Question for fluorescent adherents: I'm making a terraruim 16 cu. ft. (4' long x 2' x 2') that'll be lighted with 40-watt 4' tubes. I'm hoping to fit as many as I can find in there, as many as 8 or more, but it occurs to me that it might get too hot. Should I put the ballasts outside the terrarium (I'm wiring it myself and discarding the reflectors)? It'll be plexiglass on the front and is mylar-covered wood on the back and sides... haven't worked out the ventilation and humidity yet. Obviously if I end up venting it aggressively to deal with heat buildup I'll let too much of our seriously dessicated air in and humidity will suffer... this'll be a home for several neps (maxima, ventrata, ventricosa, gracilis) and some dews.
How many bulbs with or without ballasts get too hot? I know it's relative but any experience, suggestions or speculations welcome.
How many bulbs with or without ballasts get too hot? I know it's relative but any experience, suggestions or speculations welcome.