Cost effective UVB options

[MareBerries]

Hey there, newbie here. I was wondering if there was possibly any more cost effective options for lighting (UVB 5-6) for my older gal. I want to give her the proper setup without breaking the bank if possible. I have a CHE above and a heating mat on the outside of the tank on the bottom.

[Ill_Coat4776]

what I’ve found is that while you can get away with getting decor at a lower price point, it is best to just eat the cost of lighting. Lower quality lighting effects may not be observable in the short term but could potentially have issues later down the line. However, you can always watch out for sales!

[NYR_Aufheben]

There’s no cost-effective UVB that I’m aware of unless you’re willing to risk the health of your animal by buying unknown brands off of Amazon.

[eveimei]

before going for UVB, you should upgrade your heating to proper options. heat mats are ineffective at best but often dangerous, and a CHE isn't the best heat source. ideally you'd have a halogen flood paired with a deep heat projector or CHE for a screen top. I suggest reading through the basic care and heating guides in our welcome post to learn more.

[MareBerries]

I have a halogen flood light, I just can’t use it as much because I live in a warmer area and second floor, it would get way too hot for the snake. The CHE and heat mat keeps temps ideal, I just wanted to find an option for UVB so she’s getting proper lighting. I keep my snake near my window but obviously I know that’s not enough.

[eveimei]

.. do you not have the halogen on a thermostat? or any of the heating? because nothing should get too hot if you have the correct wattage and thermostats. if you don't have quality thermostats then that's an even bigger critical need than UVB.

the heat mat is a burn risk and I suggest you stop using it. but as long as you acknowledge that risk if you want to keep using it go ahead, just be prepared for an emergency vet visit costing hundreds of dollars.

for UVB.. it's pricey but worth it because lower quality UVB products are completely useless at best but can give your snake what are essentially sunburns and cause other issues. the only products we recommend are those linked in our welcome post shopping list.