Infrared basking light

Hey everyone, I just bought an Exoterra 150w infrared basking spot bulb yesterday to use for my boa tank. I have it on a dimmer and keeping right at 89 degrees. Is it safe to keep the bulb on 24 hours? I've seen some infrared bulbs say it's good to keep on all the time.

TIA

I keep it on 24 hours for my Tokays and 12/12 on/off for the Bearded, only because he won't require all that heat at night.

Thanks! Yeah I pulled up the Exoterra site and it says it's safe for 24 hours.

Just a suggestion, but have you considered switching to heat tape or a heat pad? The initial cost may be higher but you will save a lot in the long run. Those bulbs don't last very long when ran 24 hours. It's safe, but you are decreasing the life span and burning a lot of electricity.

I was thinking about buying a ceramic heating element for my cresteds since my apartment is getting pretty chilly at night and will be downright cold come winter.

Focal, can we get some more info from you regarding the heat tape? I'd actually like to see it set up in relation to plastic tubs for reptiles.

Here's a decent video for doing your own:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jaAsi1YnHRQ

Here's a video for wiring a rheostat/light dimmer:

http://ball-pythons.net/forums/showthread.php?78848-DIY-Rheostat-%28dimmer%29-for-temp-control

I use aluminum tape to adhere the flexwatt/heat tape to the tub or rack that I am using. If you are using a thermostat, you want to keep the aluminum tape away from the probe as it can give an incorrect reading.

I really like flexwatt but if you are not handing with crimping, electricity, soldering etc, I would stick with a pre-made heat pad like a Flukers. Some hobbyists HAVE caused house fires from incorrectly installing or wiring it wrong.

The good thing about heat tape is the heating source doesn't need to be extra hot to meet desired temps. For example, a light bulb can burn at 150+ degrees to reach a desired temp of 90. Heat also rises so it's fighting against itself. Where as, heat tape is usually installed underneath or on the back and, for example, can only be 110 degrees to reach a desired temp of 90 and potentially operate using far less electricity.

Oh! I have a heat pad and using the infrared light.

Nothing beats Heat Tape on a thermostat for the price, you can get heat tape already hooked up ready to go (no extra charge) from Reptile Basics

http://www.reptilebasics.com/heat-tape

A little more pricey option that is my personal favorite is Radiant Heat Panels (with a thermostat)