For what it's worth I use 40 watt zoo med red night bulbs on my 20g long tanks (30 x 12x 12). And it keeps my tempatures right where I like them. I also have custom inserts covering almost two thirds of the tank. What I don't understand, and if I've been following your posts correctly. Is you are living in an environment which you have little to no control over, and lack the financial resources to provide for your animals properly. Sorry, I'm not trying to be rude. And I know this has been pointed out before. The only reason I posted, was to acknowledge that bulbs work just as well as any other source when used properly. Good luck.