Basking light

[KyleFitzz]

So I have a 18x18x36 repti breeze tank, what basking light should I get and should I just purchase a UVB/UVA and basking bulb in one?! And what wattage would you guys recommend

 

[carol5208]

we do not know the age or species of chameleon you have. That would help!!! I am not a fan of the combo lights. Also, I would remove the substrate. That poses a choking or impaction hazard for your chameleon if injested along with a place for mold and bacteria to grow when it gets wet over time.

 

[Seiryu]

The UVA/UVB in 1 bulbs like PowerSun (Mercury vapors) etc can't be sitting on any kind of mesh, it'll burn right through it.

Mercury vapors are a bit overkill for chameleons, although perfect for bearded dragons and desert species.

For a basking light, the wattage totally depends on your specific setup. How close he can get to it, your ambient temperatures etc. You may have to try a few wattages to find the right one. I go with regular house bulbs from home depot (The clear ones, not the white, just a preference).

For UVB I would recommend a 5.0 ReptiSun tube (comes in 12", 18" or 24")

 

[KyleFitzz]

I have a Jackson's chameleon that I got about 1 week ago he's so awesome! And I'm def removing that substrate soon! I get a live ficus in the mail very soon. Also why recommend the tube instead of a compact bulb? And lastly what's the difference between house bulbs and the reptile ones at petsmart

 

[haksui]

Same questions. Here are some specifics. I have a 24(h)x24(D)x18(w). I am planning to put a few perches at least 5" from the top for basking. The panther chameleon will be about 3-4 months old. What wattage (at least) clear house light bulb would I need? I would like to start off low then work my way up to increase the temps if I need to.

 

[deadhd5]

I have a Jackson's chameleon that I got about 1 week ago he's so awesome! And I'm def removing that substrate soon! I get a live ficus in the mail very soon. Also why recommend the tube instead of a compact bulb? And lastly what's the difference between house bulbs and the reptile ones at petsmart

The tube is best because it distributes the UVB over a much wider area, likely resulting in better exposure for your chameleon. I usually set up my tube UVB bulb along the length of a popular sitting branch, and my chams can get UVB where ever they sit on that branch or vine.