Make sure any lighting is low-intensity, because too much heat can dry out and kill crabs. Hermit crabs exist best in a temperature range of 70 to 85 degrees. The purpose of any lighting is not to heat the habitat (the room temperature itself should be above 65 degrees); rather, it maintains the tank temperature at a relatively constant level when it is dropping in the room. If the tank is plastic, care should be taken that any lighting be low enough in intensity so as not to melt the plastic.

The habitat should not be placed near windows where direct sunlight could bake the crabs or air conditioning could chill them. Placing the crabs too close to the room's heat source, such as a wood stove or a radiator, could be as risky as placing them too far away. Be careful to place the habitat away from areas where household chemicals and sprays are stored or used. If you must use chemicals in the room, cover the tank with a towel or sheet.

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