Question 1

Do reptiles need lights and heaters in their terrariums?

Accepted Answer

Most reptiles need lights and heaters in their terrariums. Reptiles are cold-blooded, so their environmental temperature needs to stay within a specific range. While some reptiles thrive at temperatures in the room temperature range, others will need heaters in all or part of their terrariums. Reptile lighting is also important, as light exposure helps modulate reptiles' circadian rhythms and UVB helps them make vitamin D. Be sure to choose the right reptile lighting and heat sources for the needs of your reptile species.

Question 2

Do reptile heaters and lights use a lot of electricity?

Accepted Answer

Reptile heaters and lights don't use a lot of electricity, but you can find heaters and lights that are more energy efficient if you are concerned. Look for ceramic reptile heaters and fluorescent lighting options, just be careful to choose the right types of energy efficient reptile lighting for your particular species of reptile.

Question 3

Can terrarium lights and heaters be left on all day?

Accepted Answer

Some terrarium lights and heaters can be left on all day, but look up the needs of your specific reptile and guidelines for the types of lighting and heating you are using. Most reptiles do well with 12 hours of daytime light and heating per day, with a light-free nighttime heat source turned on at night. There are programmable reptile light fixtures that turn on and off at preset times to make the job easier for you, and you can also get digital thermostats that control your heating and cooling to maintain an ideal temperature all the time. Most reptile heating and lighting is safe enough to be left on as long as necessary, but check the specific recommendations for the type of reptile lighting and heating you are using.

Question 4

How do I choose the right light and heater for my reptile?

Accepted Answer

Choose the right light and heater for your reptile by first doing research on the particular lighting and heating needs of your reptile species. Find out what types of light your reptile will need and look up the ideal intensity and length of exposure for each. For heating, your reptile may need a basking lamp, a diffuse heat source, a reptile heating pad or a combination of heat sources. You will likely need to choose several lighting and heating sources and set them to go on and off using a programmable timer or thermostat. Chewy makes it easy to find all the right heating and lighting for your reptile. Use our handy product search features on the left of the Reptile Heating and Lighting page to find exactly what you need!

Reptile Heat Lamps, Heaters & Lighting

REPTI ZOO T5 HO UVB Reptile Lighting Combo Kit, 24-watt

Arcadia Reptile LumenIZE T5 to LED Light Fixture Link Cable, 48-in

REPTI ZOO Reptile Humidifier

Zoo Med ReptiRain Automatic Misting Machine

REPTI ZOO Double Hanger Reptile Terrarium Lamp Stand

Reptile Systems Ceramic Reptile Heat Lamp, 150-watt

Arcadia Reptile ShadeDweller-Max 2.5% UVB, 14W, 22"

Category

Reptile Light Bulbs

Reptile Light Fixtures

Reptile Heating Pads & Heaters

Reptile Humidifiers & Climate Control

Reptile Thermometers & Hygrometers

UV Light Type

Product Type

Reptile & Amphibian Type

Lighting Type

Heater Type

Brand

Light Source

Deals & Savings

Price

Customer Rating