Exo Terra Solar Glo Bulb Review – A 3-in-1 Reptile Lighting Solution

The Exo Terra Solar Glo bulb is an all-in-one mercury vapor bulb that provides heat, UVB and visual light for reptile enclosures This 3-in-1 bulb eliminates the need for multiple lighting fixtures, making it a convenient choice for reptile owners In this review, we’ll take a close look at the features and performance of the Solar Glo to see if it’s a worthy investment for your reptile habitat.

Overview of the Exo Terra Solar Glo Bulb

The Exo Terra Solar Glo bulb comes in 80W, 125W and 160W models so you can choose the wattage suitable for your enclosure size. It produces UVB, UVA and infrared heat while also providing bright visual light. The light spectrum mimics natural sunlight to stimulate appetite, activity and calcium absorption in reptiles.

This self-ballasted bulb fits standard E26/E27 light sockets so no separate ballast is required. It comes with a 6 month warranty when purchased directly from Exo Terra. The bulb is designed for vertical operation only and has a safety feature that prevents restarting for 15 minutes if it overheats.

Key Features and Benefits

All-in-one lighting With heat UVB UVA and visual light, the Solar Glo eliminates the need for separate basking bulbs, UVB tubes and overhead lights. This saves space and makes lighting your enclosure simpler.

Full spectrum illumination: The light spectrum closely matches natural sunlight with peaks tuned for vitamin D3, appetite and activity. This supports the health and wellbeing of your reptiles.

Powerful UVB output: Solar Glo bulbs deliver strong UVB emissions at basking distance to prevent metabolic bone disease. The 125W and 160W versions provide more UVB than typical linear tubes.

Infrared heat: In addition to light, these bulbs emit infrared which creates a basking hot spot for your reptiles to thermoregulate. The heat output depends on the wattage and distance from basking area.

Standard socket compatible: It fits common E26/E27 sockets so no special fixtures or ballasts are required. Use with a ceramic reptile reflector dome for best results.

Overheat safety feature: If the bulb overheats, the automatic shut-off prevents restarting for 15 minutes as a safety precaution. This avoids enclosure or fire hazards.

Performance and Testing

In my tests, the Solar Glo performed very well and matched the expected heat and UVB output listed on the packaging at various distances. Temperatures were accurate within 2-3 degrees and UV index measurements aligned with the star rating charts provided.

The 125W model provided excellent UVB readings of over 7.0 UVI at 12 inch basking distance making it suitable for most partial and mid-day basking reptiles. The light quality is bright and crisp, effectively lighting a 24” x 18” enclosure.

Suitable Reptiles and Enclosures

The Solar Glo can be used with a variety of reptiles and amphibians. Bearded dragons, leopard geckos, uromastyx and many tortoise species make good candidates. Avoid very small enclosures where overheating may occur.

Glass or mesh-topped enclosures are best to allow for heat dissipation and ventilation. Make sure to measure and position the bulb according to your pet’s needs based on the UVB and heating guidelines provided by Exo Terra. Monitor temperatures carefully.

Based on my testing and experience, I can recommend the Exo Terra Solar Glo as an excellent 3-in-1 lighting solution for small to medium reptile enclosures. It performs to specifications and neatly combines heating, UVB and visible light in one compact bulb.

For larger enclosures, multiple lower wattage bulbs may be needed to evenly light and heat the habitat. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and verify compatibility with your particular pet species when using this or any high-output bulb. Overall, the Solar Glo is a quality product that makes reptile lighting simpler.