verilux bulb Q

[chamitch]

has anyoen used these bulbs or know if tey have been tested for uvb?they are suppost to be good for 3 years. any comments thanks

[Wuntu Menny]

I've used them and like them as full spectrum grow tubes NOT UV producers. Contrary to what many of the dealers would like you to believe, these tubes are intended for horticultural use and do not produce adequate levels of UVB for you herps.

I've yet to see results from an unbiased test, but from the info I collected from industrial sources, the T12 tubes emit in the neighborhood of 5.5% total UV with only a small portion of that being UVB. They are rated by the manufacturer for a three year operational life before significant degradation of output.

The original purpose for these lamps was plant growth. The UVB output is low so the plants don't get burned by it. Unfortunately, there are several individuals distributing these lights right now that are grossly misrepresenting the product. Use them in applications they were designed for and they work great.

WM

[chamitch]

really it says they are used for herps aswell. can i get a source for your info if u get the time.

thanks

[Wuntu Menny]

I'm not denying their uses for herps. As I said I use them myself, they're just not suitable for species dependent upon higher levels of UVB.

As for sources, I can't provide links as all the info I collected was over the phone or in person. Most of my research on this subject was done 3-4 years ago but I did find Rambridge, Westgro, CSA, and a couple of other now defunct companies to be valuable sources of data. You might also try a local hydroponic supplier as they often have their own comparisons documented.

One more thing, if you do decide to use Verilux, check with Lee Valley Tools if you have an outlet near you as they will order these lamps for a lot less than your local petstore. Another good source is alternative energy/ organic lifestyle shops. I used to get mine through a small store of this type for $13 per tube.

If you don't mind making some electrical mods and spending a couple of $$ more, buy T8 tubes and ballasts to convert your fixtures. The T8's produce a higher lumen rating and consume less power than the T12's.

WM