Providing proper lighting, including UVA and UVB rays, is essential for the health and wellbeing of reptiles The Zoo Med Reptisun T5 High Output (HO) Terrarium Hood paired with Reptisun T5 HO bulbs offers an excellent lighting solution for a variety of reptiles. In this in-depth review, we’ll cover the key features, pros and cons, installation, safety, and value of this popular terrarium hood.
Overview of the Zoo Med Reptisun T5 HO Terrarium Hood
The Zoo Med Reptisun T5 HO Terrarium Hood is a low-profile hood specially designed to work with Reptisun T5 HO fluorescent bulbs. It comes in 5 sizes – 15″, 24″, 30″, 36″, and 48″ – to accommodate different terrarium lengths.
The sleek, curved design maximizes light efficiency. The highly polished reflector increases UVB output by 30% compared to a standard reflector. The electronic ballast provides rapid start-up and optimal bulb output.
This terrarium hood emits high levels of UVA, UVB and visible light when used with Reptisun T5 HO bulbs. The bulbs come in UVB 5.0 and 10.0 strengths to suit different species’ needs. The 10.0 bulbs are twice the strength of T8 fluorescent bulbs.
Overall, the Reptisun T5 HO setup provides intense UVB penetration ideal for large, tall enclosures. The system is energy efficient and designed to replicate natural sunlight.
Key Features and Benefits
Here are some of the standout features of the Zoo Med Reptisun T5 HO Terrarium Hood:
- Low-profile design – Maximizes UVB exposure in shallow enclosures
- Highly polished, curved reflector – Increases UVB output by 30% for optimal efficiency
- Electronic ballast – Provides rapid start-up and peak lamp performance
- T5 HO fluorescents – Twice the UVB strength of standard T8 bulbs
- 5 size options – Accommodate terrariums from 15″ to 48″ long
- Use with Reptisun T5 HO bulbs – Provide intense levels of UVA, UVB, and visible light
Pros and Cons
Here are some of the key pros and cons of the Zoo Med Reptisun T5 HO Terrarium Hood based on customer reviews and experience
Pros
- Significant UVB output
- Low profile design
- Energy efficient
- Polished reflector increases efficiency
- Different size options
Cons
- Expensive initial cost
- Possible quality control/longevity issues
- May need to replace bulbs frequently
- Can get hot and be a burn risk
Installation and Usage
Installing and using the Zoo Med Reptisun T5 HO Terrarium Hood is straightforward:
- Select the appropriate wattage Reptisun T5 HO bulb for your hood size
- Turn off and unplug the light before installing bulb
- Insert pins into lamp sockets, rotate 1⁄4 turn to lock in place
- Position hood over screen top, plug in, and turn on light switch
- Use a timer to regulate 12 hours on/off cycle
- Replace UVB bulbs every 6-12 months per manufacturer guidelines
Always unplug the light when handling to avoid electrical shocks and burns. Let the fixture cool before touching.
Safety Tips
It’s important to follow safety precautions when using this high-powered UVB lighting system:
- Do not exceed the wattage rating for your hood size
- Only use over dry terrarium enclosures – do not get wet
- Ensure the cord and plug are undamaged before use
- Do not modify or splice the electrical cord
- Never stare directly at the illuminated bulbs
- Keep a minimum 6″ distance between bulbs and basking area
- Supervise children and pets around the hot fixture
- Allow to fully cool before replacing bulbs
- Follow all manufacturer instructions
Is the Zoo Med Reptisun T5 HO Hood a Good Value?
The Zoo Med Reptisun T5 HO Terrarium Hood ranges from $30-60 depending on size. The matching T5 HO UVB bulbs cost $25-40 each.
While not cheap, this setup provides intense, focused UVB for optimal reptile health. The polished reflector increases output and efficiency. When used properly, the bulbs only need replacing yearly.
The Zoo Med Reptisun T5 HO lighting system is a great choice for:
- New reptile owners wanting proper UVB lighting
- Breeders needing UVB for hatchlings
- Owners with tall/large enclosures that require strong UVB penetration
- Herp vets creating hospital cages
For species like bearded dragons, iguanas, chameleons, and other tropical/desert reptiles, the Zoo Med Reptisun T5 HO Hood provides the right amount of concentrated UVB for a thriving pet.
The Zoo Med Reptisun T5 HO Terrarium Hood is a high-quality lighting solution for many reptiles’ UVB needs. The sleek, low-profile design emits intense UVB, UVA, and heat when paired with Reptisun T5 HO fluorescent bulbs.
The curved, polished reflector maximizes light efficiency so your pet benefits from total exposure. The electronic ballast provides optimal lamp performance for years of use.
Overall, with some basic safety precautions, the Zoo Med Reptisun T5 HO setup is an excellent investment for maintaining your reptile’s health. Just be sure to get the appropriately sized hood and tubes for your enclosure and species’ UVB requirements.
