Hermit crabs, dubbed as cold-blooded creatures, demands the need for external heat to stay alive. So, I came up with seven options for those people who are looking for the best heater for hermit crabs. Go through the end of this post to finally look for the right heater for your pet.
Why Do Hermit Crabs Need A Heater?
The right temperature is necessary for the hermit crabs to keep their metabolism going. The absence of a heater will shut down their organs leading to their death. The hermit’s enclosure must achieve a temperature between 22 and 27 degrees Celsius, except for those living in a tropical area. Here are the critical factors in buying such devices:
Durable
Heater for hermit crabs could be in the form of a mat or a pad, whichever you opt for durability is a must. The device must stick on the tank’s surface firmly for several days or months through an adhesive material.
Energy-efficient
Your prime goal should be to minimize the energy cost while nurturing your pet. Don’t worry, most of the listed heaters below are cost-effective.
Size Options
Having several heater size options is good for the buyers because different sizes of enclosures are available as well.
Top 7 Best Heater For Hermit Crabs
Aiicioo Upgrade Version Under Tank Heater
It is an upgraded version with more robust construction and is ideal for under tank assembly. The heater can last for 24-hours in providing warmth to reptilian species, including hermit crabs. Wait for six hours to finally get an accurate temperature reading inside the terrarium.
Finding an outlet is so convenient with its long power cord, but the cable may get in the way sometimes. You can mount this device on either bottom or side of the terrarium, whichever is more beneficial for the pet. It comes with a special glue to easily stick to the tank. Three options are available to choose for, which are fit for small or more significant crabs.
Its high level of nichrome content gives the right temperature for the crabs. The upgraded adhesive material can hold a heat resistance of 90 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
The glue will soon lose its efficacy. Removing it is not the best remedy, but buying a separate thermostat is a way better.
Pros
- Multiple options
- Easy to set up
- Solid materials used
Cons
- Additional cost for a thermostat
Zilla Reptile Terrarium Heat Mats
Looking for the right size of heat mats for hermit crabs is possible with Zilla Reptile Terrarium Heat Mats. They provide mini to vast heat mat options. It is essential to pick the right heat mat that fits the terrarium. The mat is composed of a unique adhesive that takes time to wear off finally.
It is an external heat source, which can be stuck underside or on the rear part of the terrarium. Once mounted, it would be difficult to remove. The heat mat is energy efficient, unlike any other heater for hermit crabs.
The pets can rely on Zilla Mat’s even and constant heat distribution for daily activities. It helps to enhance hermit crab’s appetite and metabolism. It only provides a specific amount of heat because there is no thermostat in it. Invest in a thermostat for temperature control.
Pros
- Sturdy construction
- Has bigger options
- Evenly distributes heat
Cons
- No thermostat
- Hard to deal with the adhesive
Zoo Med Repti Therm Under Tank Heater
Zoo Med is a well-known brand that concerns with the wellbeing of the reptiles in a terrarium. Each customer can enjoy a full one-year warranty upon this under tank heater at a very reasonable price. The heater is tested and approved by the experts.
It is available in many sizes and packages. If you own lots of hermit crabs, you can buy more packs of under tank heater at Zoo Med. The heater comes with an instruction manual for at ease assembly.
The heater can provide the appropriate temperature for the hermit crabs for 24-hours. It is by the nichrome heating element in which the heater renders safe and accurate temp for the pets.
It is ideal for putting under the tank. You can invest a thermostat for temperature control because it prevents frying the hermit crabs because of an uncontrolled heat. It would be better off with a thermostat though spending extra is expected.
Pros
- Safe for the pets
- Includes a year warranty
Cons
- Can damage the tank’s surface
- Works well with a separate purchase of thermostat
BN-LINK Digital Heat Mat Thermostat Controller
No need to spend some further costs to buy a thermostat in providing a better habitat for hermit crabs. BN-LINK gives it all in one package. The Heat Mat Thermostat Controller could be the best solution in providing an optimum temperature in a pet enclosure.
First is to set the temperature probe near the enclosure and then plug in the controller. You can customize the warmth level on its 3-button interface, which supports both Fahrenheit and Celsius units. There is a LED indicator to display the current temperature level that can be seen even in total darkness.
Plugging the device is made easy by its 6-feet long power cord that can suit almost any outlet application. It has a rugged construction, but do not go underwater the controller or the probe to avoid more considerable damage.
The device does not only work for hermit crabs but also for several uses, like growing indoor plants.
Pros
- Reasonably priced
- Great customer service
- Can go for several uses
Cons
- No troubleshooting guide
- UL certified
iPower Reptile Under Tank Heat Pad
Hermit crabs will be the happiest pet with the iPower Heat Pad. It is a versatile option with four various sizes to look for. The Heat Pad is waterproof and moisture-proof, which is perfect for placing underneath a tank. Knowing the said feature still prohibits the device from being sunk into the water.
It has improved design with new heating film and insulation, which enhances the overall heat transfer. The heat pad stays firm to the contact area with the help of 3M adhesive paper. It is easy to clean and saves up energy for all-time use.
You can plug the heater device into any 120V outlet without the use of an adapter, and safety is guaranteed through the device’s durable construction. A thermostat can be added to your purchase for better heat control.
Pros
- Excellent overall design
- Lengthy power cord
- Waterproof feature
Cons
- Responsive seller
- Adhesive issues
Zacro Reptile Heat Pad
The heat pad could warmth a 10 to 20-gallon tank containing hermit crabs. Most heat mats do not last long due to adhesive issues, but Zacro’s Heat Pad is different. It is made of high-quality materials with double-sided tape for a stronger grip. No worries as manuals are provided for the installation guide.
Users can experience stable performance when using the heat mat in a more extended period. It is highly efficient for giving a daily warm environment for the hermit crabs. The mat is placed underneath the tank with the help of the included double-sided tape. It ensures low energy consumption in even 24-hours operation.
The pad comes to you folded. Make sure to unfold the device before setting up to prevent any damage. It has a long power cord of about 6-feet for convenience, and it requires an 8W power to start working.
Pros
- Greatly valued heater
- Regulates tanks temperature
- Foldable design
Cons
- Decreasing heat output
Fluker’s 29050 Heat Mat
Another known brand for reptile stuff is the Fluker’s. They offer five heat mat sizes to fit on various tank dimensions. You can go for a mini heat mat that requires 2-watts of power to warm hermit crabs. Your pet can feel extra heat inside its terrarium for the betterment of its wellbeing.
The heat mat can be mounted under or on the side of the enclosure, depending on your liking. When you choose to place the mat below, put a thin layer of substrate in a tank to prevent heat buildup. Choose the latter if there is no bottom ventilation or heavy substrate inside the tank.
It has durable construction able to distribute uniform heat output for the hermit crabs. The heat mat operates at a constant temperature of 100 degrees Fahrenheit. It can be improved with the use of a thermostat.
This heat mat is possible to put inside the tank with proper supervision.
Pros
- Versatile
- A reliable heat mat
- Well-built
Cons
- It takes an hour to heat up
- Lack of adhesive
Conclusion
To summarize, hermit crabs cannot withstand a stone-cold territory. Thanks to the heaters made especially for them. These devices provide heat to hermit crabs, helping them live better and longer. It comes in different forms but these devices serve only one purpose – to warmth the cold-blooded hermit crabs.
Also, take note of the three key factors which the best heater for hermit crabs must bear. These will save you so much cost in finding the right device.
