5 Best Basking Bulbs for Bearded Dragons

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Buyer’s Guide

What to Look for in a Basking Bulb

Bearded dragons are a type of lizard that originates from Australia. They grow to be about two feet long and live for around ten to fifteen years in captivity. In the wild, they bask in the sun to regulate their body temperature but in captivity, they rely on their owner to provide them with the appropriate basking environment.

Basking bulbs are one of the most important pieces of equipment for a bearded dragon owner.

The heat emitted by the basking bulb helps bearded dragons regulate their body temperature.

The light emitted by the basking bulb simulates the sunlight your bearded dragon needs to produce vitamin D. This is important for helping your bearded dragon absorb calcium.

When choosing a basking bulb for your bearded dragon, there are three things you should look for:

• It should emit enough heat to raise the temperature of your bearded dragon’s basking spot to around 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
• The basking bulb should emit enough light to simulate the sunlight your bearded dragon needs to produce vitamin D.
• It should have a wide range so that it can heat a large area. This is important because bearded dragons like to move around and bask in different areas. [6]

Infrared Lights

Just like humans, bearded dragons love basking in the sun. In the wild, they’ll often bask on rocks or branches to absorb as much heat and UVB rays as possible. But in captivity, we need to provide them with a basking bulb that will give them the heat and light they need.

There are two main types of basking bulbs: incandescent and fluorescent. 

• Incandescent bulbs are cheap and easy to find, but they don’t last very long and they don’t produce much UVB radiation.
• Fluorescent bulbs, on the other hand, last much longer and produce more UVB radiation. However, they’re more expensive and can be harder to find.

For bearded dragons, we recommend using a fluorescent basking bulb. These bulbs will last longer and provide your beardie with the UVB rays they need to stay healthy. We also recommend using a reptile vitamin supplement to ensure your beardie is getting all the nutrients they need.

One important thing to remember when choosing a basking bulb is that not all of them emit UVB rays.

UVA and UVB Light

Bearded dragons are popular pets because of their docile nature and relatively easy care requirements. One important aspect of caring for a bearded dragon is providing them with the proper lighting. This is necessary because bearded dragons rely on ultraviolet light (UV light) for several important bodily functions.

UV light is divided into two categories, UVA and UVB.

UVA light is not as important for bearded dragons as UVB light, but it is still beneficial. UVA light helps bearded dragons see better and also makes them feel more comfortable. UVB light, on the other hand, is essential for bearded dragons. UVB light helps them produce vitamin D, which is necessary for calcium absorption. Without enough UVB light, bearded dragons can develop a condition known as metabolic bone disease, which can be fatal.

The best way to provide your bearded dragon with the proper lighting is to use a combination of both artificial UVA/UVB bulbs and natural sunlight.

Artificial bulbs should be replaced every six months to ensure that your bearded dragon is getting the proper amount of UV light. When using natural sunlight, make sure that your dragon has access to a spot where it can bask in direct sunlight for several hours each day.

If you provide your bearded dragon with the proper lighting, you will help them stay healthy and happy for many years to come.

Lifespan

Bearded dragons typically live between eight and 12 years, although some have been known to live up to 20 years. A healthy diet and proper care are the best ways to ensure a long life for your dragon.

Basking is an important part of a bearded dragon’s daily routine. They need a warm basking spot to digest their food properly and to stay healthy.

There are a few different types of basking bulbs available, and each has its own benefits. Here is a comprehensive guide to the best basking bulbs for bearded dragons, as well as some tips on how to choose the right one for your pet.

• Fluorescent bulbs emit both heat and light, and are a good option for basking. They come in a variety of sizes and wattages, so you can find one that is just right for your dragon.
• Incandescent bulbs give off more heat than light, making them ideal for basking. They are available in a variety of wattages, so you can find one that is just right for your dragon.
• Ceramic bulbs emit Infrared light, which is beneficial for a bearded dragon’s health. They come in a variety of sizes and wattages, so you can find one that is just right for your dragon.
• Halogen bulbs emit both heat and light, and are a good option for basking. They come in a variety of sizes and wattages, so you can find one that is just right for your dragon.

When choosing a basking bulb, it is important to consider the size of your dragon’s enclosure. A larger enclosure will need a higher wattage bulb, while a smaller enclosure can get by with a lower wattage bulb. It is also important to consider the height of your dragon’s basking spot. A taller basking spot will need a higher wattage bulb than a shorter one.

