UVB time frame & Banquet Block

[cknfrmr]

I have a EXO TERRA 160 watt Solar Glo. It is a UVA & UVB MVB. How long do they usually last before they should be replaced? Also has anyone tried the ZOO MED Tortoise Banquet Block? If so what are your thoughts on them. Thanks for your time. Robert

 

[Tnewton]

Id replace it every 6-8 months

I have a EXO TERRA 160 watt Solar Glo. It is a UVA & UVB MVB. How long do they usually last before they should be replaced? Also has anyone tried the ZOO MED Tortoise Banquet Block? If so what are your thoughts on them. Thanks for your time. Robert

 

[Jacob]

I Use The Exo Terra 120 Watt, Change Every 8-9 Months

 

[HLogic]

The self-ballasted MVB bulbs do not usually need to be replaced until they burn out. The UVB intensity decays rapidly during the first 1 - 3 months and then stabilizes. I have a 2+ year old PowerSun 160 that still produces 70 μW/cm2 @ 18" (45.5 cm).

Your best bet is to acquire a meter so you can monitor and replace lamps (incandescent and florescent) based on their UVB output. You will quickly recoup the cost of the meter by eliminating the disposal of serviceable lamps.

 

[dmmj]

The self-ballasted MVB bulbs do not usually need to be replaced until they burn out. The UVB intensity decays rapidly during the first 1 - 3 months and then stabilizes. I have a 2+ year old PowerSun 160 that still produces 70 μW/cm2 @ 18" (45.5 cm).

Your best bet is to acquire a meter so you can monitor and replace lamps (incandescent and florescent) based on their UVB output. You will quickly recoup the cost of the meter by eliminating the disposal of serviceable lamps.

I agree about getting a UV meter, it will let you know when to replace the bulb without guessing therefore saving you money I believe in the long run.

 

[dmarcus]

A few people have talked about the banquet block, not sure if anyone tried it yet...

 

[cknfrmr]

I want to thank everyone for their time and input. Also where would I find a UV meter for sale?