Hi. I’m afraid the correct uvb is something that really should never wait. The compact bulbs have no output beyond just a few inches and then the level is awful - goes from higher than anywhere on earth to nothing within an inch or so. This is a great one to get (you want 6% strength)and a great vendor too. Then your basking area needs to be about 8-9” below it for ideal uvb levels. We want the bulk of our chameleon’s vitamin D3 needs to come from their uvb and then our use of supplemental is basically just insurance that they are getting enough. This is an old video, but explains the differences in uvb very well. Also, I will caution against buying cheaper knock off brands to try and save a few bucks. I only tested one (if only I were richer) but I carefully chose the better known brand which is new to the USA, but is the quality brand in its home country (ReptiZoo). The output of a brand new uvb bulb, equivalent to a 5.0 was dismal. I have had Arcadia uvb bulbs that have been in use for over a year with better output. It’s great to save where we can, but this is not the place to be thrifty. Arcadia Pro T5 with a 6% bulb is my favorite because I can daily’s chain lights together. The other reliable brand is ReptiSun T5HO with a 5.0 bulb. Generally the first uvb bulb comes with the fixture.
what do you use to test the bulbs?
A solarmeter 6.5 is best to test output. They are a bit pricey. I have a lot of reptiles, so it basically pays for itself in that I only replace my uvb bulbs when needed instead of on a schedule.
Here it is.
