Murcury vapor bulb

[tortgirl123]

Hi guys! Just a couple questions about the Mercury Vapor Bulb. I know eventually I'm going to get one, the question is, when? If this is a coil bulb than I will immediately. I heard that they are a basking bulb and UVB in one, is this true? Is it worth the expense?
Thanks guys!
Here's a picture of the bulb:

 

[TortsNTurtles]

You will have to read the instructions but I don't think it's a heat source . Also if you do use it it needs to be horizontal like a long tube not screwed in a lamp like a bulb. They sell hoods made for this type of bulb. It usually has a heat type bulb on one side and this bulb on the other. There is also a burn in time so you are aware of that. After the burn in time it needs to be between 9-12 inches to get the benefits. Just follow whatever is recommended by the manufacturer since each company may be different as far as recommended distance.