It is also important to remember that basking bulbs should be used with a thermostat to prevent your dragon from getting too hot.

Price

The price of a basking bulb will vary depending on the brand, wattage, and type. You can find decent quality bulbs for around $15. However, if you want a top-of-the-line product, you can expect to pay upwards of $30.

Wattage will also affect the price of the bulb. Higher wattage bulbs will typically be more expensive than lower wattage bulbs. This is because they produce more heat and light, which means they are more energy-efficient.

Type is another factor that can affect the price of a basking bulb. Incandescent bulbs are the most affordable option, followed by halogen bulbs. LED bulbs are the most expensive type of basking bulb, but they are also the most energy-efficient.

Finally, the brand of the basking bulb can also affect the price. Some brands are more expensive than others, but this doesn’t necessarily mean that they are better quality. It is important to do your research and read reviews before purchasing a basking bulb.

In general, you can expect to pay anywhere from $15 to $30 for a decent quality basking bulb. Higher wattage bulbs and LED bulbs will be on the higher end of this price range, while lower wattage bulbs and incandescent bulbs will be on the lower end.

Are Basking Bulbs Important For Bearded Dragons?

Basking bulbs are important for bearded dragons because they provide a heat source that simulates the warm, sunny conditions of their natural habitat. Without a basking bulb, your bearded dragon will be unable to thermoregulate and could become seriously ill.

There are two main types of basking bulbs: incandescent and ceramic.

Incandescent bulbs are less expensive but don’t last as long as ceramic bulbs.
Ceramic bulbs are more expensive but they last longer and provide a more consistent heat source.

Bulbs come in different wattages, so it’s important to choose one that is appropriate for the size of your tank, a basking bulb with a wide range, so that your bearded dragon can move away from the heat if they need to.

Basking bulbs are an essential part of providing proper care for your bearded dragon. By choosing the right basking bulb, you can provide your bearded dragon with the heat they need to stay healthy and happy. [7]

What Wattage Basking Bulb Will I Need?

The wattage you’ll need for your basking bulb will depend on the size of your enclosure.

To find the right wattage for your enclosure, you’ll need to know the size of your tank in square feet. Once you have that number, multiply it by 15. That’s the minimum wattage you’ll need for your basking bulb.

For example, let’s say you have a 20-gallon tank that’s two feet long and one foot wide. That’s two square feet. So you’ll need a basking bulb that’s at least 30 watts.

So you’ll need a basking bulb that’s at least 480 watts.

Keep in mind that the larger the enclosure, the more watts you’ll need. But also keep in mind that basking bulbs with higher wattages will produce more heat. So if you have a small enclosure, you might want to go with a lower wattage bulb so you don’t overheat your pet. [7]

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FAQ

What Is the Best Heat Lamp Bulb for a Bearded Dragon?

The Zoo Med Repti Basking Spot Lamp is our top pick for the best heat lamp bulb for bearded dragons. It provides strong, steady heat and light, and it’s available in a variety of wattages to suit your needs.

If you’re looking for a more natural-looking heat lamp, the Exo Terra Sun Glo is a good choice. It emits a bright, white light that simulates the sun, and it doesn’t get as hot as other heat lamps.

What Watt Basking Bulb Does a Bearded Dragon Need?

Bearded dragons are diurnal lizards, meaning they are most active during the day. In the wild, they bask in the sun to regulate their body temperature. In captivity, we recreate this basking spot using a basking bulb. But what wattage basking bulb do bearded dragons need?

For baby and juvenile bearded dragons, a 50-watt basking bulb is sufficient. For adult bearded dragons, a 75 to 100-watt basking bulb is ideal. If you live in a warm climate or your home is already quite warm, you can get away with using a lower wattage basking bulb.

To give your bearded dragon the best chance to thrive, it is important to provide them with the proper basking temperature. The basking spot should be between 95-110 degrees Fahrenheit for baby and juvenile bearded dragons and 85-95 degrees Fahrenheit for adult bearded dragons.

You can use a digital thermometer with a probe to measure the temperature of the basking spot. If you do not have a digital thermometer, you can use an infrared temperature gun. These are readily available online and at most hardware stores.

You may need to experiment with different basking bulbs to find the one that provides the best temperature for your bearded dragon. If the basking spot is too hot or too cold, it can be harmful to your bearded dragon.

