Repti Zoo Deep Dome Lamp Fixture Review

The Repti Zoo deep dome lamp fixture is a popular lighting option for reptile and amphibian enclosures. With its sleek, modern design and ability to provide focused heat and light, it offers pet owners an efficient way to create an ideal habitat. In this review, we’ll take an in-depth look at the features, usage, and value of the Repti Zoo deep dome fixture to help you determine if it’s the right choice for your reptile or amphibian’s home

Overview of the Repti Zoo Deep Dome Lamp Fixture

The Repti Zoo deep dome fixture is designed specifically for heating and lighting reptile and amphibian enclosures. It has an extra-long dome that keeps the bulb protected while also directing light and heat in a focused beam into the habitat.

Some key features of the Repti Zoo Deep Dome include

• Deep 5.5 or 8.5 inch dome for optimal light and heat focus
• Durable aluminum construction with polished reflective interior
• Accommodates bulbs up to 200 watts (for the 8.5″ size)
• Independent on/off switch on 6 foot power cord
• Hanging hook for adjustable positioning
• 1 year warranty

The dome shape and reflective interior help to direct the bulb’s output downwards in a tight beam, allowing more of the heat and light to penetrate the enclosure. The polished surface also creates a bright, broad light spectrum.

The deep dome can be used with most common heating and lighting bulbs for reptiles up to 200 watts, including:

• Ceramic heat emitters
• Daytime heat lamps
• Nighttime heat lamps (red, blue, or purple bulbs)
• UVB lamps
• Mercury vapor bulbs

With its versatility and specialized design, the Repti Zoo dome allows you to easily provide the lighting environment your particular reptile or amphibian needs to thrive

Setting Up and Using the Repti Zoo Deep Dome

Installing and using the Repti Zoo deep dome fixture is quick and straightforward. Here are a few tips for setup and usage:

• Place the dome on top of a wire mesh screen enclosure cover. This allows heat to dissipate while still allowing light to pass through.

• Screw your chosen bulb into the dome socket. Make sure not to exceed the recommended wattage for your specific dome size.

• Position the dome over the area of the enclosure you want to heat/light. The 6 foot power cord gives flexibility for adjustments.

• Plug in the fixture and use the inline switch to turn it on and off as needed.

• Use the hanging hook on the dome to raise the fixture up off the enclosure screen to adjust basking temperatures as needed.

• Monitor temperatures using a separate thermometer to maintain proper gradients.

• Allow the dome to fully cool before changing bulbs to avoid burns.

• Do not use the dome inside the enclosure or with plastic lids – the concentrated heat can be hazardous.

With a few simple precautions, the Repti Zoo dome can safely provide focused heat and light for reptiles or amphibians. Just be sure to follow all manufacturer guidelines.

Accessories and Add-Ons

One of the benefits of the Repti Zoo dome is that it can be used with a wide variety of bulb types and accessories to create customized habitats. Here are some top accessory options:

Reptile HEAT Projector Bulb

The Repti Zoo HEAT projector bulb provides infrared heat that reptiles can sense and bask under while only emitting a soft glow visible to humans. It’s an excellent nighttime heat source.

Reptisun UVB Bulb

Reptisun bulbs provide UVB rays that allow reptiles to produce vitamin D3 for healthy bones and muscles. The UVB output matches natural sunlight.

Laser Temperature Gun

A temperature gun allows quick spot-checks of basking areas to ensure temperatures are ideal. The laser sight pinpoints specific locations.

Clamp Lamp Stand

This adjustable stand securely clamps on to the terrarium to hold the dome at the perfect position over basking sites.

Hygrometer

A hygrometer is essential for monitoring humidity levels, which should be kept at proper ranges to support shedding and respiratory health.

With compatible accessories, the capabilities of the Repti Zoo dome can be expanded for the best environment.

Durability and Reliability

The Repti Zoo deep dome is designed to provide lasting performance. The thick aluminum construction allows it to withstand high temperatures from powerful bulbs, although the dome itself can get hot and should be handled carefully.

Thepolarity of thepower cord and switch makes incorrect and potentially dangerous bulb installation less likely. The reflective dome shape also minimizes glare and light spread to otherareas of the room.

For the most part, the Repti Zoo dome provides safe, focused heating and lighting when used as directed. The 1 year warranty provides some peace of mind, but a few users have reported issues with durability over time. Proper handling and avoiding over-tightening bulbs can help extend its functional lifespan.

Pros and Cons of the Repti Zoo Deep Dome

Here is a quick overview of the major advantages and potential downsides of the Repti Zoo deep dome fixture:

Pros:

• Allows focused delivery of heat/light
• Accommodates wide range of bulb types
• Sturdy aluminum construction
• Adjustable with hanging hook
• Built-in on/off switch
• 1 year warranty

Cons:

• Light aluminum can be prone to denting
• No clamp or stand included
• Can overheat plastic lids
• Some quality control issues reported
• No protective guard (must be used with caution)

Is This a Good Value Product?

Given its reasonable price point and ability to work with a variety of bulbs, the Repti Zoo deep dome represents a good value lighting solution for many herp hobbyists. It provides more efficient heat and light focus than open reflector domes.

The Repti Zoo dome’s performance capabilities make it a good choice for heating everything from small gecko enclosures to large boa constrictor habitats when paired with higher wattage bulbs.

For those seeking a basic but effective metal reflector dome the Repti Zoo is a budget-friendly option. More heavy duty or adjustable fixtures are available for those needing advanced functionality.

The Repti Zoo deep dome lamp fixture earns positive reviews for its focused light and heat delivery at an affordable price point. It can enhance the environments of reptiles and amphibians that require specialized heating and lighting. The polished dome and ability to pair with different bulb types are key advantages.

Just be sure to heed all safety precautions, as the exposed dome and heat can pose risks. Routinely checking your temperatures and humidity is also advised to keep your pet’s habitat in the optimal range. With attention to proper handling and monitoring, the Repti Zoo dome can be a quality lighting solution for your cold-blooded companions.