New chicks coming, should I get a new heat bulb?

[cupman]

Well I had this 250 watt red heat bulb on my first batch of chicks beginning last spring. The heat light was on for probably about 7 weeks straight, I was an amateur and wasn't turning it off during the day as they aged, etc. Well, I threw the box to the bulb away I think so I can't read any instructions from there and I was just seeing what you guys thought. Will the light be reliable or should it be replaced?

 

[Ole rooster]

I have one of those lights in my well house. I've had it for 4 years and it's been on for weeks on end. Of all the light bulds I've bought over the years, this one is lasting longer than any. I certainly wouldn't have a problem using it.

 

[Fred's Hens]

I don't recall the hour rating, but I've brooded at least twice with one bulb, for sure. Have another ready, if you wish. You might also find that a lower wattage bulb, if you can find one at Home Depot, etc, a red flood light, with 125watt provides all the heat you'll need, since the weather is still mild.