: Here the limit of approx. 30-40% of the initial value is reached and the lamp has to be changed.
These values were measured with UVB metal halide lamps (distance 20 and 30 cm) and apply to all wattages.
Why do older lamps emit less UVB radiation?
The reduction in UVB radiation from these lamps is technological. All metal halide and compact lamps vaporize a gas mixture in the burner. This causes a film of combustion products to form on the inside of the glass bulb. This acts like a filter and lets less UVB light through.
In short: The UVB lamp should be replaced after a total exposure time of approx. 3500 hours. This does not mean immediate disposal - you can still use a used lamp with a lower UV intensity for young animals or a less sun-loving reptile species.
High-quality UVB lamps are available in this web shop. We therefore recommend the inexpensive 6-packs for all wattages. If you don't need 6 pieces, you can team up with friends and benefit from the low prices together. There are no delivery costs for the 6-pack (free of charge for orders over 100 euros).
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