wattage for infrared bulb in brooder?

[Woodlebrain]

Good Evening, I have 15 coturnix eggs we are currently attempting to hatch. My home made brooder will be a 20g aquarium. What watt infrared bulb should I be getting so I don't make fried quail? Thanx in advance.

 

[cookiesdaddy]

I use a 30 gallon tote box for brooder. I wired a 250W red bulb through a dimmer and adjust so I can achieve the right temperature. I have a thermometer in the brooder, but the best indicator is just watching the chicks whether they huddle up to keep warm (too cold) or scatter away from the light (too hot). I used 75W and 100W bulbs before but found it's hard to adjust without the dimmer. Also, 250W bulbs are more common and cheaper, and they last longer running at lower wattage on a dimmer. Just what I use.

 

[Woodlebrain]

my problem is I have 2 cats intent on getting in so I need to use the aquarium with the solid wire mesh on top. Should I start with the 75 or the 100?