Is a 150 Watt Basking Bulb a Bearded Dragon?

Yes. Bearded dragons need a basking temperature of around 110 degrees Fahrenheit, so they require a basking bulb that emits enough heat to raise the temperature of their enclosure to that level.

A 150 watt basking bulb is powerful enough to do this, and it will also provide your bearded dragon with the UVB rays it needs to stay healthy.

Are Red Basking Lights Good for Bearded Dragons?

Yes, red basking lights are actually very good for bearded dragons! Not only do they provide the necessary heat for your beard to thermoregulate, but the red light also has a calming effect on them.

This is why many people choose to use red basking bulbs when they first bring their beardie home – to help them feel more comfortable in their new environment.

Can I Use a Regular Bulb for a Basking Light for a Bearded Dragon?

No, you cannot. Regular bulbs do not emit the correct wavelengths of light that bearded dragons need to thrive. Additionally, regular bulbs tend to produce too much heat, which can be harmful to your bearded dragon.

Instead, you should use a basking bulb designed specifically for bearded dragons. These bulbs emit the correct wavelengths of light and do not produce too much heat.

There are two types of basking bulbs for bearded dragons: incandescent and fluorescent. Incandescent bulbs are the most popular type of basking bulb, as they produce more heat than fluorescent bulbs. However, fluorescent bulbs last longer and use less energy than incandescent bulbs.

If you decide to use an incandescent basking bulb, be sure to get one that is specifically designed for reptiles. These bulbs have a higher wattage than regular incandescent bulbs and produce more heat.

What is the Difference Between a Heat Lamp And a Basking Lamp?

A heat lamp is a type of infra-red bulb that emits heat, but no light. A basking lamp is a combination of an incandescent light bulb and a reflector, which makes it emit more light and heat in one direction than an ordinary light bulb.

Most basking lamps also have a higher wattage than heat lamps. This is because they need to produce more light, as well as heat. The extra light is necessary for your bearded dragon to see properly and bask in the UV rays it needs for good health.

The increased wattage also means that basking lamps will not last as long as heat lamps. They will need to be replaced more often, usually every six months to a year.

What Can I Use Instead of a Basking Bulb?

There are a few things you can use as an alternative to basking bulbs.

• One option is to use a ceramic heat emitter. These emitters produce infrared radiation which helps to keep your bearded dragon warm without producing light. This makes them ideal for nighttime use.
• Another option is to use a basking spot lamp. These lamps produce heat without light, making them ideal for use at night.
• Finally, you can also use a basking rock. These rocks are heated and then placed in the bearded dragon’s enclosure. The heat from the rock will help to keep your bearded dragon warm.

No matter which option you choose, it is important to make sure that the temperature of the enclosure is monitored closely. Bearded dragons are sensitive to changes in temperature and can easily become stressed if the environment is too hot or too cold.

What is the Best Heat Source For a Bearded Dragon?

There are a few options when it comes to heating your bearded dragon’s enclosure. The most common and recommended heat source is an incandescent basking bulb. These bulbs produce both light and heat, which is ideal for bearded dragons since they need both UVB light and high temperatures to thrive.

There are also ceramic heat emitters, which are a good option if you already have a UVB light setup. Ceramic heat emitters produce heat but no light, so they can be used in addition to a UVB light.

Finally, there are infrared heat lamps. Infrared heat lamps only produce heat, not light, so they should not be used as the sole heat source for your bearded dragon. However, they can be used in addition to a basking bulb or ceramic heat emitter to provide even more heat.

What Time Should I Turn My Bearded Dragons Light Off at Night?

Most experts recommend turning your bearded dragon’s light off at night. This is because they are nocturnal animals and need a period of darkness to sleep.

However, some people like to leave a low-wattage bulb on so their beardie has a warm spot to bask in if it wakes up during the night. If you decide to leave a light on, make sure it’s not too bright and that it won’t disturb your dragon’s sleep.

Most basking bulbs emit UVB rays, which are essential for your bearded dragon’s health. However, too much UVB can be harmful, so it’s important to find a bulb that emits the right amount. We’ll talk more about this later.

Bearded dragons need a warm basking spot to regulate their body temperature. A basking bulb provides this heat, but it’s important to choose the right one.

Is 120 Too Hot for a Bearded Dragon?

