Mercury Vapor Bulbs

[Uffern]

Pros? Cons? Price? I want to know everything about them because I know almost nothing about them. What are the risks? What is the UV output? Possible problems? You get the point.

[Tim Winegard]

The onyl problem I have heard about them is the fact that if the outer coating of the bulb is scratched the mercury will leak and that obviously isnt a good thing for your herp

[Jaylyn]

Uffern,

I've been using them on my dragons and redfoot torts for the past 7 months. I've always had them on the dragons - but when I switched the torts I found increased activity, appetite and colour.

I think you'd pay around $50US - ~$100CND. If you are from Canada the warranty is void here. I've had 1 out of 3 go in under 3 months.

I believe the UV output is comparable to noon day sun in the shade. The bulb MUST be at least 12" from the dragons. I have to supplement with extra heat to get the temps high enough for the dragons - so I don't think they make sense financially. I'm considering switching to the ESU coil UV bulbs. They are supposed to be good for 2 years.

Possible problems would be leakage and eye problems. I've read blurbs about UVC - but if the bulbs produce them they rays are short enough not to be a danger if the bulb is a safe distance from the animal. Melissa Kaplan has lots of cons on her site - just read critically. :)

Jaylyn