If you bought a ceramic heat emitter and are wondering what fixture it goes in, the most important thing to check is the socket and wattage rating. A ceramic heat emitter gets extremely hot and should be used only in a heat-rated fixture with a ceramic socket that is rated for at least the wattage of the emitter.
What fixture do I need for a ceramic heat emitter?
Use a reptile heat-lamp fixture with a ceramic socket. Do not assume that every dome lamp is suitable just because the emitter screws into it. Check the fixture manufacturer's maximum wattage before use.
A simple rule is: fixture rating ≥ ceramic heat emitter wattage. A 100W ceramic heat emitter needs a fixture rated for at least 100W. A 150W emitter needs a fixture rated for at least 150W.
100W ceramic heat emitter
For a 100W emitter, choose a ceramic-socket fixture rated to 100W or higher. Pristine Pet Supply currently carries the Reptile Systems 100W Ceramic Heat Emitter and the Arcadia Ceramic Heat Emitter in multiple wattages.
150W ceramic heat emitter
A 150W emitter requires a fixture rated for at least 150W. The Reptile Systems 150W Ceramic Heat Emitter is a higher-output heat source, so checking the fixture rating is especially important.
One option in our catalog is the Fluker's Repta-Lighting Systems Clamp-Lamp 8.5in. Fluker's manufacturer guidance states that its 8.5-inch ceramic-socket clamp lamp is rated up to 150W for incandescent bulbs or ceramic heat emitters.
We also carry the Arcadia Ceramic Reflector Clamp Lamp. Always select the correct fixture size/rating for the heat source you plan to use.
Do I need a thermostat?
Temperature control is an important part of reptile heating. Arcadia recommends using its ceramic heaters with an appropriate thermostatic control system and checking enclosure temperatures with a separate thermometer. The correct temperature depends on the species, enclosure and heating setup, so do not choose a thermostat setting based on a universal reptile temperature.
Pristine Pet Supply carries the Zilla Digital Temperature Controller 1000W for compatible reptile heating setups.
Can I use a regular light fixture?
Do not use a household lamp or an unrated fixture simply because the emitter fits the socket. Ceramic heat emitters produce substantial heat. Use a fixture specifically rated for the heat source and never exceed the fixture's maximum wattage.
Ceramic heat emitter safety checklist
- Use a heat-rated ceramic socket.
- Confirm the fixture's maximum wattage before installing the emitter.
- Never exceed the fixture wattage rating.
- Use appropriate thermostatic temperature control.
- Keep the hot emitter away from flammable materials.
- Prevent the reptile from contacting the hot emitter or fixture; use an appropriate protective cage when the heat source is mounted inside an enclosure.
- Follow the emitter, fixture and thermostat manufacturers' installation instructions.
Shop reptile heating
If you still need the emitter, fixture or temperature-control equipment, browse our Reptile Heating collection.
This guide provides general educational information. Reptile heating requirements vary by species and enclosure. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for each product and confirm your animal's temperature requirements with an appropriate reptile-care professional when needed.