Its not pointless if its for heat. If it were for light alone I could agree and would suggest using LEDs but not when the heat benefit is needed.
Without my bulb my tank would be 65-68F. I have two glass tanks in my living room and I keep my home cold. I have to use a heat source and use lamps and a che to keep the temps right. Sure its not cheaper than some cage styles to heat but I like how they display so I pay what I need to.
A ceramic bulb is far better than the red bulbs. My suggestion would be to change from a red light bulb to a ceramic bulb. At the end of the day you need to do what works for you!