FINCHforum

What do you guys think? I've had finches forever and don't really know which one is better. I've heard a lot of positives on the ceramic no light heat emitter (doesn't put off light, just heat... lasts longer).

I've always used the red bulbs for heat... It is also good because than the birds have a night light (they are also less expensive, but don't last as long).

What does everyone else use? Do you think one over the other is more likely to start a fire?

I would be interested to see what others post regarding comparing the two direct heat sources.

I only have one ceramic heat bulb and have it on one cage. Having 5 cages I'd like to get a few more but it's expensive. I'd like to know whether the red heat bulb is better/worse or the same as the ceramic heat bulb for heat, lifespan and fire potential.

Thanks for posting this question!

I just bought the Arizona small dome light and an infrared bulb a couple weeks ago. The bulb was cheaper so that is why I bought it. I like the dome light unit because it has a dimmer switch so I can adjust the amount of heat that emits from the bulb. That way it doesn't have to be on full blast all the time which might make it last longer? We'll see!

I have used both ceramic heat emitters and the red heat bulbs like are sold for poultry. To prevent fire danger, I buy the reflector lamps that Tractor Supply sells for poultry--they have a ceramic base and are rated for 300w. Probably overkill, but it makes me feel safer. If you have very many cages you are using lights on, that many red heat bulbs makes it look like the building is on fire!

When I had the birds out in my shed, I had to use some kind of lamp on each cage, the space heaters couldn't keep the larger area warm enough. Now that I have the birds in my small bird room, one space heater keeps it very cozy, and I haven't had to use the heat lamps this winter.

For a night light in my bird room, I have a 25w regular red bulb in the ceiling, and that seems to be enough.

I us ethe smaller red heat lamps sold for reptiles and they are in the reflector lamp shade thingies also, and they have a clamp on them to hook any where needed.
I have 2 going at all times. one is on my gouldians top of the community cage and its always on so IF SOMEONE gets ill or chilled they can go hop under it they are smart as they get to warm they scooch over abit.
then I have one on my cordons cage the side of it but thats the one I move around if I notic eanyone sick.

they double as the night light and I can go in at 2 a.m and see perfectly well.
LOVE THEM and they last quit awhile,

Hmm... maybe I'll do some research on these bulbs.... I would really like to know if one has been proven to be better.

Ok... so I had a little time to do some research, however I'm still not satisfied!


HEAT: The temperature where the chicks are should be 90 to 95 degrees for the first week. Reduce the temperature five degrees per week until you get to 70 degrees. They shouldn't need any heat after 70 degrees. Use a thermometer to measure temperature. Do not guess.
A good source of heat is a 250 watt heat bulb (red bulbs are better than white. They cause less picking.) Hang it 18 inches from the floor. The temperature directly under the bulb will be higher than 90 degrees. but the chicks will adjust themselves to the area they like. Use one bulb for each 50 chicks in cold weather. Use one bulb for each 100 chicks in warm weather.
LIGHT: If you use a heat bulb, this will also serve as the light you need. Otherwise, be sure to give your chicks light. Use a 75-watt bulb on dark days. Have a small light for night- 15 watts or similar - to keep them from piling.
Resource: http://en.allexperts.com/q/Parrots-1638 ... udgies.htm


JUST COPY AND PASTE THIS LINK IN A NEW BROWSER
http://books.google.com/books?id=AbU4Lg ... 8ZG1NaKA4g
– this says some interesting information about heat sources with parrots…. It says not to use the infrared heat bulbs and that the ceramic heat bulbs can get to hot or be a fire danger


THIS IS FROM ANOTHER FORUM -

Gabe
Licensed Rehabber, Central New York Join Date: Oct 2006
Location: Central New York

Ceramic Heat Bulbs
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Does anyone use these? I'm interested in trying them. My question is how well do they provide heat. I use small 10 gal aquariums for eyes closed babies and for nestling birds. Will these keep them as warm as a heating pad?
Will they give any heat if I use them on a small ferret cage? Do they become hot to touch? Can I hang them inside a wall cage, and not worry about burns?


Mars
Senior Member Join Date: Dec 2006
Location: NE
Posts: 3,241

Re: Ceramic Heat Bulbs
________________________________________
Too well. The only control you have is the distance at which you place them. And they get very hot, you need a special fixture for them and a cage. They are best used for reptiles that do not generate thier own heat. If you use them be careful, keep a thermometer handy and check it often.

A better solution are the chemical glove warmers by Garber. they come in different sizes and last up to 24 hours. They are non toxic. Garber has a rehabber program for us to buy at a reduced cost.

I am working on plans for a heating system that will use hot circulating water to keep babies warm. I'll let you know how it works out. Just remind me.

Resource: http://www.thesquirrelboard.com/forums/ ... php?t=3068



ALTERNATIVE?
Heated Perches
K&H Small Thermo Perch
Product Description
Give tropical and exotic birds the warmth they crave. A heated bird cage perch warms feet, where birds need it the most, reduces stress caused by cold drafts and air conditioning and increases blood circulation in the feet reducing health problems.

The heated perch's irregular shape mimics a tree branch to help reduce foot cramping and pressure sores and lets each bird find their own comfortable spot. The bird perch's temperature ranges from 99 to 107 degrees along the perch so birds can choose the amount of warmth they need.

Made of scratch resistant, non-toxic plastic, the heated bird cage perch cleans easily with soap and water.
• Reduces cold-related stress
• Warms birds at their feet. Protects from harmful effects of air conditioning and cold drafts.
• Great for use with a sick bird
• Irregular shape helps reduce foot cramping and pressure sores
• Thermostatically controlled to optimum body temperature
• Irregular shape helps reduce foot cramping and pressure sores
• Thermostatically controlled to optimum body temperature
• Temperature ranges from 99 to 107 degrees along the perch
• Made of sturdy scratch and bite resistant non-toxic plastic
• Easy to clean with soap and water
Small
• Size: 1/2" to 1" diameter x 10 1/2" long
• Use for Small birds: Finches, Cockatiels, Parakeets, Canaries
Medium:
• Size: 5/8" to 11/4" diameter x 13" long
• Use for Medium birds: Amazons, African Greys, Pionus Parrot
Large
• Size: 11/4" to 2" diameter x 141/2" long
• Use for Large birds: Macaws, large Cockatoos, Toucans
Resource: http://www.avianweb.com/perches.htm



http://www.finchinfo.com/housing/heating_systems.php - This is what finchinfo.com says about heating…. Everything is so contradicting!



This is Dr. Foster and Smiths description of the infrared ceramic heat bulbs….
Bask 'N' Heat Infrared Heat Emitters
* Replicates the warmth of the sun
* Emits no light
* Therapeutic heat promotes health and long life of birds
Provides therapeutic, penetrating heat that replicates the warmth of the sun. Bask 'N' Heat Ceramic Infrared Heat Emitter element utilizes energy-efficient insulation to direct heat down to the bird, resulting in a longer life for the heater.Site - http://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/p ... catid=5716

ok are ya talkin for chickens or house birds? lol

For my flight cages - I will use a red spot light for warmth and it doubles as a night light.

For my hospital cage I use the ceramic heat emitter.

TammyS wrote:For my flight cages - I will use a red spot light for warmth and it doubles as a night light.

For my hospital cage I use the ceramic heat emitter.

Tammy - Can you tell us the make and wattage of your red spot lights, please? Thanks!

Sure..Sylvania 50w red spot light. Unfortunately, they seem to be hard to find. I've only been able to find them at the Menards near me.

Much appreciated. I'll write it down and keep an eye out for them.