cyberlocc
Chameleon Enthusiast
Okay folks, we had a PSA posted by GK (thanks Goodkarma) about a Sunblaster issue, that was seeming to pop up. Where the reflector was not working, it was brought up in the Reptile Lighting Group.
We have since then figured out what is causing the issue and how to fix it. We have also found that not only Sunblaster is effected. All fixtures made by (Shenzhen Sunlight Lighting co) seem to have the possibility of issue.
A short list of Current on the Market Fixtures, that use this brand/company to produce.
The Reflector works great, when it is in the correct orientation, What is seemingly happening, some how in the factory these reflectors are getting slid in backwards. Which is exposing the wrong side, of the reflector to the light, the plastic side. The Plastic Side, absorbs the UVB light, instead of reflecting it, which means you are not getting proper reflection. So far, we have observed this mistake with an Arcadia Pro T5, a Sunblaster, and a Jumpstart, however the others still have the possibility as well.
There is a Testing Methodology, the correct side showing, has a lacquer like coating apparent. Its more a of a "Matte" finish, is mottled, an orange peel like paint effect. The reflection is also not perfect like a mirror due to this "Orange Peel" more akin to dented metal. If your reflector appears to be very shiny, and not mottled (Pics below) then you need to take apart the reflector and flip the material.
I made a quick reference image, so you guys can share this wherever you can! Facebook Groups, other Reptile forums, whatever wherever. This is important for our fellow Herpers chameleons and other animals Alike to know!
The only complete way to avoid this issue, is to not buy these fixtures.
Reptisun fixtures while costing quite a bit more, have an Aluminum PVD reflector so this issue cannot happen with them.
The above fixtures still work great and are well priced. Just know about the issue.
We have since then figured out what is causing the issue and how to fix it. We have also found that not only Sunblaster is effected. All fixtures made by (Shenzhen Sunlight Lighting co) seem to have the possibility of issue.
A short list of Current on the Market Fixtures, that use this brand/company to produce.
- Arcadia Pro T5
- Biodude T5HO
- Carolina Custom Cages T5HO
- Hydrofarm "Jumpstart"
- Sunblaster T5HO Nanotech
- Vivarium Electronics T5
The Reflector works great, when it is in the correct orientation, What is seemingly happening, some how in the factory these reflectors are getting slid in backwards. Which is exposing the wrong side, of the reflector to the light, the plastic side. The Plastic Side, absorbs the UVB light, instead of reflecting it, which means you are not getting proper reflection. So far, we have observed this mistake with an Arcadia Pro T5, a Sunblaster, and a Jumpstart, however the others still have the possibility as well.
There is a Testing Methodology, the correct side showing, has a lacquer like coating apparent. Its more a of a "Matte" finish, is mottled, an orange peel like paint effect. The reflection is also not perfect like a mirror due to this "Orange Peel" more akin to dented metal. If your reflector appears to be very shiny, and not mottled (Pics below) then you need to take apart the reflector and flip the material.
I made a quick reference image, so you guys can share this wherever you can! Facebook Groups, other Reptile forums, whatever wherever. This is important for our fellow Herpers chameleons and other animals Alike to know!
The only complete way to avoid this issue, is to not buy these fixtures.
Reptisun fixtures while costing quite a bit more, have an Aluminum PVD reflector so this issue cannot happen with them.
The above fixtures still work great and are well priced. Just know about the issue.
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