HighlightsThe AI used to provide these results are constantly improving. These results might change.
Works great and fits well on top of tank.
Works great and fits well on top of tank. Read Less
It is very nice and high quality.
It is very nice and high quality. Read Less
It lights up a good 1/3 or slightly more of the terrarium i have without taking up too much space that the heat lamps use.
It lights up a good 1/3 or slightly more of the terrarium i have without taking up too much space that the heat lamps use. Read Less
Have had mine for about six months now and i havent had any issues with it.
Have had mine for about six months now and i havent had any issues with it. Read Less
A little overpriced, but any version of a light like this is going to cost the same.
A little overpriced, but any version of a light like this is going to cost the same. Read Less
Quick delivery, got it the next day.
Quick delivery, got it the next day. Read Less
Company promptly shipped me a replacement with no hassle.
Company promptly shipped me a replacement with no hassle. Read Less
Was packaged just fine and arrived in working order.
Was packaged just fine and arrived in working order. Read Less
Came new in the box, working great for my red eared slider.
Came new in the box, working great for my red eared slider. Read Less
Out of the box it wasnt working i was concerned that the lamp had been damaged in transit but as it turns out whoever put the … Read More
Out of the box it wasnt working i was concerned that the lamp had been damaged in transit but as it turns out whoever put the light in put it in backwards. Read Less
I was pleasantly surprised when i opened it and found that it came with a light already.
I was pleasantly surprised when i opened it and found that it came with a light already. Read Less
- How are reviewers describing this item?great, turned, good, stopped and happy.
- Our engine has profiled the reviewer patterns and has determined that there is high deception involved.
- Our engine has analyzed and discovered that 56.3% of the reviews are reliable.
- This product had a total of 1,066 reviews as of our last analysis date on Jan 20 2025.
Helpful InsightsBETAThe AI used to provide these results are constantly improving. These results might change.
- Posted by a reviewer on AmazonI got this thinking i’d have to buy the light alsoPosted by a reviewer on AmazonI was pleasantly surprised when i opened it and found that it came with a light alreadyPosted by a reviewer on AmazonOriginal product i received was dead on arrivalPosted by a reviewer on AmazonDid not have to return the defective one leaving me with an extra bulbPosted by a reviewer on AmazonIt is what it is and its goodPosted by a reviewer on AmazonI guess ill buy that mount from the zoo med websitePosted by a reviewer on AmazonOut of the box it wasnt working i was concerned that the lamp had been damaged in transit but as it turns out whoever put the light in put it in backwardsPosted by a reviewer on AmazonBut anything bigger than that you’ll def need a bigger tube light
Repti Zoo T5 HO UVB Lighting Combo 10.0 Desert Review!
What is a zoo med reptisun T5 HO high output terrarium Hood?
Zoo med reptisun t5 ho high output terrarium hood employs a rapid start electronic ballast that maximizes lamp performance. t5 Reptile light fixture also features a highly polished Curved reflector that directs light down into the terrarium so your Reptile receives the full benefits of t5 ho high output Linear fluorescent lamps.
Which zoo med terrarium Hood is best?
The Zoo Med Reptisun T5 HO Terrarium Hood offers a sleek low profile design. The black plastic hood has a curved reflector which offers the best lighting, ideal for deep and large enclosures. The lamp is the strongest of the ReptiSun lamps, they are double the strength of T8 fluorescents, offering visible light, UVA and UVB.
Can a terrarium Hood be used with a reptisun light bulb?
The bulb is available in a 5.0 and 10.0 version and in a variety of lengths, which can be used effectively with the terrarium hood. This hood is low profile to increase light and UV output. It is used in conjunction with the Zoo Med Reptisun T5 HO lamps, which are safe and effective in providing UVB.
Are Zoo med reptisun T5 high output bulbs good?
The Zoo Med Reptisun T5 High Output bulb offers both UVA and UVB in a stronger output. The High output T5 lights are great for large and tall enclosures, providing effective UVB penetration to keep your reptile happy and healthy.
What is a high output terrarium Hood?
Zoo Med’s New ReptiSun® T5 High Output Terrarium Hoods are perfect for housing High Output T5 ReptiSun® bulbs. High Output T5’s are a great option for larger and taller enclosures as they provide UVB penetration at greater distances. These hoods are available in 14”, 24”, 30”, 36”, and 48” sizes.
What size Hood do I need for my reptisun T5 Ho?
The hood comes with 5 sizes to suit for different reptile enclosures: 15 inch, 24 inch, 30 inch, 36 inch and 48 inch. The hood works perfectly with ReptiSun T5 HO fluorescent bulbs (both UVB 5.0 and UVB 10.0) to provide UVA, UVB and visible light. The hood is an excellent investment, ensuring you provide ample UVA and UVB for your reptile pet.