Different ultraviolet sources require different types of fixing accessories, with some coming with their custom-made fixtures.
All gas discharge lamps that use a self-ballasted bulb need a socket and without a ballast controller. However, if not, you need a fixture with an external ballast.
Important things to look at fixtures include:
- Heat resistant fixtures– Ensure your electric cable, sockets, or accessories don’t get burned by heat emitted.
- A good reflector – A 30-degree reflector can help increase the beam to the intended areas.
- Correct ballast controller wattage – In case they need a ballast, especially the fluorescent tube, match it with their bulb wattage.
Best light fixtures
Most of the UVB light sources can fit into the various standard fixtures and sockets. You only need to ensure they can support the bulb’s wattage. Some of the best accessories include the following:
1. Fluker’s 27002 Repta-Clamp Lamp with Switch for Reptiles
If you are looking for a great clamp lamp that has a switch, Fluker’s Repta-Clamp Lamp with an on/off switch is a perfect choice. It comes in three sizes, 5.5”, 8.5” and 10” rated at 75 watts, 150 watts, and 250 watts, respectively. These ratings make it suitable for people with a small to a giant terrarium.
Approved by UL/CUL, it has a ceramic socket rated for ceramic heat emitters and incandescent bulbs. Furthermore, it has a safety clamp and is easy to attach to any terrarium’s rim.
2. Zoo Med Mini Deep Dome Lamp Fixture with 5.5-Inch Dome
The Zoo Med Mini Deep Dome is a 5.5” lamp fixture that features a ceramic socket usable for up to 100-watt bulbs. Its extra-long aluminum polished dome will ensure your bulb doesn’t stick out of it.
This fixture comes with a one-year warranty and is ideal if you want to suspend your heat or light source above your terrarium, i.e., outside and above your terrarium.
3. Zoo Med Combo Deep Dome Dual Lamp Fixture
Like the Repti Zoo above, this is a combo fixture that will allow you to combine daytime heating lamps, UVB lamps, and nighttime heating lamps.
The dual ceramic sockets can withstand a load of 160 watts independently, and a combined maximum capacity of 300 wats and comes with a one-year warranty.
Finally, its deep dome will prevent bulbs from sticking out, and the polished aluminum inner surface helps in ensuring superior heat and light outputs.
4. Zilla Premium Reflector Domes
This Zilla brand is an incandescent fixture meant for incandescent bulbs for lighting or heating your terrarium. It has a ceramic socket designed to withstand constant heat from an up to the 150-watt bulb.
You have an option of going for the 5.5” that fits a 60-watt bulb or the 8.5” ideal for ceramic heating bulbs, incandescent or compact fluorescent bulbs.
Finally, its dome reflector is black on the outside, and its inner white surface is powder-coated, making it lustrous and long-lasting.
5. Hoke Flexible Clamp Lamp Fixture for Reptiles
This hoke flexible clamp lamp fixture stand is ideal for your UV lamp, infrared emitter, heater, or light bulb. It has a hole for handing it, or you can clip it and has an inbuilt safe US-made fuse.
The Hoke flexible clamp lamp fixture can be rotated 360 degrees in any direction, has a corrosion-resistant steel clamp, and the inner reflecting surface is white to enhance its lighting or heating efficiency.
Finally, this Hoke fixture has a voltage of 100-120V, a maximum load of 120W, and you can use it with your halogen, LED, UVB, incandescent, fluorescent bulbs, or ceramic heaters.
6. REPTI ZOO Dual Reptile UVB Light Fixture Dome with Dual Lamp Cap
Instead of buying two separate fixtures for heating and lighting, go for this combo REPTI ZOO dual reptile bulb fixture. It has two bulb sockets, each with each having a 150W maximum load usable with infrared spot lambs, basking spot lamps, UVA and UVB bulbs, reptile ceramic lamps, and so on. However, for the dual dome, use only one heat emitter.
Furthermore, it features two independent switch power lines for separate control, and it is made from a heat resistant ceramic socket and black metal to ensure it serves you for a long time.
Finally, it features a heavy-duty hook for handing it and ventilating holes on the top to enhance heat dissipation.