what size heat lamp bulb do i need if my cage is 3 ft high and it needs to be around 100dgrz on basking end?

Answer 1

I have a 120 gallon that is about that high, and i use a 100w bulb, it keeps the basking area around 90, so you may want to go up a size.

Answer 2

the SIZE actually doesnt make the difference. it is you who decide wheteher you want ordinary size (big household bulb) or the smaller ones (like those that you use in your bedside lamp). For your tank size both can be used. It is up to you.

Since you can buy different Wattage (W) bulbs in both sizes and they are quite cheap (ordinary household bulbs).

All you need to do is to take just any bulb (you most probably have some at home) and try it with a thermometer to see whether you choose the right W. This is better than trying to calculate it. my guess is either 75W or 100W or 150W. it depends on ambient temperature and, most importantly, how close the bulb is from the basking place
Anyway, you would want to, say, use a stronger bulb for the winter than for the summer (even if yuo are planning to have a thermostat).

And if you need some expensive type of bulb, then it is also advisable to check it first with an ordinary bulb to see what Wattage you actually need so that you dont waste money for a wrong wattage

Answer 3

I just use regular household lightbulbs. 75W or 100W. Use with a dome reflector. Have a basking spot that is close enough to the lamp to reach the desired temperature. Use an indoor/outdoor digital thermometer (you can tape the probe end to the basking spot) to accurately measure the temperature. Stick on and dial thermometers can be up to 20F off! If you get a dimmer switch to plug the lamp into, you can easily adjust the temperature as needed.