Clear Incandescent Bulb as Heat Lamp???

Jeff Kennedy · July 22nd, 2010

So over the course of the next couple of weeks I will be setting up many individual enclosures, all involving there own heat source. Obviously finances comes into play and I would like to save money but at the same time get the optimum quality for my animals. With that said I was wondering if anyone had ever used a regular, clear 75 watt bulb as a heat source. These can be purchased alot cheaper then the 75 watt bulbs you'd buy at a pet store. Will they emit the same amount of heat? Also I was wondering about the new energy efficient bulbs? With 20+ enclosures going 12 hours a day, it would be nice if I could opt for these, save some on my monthly electric bill, help the environment and only have to replace them every 4 years. That is if these type of bulbs emit heat. Thanks for your input!

Kurt · July 22nd, 2010

I have used regular incandescent bulbs as a heat source in the past. No problem. A 75 watt bulb produces a lot of heat. What size tank are you plan on using with this bulb?

Paul Rust · July 22nd, 2010

It depends on the species you are going to keep in each individual enclosure. Many may not need heat at all and the ones that do may not need much.

Jeff Kennedy · July 22nd, 2010

The bulbs will be used on 10 gal. enclosures that will house baby Pyxies. I have a 75 watt in my other bullfrog enclosure and he stays parked under it all day long. Thanks for the input guys!