Heat lamp question

[Angelaelebron]

I have the zoo med 150w basking spot light & this is my 4th day with it. I’ve been turning it on for 12 hours/day and when turned all the way up it gets to 114, so I’ve usually been turning it on in the morning and then dialing it down once it gets all the way hot so that it stays at 108. This morning it is only reading at 100 and that is with it turned all the way up. How fast do these bulbs need changed? Is this normal? Or could it be my thermometer? I have the digital with probe and so far it has worked well. I am really hoping I don’t need to replace the bulb every 4 days. What do you guys think?

 

[Angelaelebron]

I moved her basking spot up and got it to 107.8 so she should be good for now. I can’t beileve it’s already letting out less heat. I can not afford to buy that bulb every 4 days at $15/each so if I were to order a 3 pack of this brand, is it a good one? Or does anyone have any recommendations?

 

[Janelle]

How long was it on for your temp readings? Maybe the basking spot wasn't fully warmed up yet or something? I highly recommend getting a temp gun ($15 on amazon). Makes it so quick and easy to take accurate temperatures.

 

[Angelaelebron]

I will put that on my list of next things to order. I’m $500 in right now and trying to get down to one new item a week. The temp reading was after 2 hours, the spot I had it in was usually 110 by then. It is at 105 right now with the basking spot raised about an inch from where it was. She is sitting up on her log looking awake and perky in that spot now so I’m hoping that will keep her happy until the new bulbs come in.

 

[PatsyB]

I use the Zoomed reptile basking bulbs and have never had any problems with them. I buy them and stock up on them whenever I see someone having a clearance sale. You can also get a Par 38 flood light at the hardware store, it's cheaper and might last a little longer.

 

[Angelaelebron]

I use the Zoomed reptile basking bulbs and have never had any problems with them. I buy them and stock up on them whenever I see someone having a clearance sale. You can also get a Par 38 flood light at the hardware store, it's cheaper and might last a little longer.

Yep that’s the one I have. It did finally heat up to 116 where I had to dim it back down to 108 (what I usually do) but it took all day. Going to try the temp gun (ordering Friday) to see if I can get more accurate readings before buying new bulbs.