Equipment Review and Discussion :: MVB Bulb vs Incandescent bulbs + Compact Flourescent

[Mr_Great]

Im just wondering what would be the best bang for your buck.

Having 1 MVB Bulb or using a mix of Incandescent and Fluorescent bulbs.

Also does anyone have a link to a reliable online MVB supplier?

Thanks for your help in advance.

[moonlighter]

Try this link

http://www.reptilesupply.com/product.ph ... cts_id=435

Pretty much says the MVB is cheaper in the long run

[octpusgirl8]

MVBs are better in the long run not only because you only need to buy one fixture, but you only need to replace them every year as opposed to every 6 months for a CF. If an MVB is around $50 and a good CF is around $30, thats saving you $10 a year. Not enough to retire on, but still, it's a savings. I also like the clean look of only having one light over my tank, and a lot of turtles really seem to prefer basking under MVBs. I've ordered bulbs from drsfostersmith.com and 4littlepets.com with good results. I've heard a lot of good things about reptilesupply.com too.

[Mr_Great]

Thanks that website was really useful.

One moire question, i got a 30 gallon tank what would be a good wattage for my sset up.

[octpusgirl8]

You might have troublg using an MVB on a 30 gallon tank, they are generally recommended for tanks 50 gallons and over. They have the potential to overheat the water since they're so powerful. I used mine with no trouble on a 40 gal uncovered breeder tank, but it might be pushing it on a 30 gal.