Safe basking lamp setup for Hermann’s tortoise enclosure

ColoradoHermann said:

Hello,
I’m planning my enclosure for a Western Hermann’s tortoise (expected this summer). I’m following Sterant’s design and have started gathering equipment.
I bought a Zoo Med Porcelain Clamp Lamp (8.5") for my basking setup, along with an Arcadia Solar Basking Floodlight 50W. However, the Zoo Med box says it should be used above a screen-top terrarium and not inside an enclosure (risk of fire).
My question is: what is the safest way to set up the basking light while still maintaining proper humidity for a hatchling—should I use a mesh top instead of placing it inside?
Also, would the same apply if I use a ceramic heat emitter (CHE)?

Thank you

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Tom said:

As long as the fixture hangs down a few inches from the ceiling, it will be totally safe. I use many of them that way. I also have a bunch of Animal Plastics enclosure with ceramic socket mounted directly on the ceiling. No problems to report after years of use with CHEs, incandescent bulbs, and LEDs.

I hang my fixtures with coffee cup hold hooks screwed into the ceiling and metal baling wire. Home Depot sell galvanized baling wire over in the picture hanging section. If you ask for "bailing wire" they won't likely know what you are talking above

Tom said:

As long as the fixture hangs down a few inches from the ceiling, it will be totally safe. I use many of them that way. I also have a bunch of Animal Plastics enclosure with ceramic socket mounted directly on the ceiling. No problems to report after years of use with CHEs, incandescent bulbs, and LEDs.

I hang my fixtures with coffee cup hold hooks screwed into the ceiling and metal baling wire. Home Depot sell galvanized baling wire over in the picture hanging section. If you ask for "bailing wire" they won't likely know what you are talking about.

Click to expand...

Hi Tom, I know you’re an experienced tortoise keeper, so I really appreciate your advice! Thanks so much, I’ll hang it a few inches from the ceiling and pick up cup hooks and galvanized wire at Home Depot.

Click to expand...

Tom said:

As long as the fixture hangs down a few inches from the ceiling, it will be totally safe. I use many of them that way. I also have a bunch of Animal Plastics enclosure with ceramic socket mounted directly on the ceiling. No problems to report after years of use with CHEs, incandescent bulbs, and LEDs.

I hang my fixtures with coffee cup hold hooks screwed into the ceiling and metal baling wire. Home Depot sell galvanized baling wire over in the picture hanging section. If you ask for "bailing wire" they won't likely know what you are talking about.

Click to expand...