Many reptiles and amphibians thrive with UVB light, but safely incorporating it into an enclosure can be challenging, especially for beginners or those setting up larger or taller enclosures.
So, what is UVB and how does it relate to solar meters?
A solar meter measures the output of UVB bulbs.
UVB is a type of light that helps animals metabolize calcium. In simple terms, we get calcium from food, and UVB from sunlight interacts with a compound in our skin called 7-DHC. This interaction produces Vitamin D3, which enables our bodies to process and use the calcium we consume.
Our pet reptiles mostly do not have access to the sun, so we provide lighting that mimicks the output they would thrive off of in the wild through specialist bulbs.
For most keepers, following a guide that suggests a bulb based off of mesh type* and distance from the basking platform would suffice to keep their reptile happy and healthy.
For Leopard Geckos, this guide covers the majority of enclosure mesh types (Credit: Leopard Gecko Discord)
The Problem
Most UVB bulbs are recommended for use only 6 to 12 months, as their UVB output deteriorates over time. Without sufficient UVB, reptiles can't metabolize calcium, leading to serious health issues. For those with one or two reptiles, spending £50 a year on new bulbs may not be a big deal, but it becomes expensive if you have multiple enclosures. As of August 2024, I have 11 Leopard Geckos and one Uromastyx, costing me £163 annually just to replace their bulbs.
While UVB bulbs can often last beyond 12 months, relying on them without knowing their exact output is risky. However, with a solar meter, you can measure the bulb's output, potentially extending its lifespan by years.
In addition to saving money on bulb replacements, a solar meter can be invaluable for enclosures where estimating the UVI is difficult. For these situations, a solar meter provides peace of mind by offering precise measurements.
So, should I buy a Solar Meter?
While solar meters are excellent tools, they are quite expensive.
The only reliable options on the market, the Solar Meter 6.5 and 6.5r, cost around £250 (or about $200 in the U.S.).
For most keepers, especially those with well-documented species like Leopard Geckos and Bearded Dragons, using reference charts will be sufficient. However, if you're looking to experiment with lighting, manage a larger enclosure, or save money on bulb replacements over time, a solar meter could be a worthwhile investment.
Additionally, some reptile pet shops offer bulb testing services using their own solar meters, which can be a cost-effective alternative.
Pros:
Likely to eventually pay for itself due to extended life of UVB bulbs
Gives exact numbers on UVI, particularly helpful in more unusual enclosure designs
Ensures your bulbs are not defective
Cons:
Expensive!
*different types of mesh will block different percentages of UVB, therefore affecting output.
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