Adult Leo follow up

Question
QUESTION: Hey. I had to ask a new question.  So the bulb I'm using is an exco Terra repti glo 10.0 UVB 26 watt desert terrarium light.The basking and UVB buld is 18 inches away from her.  Is that good?  

Yea Ive had her for a year but I kept her on tile and when I bough her the new cage I've put sand in it. She seemed shocked at first but doesn't seem to mind it much. I live in Florida so it's not that cold even in winter. Lately were having cold front where the weather is getting into the 60s so I want tto be able to give her an good evironment. Thank you so much for helping me.

ANSWER: Hello Taylor,

Well, that will be fine with it being that far away from her.  Since leos don't need high UVB exposure either you don't have to worry about the weak UVB emissions it puts out.  The distance is fine for safety as well so there should not be irritation to the eyes at 18 inches.
Normally I don't recommend sand but if you have not had any problems with it, then just keep it cleaned out daily & nice & dry to avoid excess bacterial growth.  
We are in Florida too so luckily it is not near as cold as up north.  I think you are doing fine.  

Let me know how things are going.

Tracie

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank you so much. I'm sure I'll have Many more questions for you. My Leo has only been on sand for three days now so I'm still watching her. How long should I keep the UVB bulb on for? I have a timer where I could set it. Do you recomended the 8 hours a day? Or should I just flip it on when I get a chance and turn it off a few hours later. Thanks again

Answer
Hello Taylor,

No problem!  Please let me know how things are going.  
You can leave the UVB on for 8 hours during the day, that is no problem.  I don't think you need a 12 hour day for the UVB but for the basking light you can leave it on for 12 if you want to.

I hope she is doing good today.

Tracie