No, 120 degrees is not too hot for bearded dragons. In fact, basking temperatures between 95 and 115 degrees are ideal for bearded dragons. Hotter temperatures can be used for basking if your dragon is having trouble shedding its skin.

To maintain the proper basking temperature, you’ll need to use a basking bulb. There are a variety of basking bulbs available, so it’s important to choose the right one for your needs.

How Can I Tell If My Bearded Dragon is Cold?

There are a few signs that you can look for to determine if your bearded dragon is cold. These include:

• Lack of energy or lethargy
• Refusal to eat
• Unwillingness to move
• Basking in an unusual position or for an extended period of time

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to take action immediately to warm your bearded dragon up. The best way to do this is to provide a basking bulb.

Basking bulbs are specially designed heat lamps that provide infrared heat. This type of heat is readily absorbed by the body and helps to increase the internal temperature.

Do I Turn Off the Basking Light at Night?

No, you do not need to turn off your basking light at night. In fact, it is recommended that you leave it on so that your dragon can regulate its body temperature. If you turn off the basking light at night, your dragon may become too cold and could develop health problems.

If you are using a ceramic heat emitter, you will need to turn it off at night because they do not emit light.

Is a Basking Bulb the Same as a UVB Bulb?

No, basking bulbs and UVB bulbs are not the same. Basking bulbs provide heat, while UVB bulbs emit ultraviolet light. Both types of bulbs are necessary for a bearded dragon’s habitat.

Basking bulbs can be either incandescent or halogen. Incandescent basking bulbs are less expensive but don’t last as long as halogen bulbs. Halogen bulbs cost more but last longer, so they’re a better investment in the long run.

UVB bulbs come in two different types: compact and coil. Compact UVB bulbs are less expensive but don’t last as long as coil bulbs. Coil bulbs cost more but last longer, so they’re a better investment in the long run.

Both compact and coil UVB bulbs emit ultraviolet light, but the wavelength of light emitted by compact bulbs is shorter than the wavelength of light emitted by coil bulbs. The shorter wavelength of light emitted by compact bulbs is more harmful to human skin than the longer wavelength of light emitted by coil bulbs.

What Heat and Basking Lamp Should I Use for My Bearded Dragon?

There are a variety of basking lamps and heat sources available on the market, but not all of them are created equal. In this guide, we’ll go over some of the best basking bulbs for bearded dragons, as well as what to look for when choosing a basking bulb.

Basking bulbs come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and wattages, so it’s important to choose the right one for your bearded dragon’s needs. The size of your basking bulb should be proportional to the size of your bearded dragon’s enclosure – a bulb that is too small will not provide enough heat, while a bulb that is too large can be dangerous.

As a general rule of thumb, you should use a basking bulb with a wattage of 30-50 watts for a 20-gallon enclosure, 50-75 watts for a 40-gallon enclosure, and 75-100 watts for a 60-gallon enclosure.

Useful Video: How To Choose The Right Light Bulbs For Your Bearded Dragons

Conclusion

If you have a Bearded Dragon, then you know how important it is to provide them with the right basking bulb. In this comprehensive guide, we’ve reviewed some of the best basking bulbs on the market and answered some common questions about expanded Best Basking Bulbs for Bearded Dragons.

With our helpful tips and product reviews, you’ll be able to find the perfect basking bulb for your Bearded Dragon. Thanks for reading!

Do you have a Bearded Dragon? What kind of basking bulb do you use? Let us know in the comments below!

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References:

1. https://www.amazon.com/Simple-Deluxe-Infrared-Amphibian-Incubating/dp/B07KLZCDQH
2. https://www.amazon.com/Flukers-Basking-Spotlight-Bulbs-Reptiles/dp/B0006L2UC4
3. https://www.amazon.com/Flukers-Basking-Spotlight-Bulbs-Reptiles/dp/B0006L2UBU
4. https://www.amazon.com/Zoo-Med-26345-Bearded-Dragon/dp/B00E1TAYMK
5. https://www.amazon.com/Zoo-Med-Reptile-Basking-Watts/dp/B00061V55C
6. https://petkeen.com/best-basking-light-bulb-for-bearded-dragons/
7. https://totalbeardeddragon.com/basking-bulbs-bearded-dragons/
8. https://www.websaq.com/best-basking-light-for-bearded-dragon/