Most companies nowadays advertise another type of storage besides a traditional one, and that’s climate-controlled storage. These units are more expensive than regular ones but they still grow in popularity for various benefits they provide. Climate-controlled units are beneficial if you’re storing certain types of items, if you live in an area with extreme heat or cold, if your storage is in a humid area, etc.
Your belongings can be affected by all sorts of things while they’re being stored. That includes pests, rodents, dust, mildew, moisture, etc. So how do you keep your possessions in top shape and avoid damage? The answer is often – a climate-controlled storage unit. In the following text, we’ll go over the basics that you should know about climate-controlled storage and we’ll cover the 9 items that require climate-controlled storage.
What is Climate Controlled Storage?
Climate-controlled storage units are also known as temperature-controlled storage units. Among different types of storage solutions, climate-controlled storage units are designed to keep humidity and temperature at optimum. They are placed indoors and secured. That makes them safer for you and your belongings.
They use HVAC systems to keep the best conditions for your possessions. That includes heating, ventilation, A/C, customizable thermostats, dehumidifiers & heavy-duty insulation. Some factors can help you decide if you need this type of facility. Since it is a bit more expensive than the regular one, you may hesitate before renting it.
Firstly, think about the time. Do you need to store your things for a couple of days or weeks, or you plan on keeping them in storage for a prolonged period? If you just need a quick solution, then short-term storage will probably be enough. Or, if you plan on using the storage for a long time, it may be better to go for a climate-controlled unit.
Next, think about the area where you live. Is it extremely hot, cold, or humid? If the answer is yes, you’ll probably benefit from a climate-controlled space. That way you’ll protect your items from extreme temperatures and high humidity. Lastly, consider the item type. Not all items require optimum conditions to stay in their best shape.
Items That Require Climate-Controlled Storage
The following list covers some of the items that require climate-controlled storage. But, this is not an exhaustive list. There are more items that would greatly benefit from it. If you’re not sure whether your possessions need optimum conditions, ask your storage company for some advice. In some cases, traditional storage facilities will be enough to keep your things safe.
Wooden Furniture
In addition to temperature regulation, climate-controlled storage units offer the added benefit of humidity control. The presence of moisture can cause significant damage to wooden furniture, making it imperative to maintain optimal humidity levels. Failure to do so may result in cracking, warping, and even rotting of the wood. Climate-controlled units are particularly advantageous for storing other wooden items such as dressers and bed frames.
Leather Items
If you live in an area that has extreme temperature changes, then renting a traditional storage unit is not the best option. Leather items can be extremely sensitive to temperature changes. It’s safest to keep them in areas with optimum conditions. Especially if you have expensive pieces of leather furniture or other valuable leather items.
Musical Instruments
Musical instruments are commonly regarded as a significant investment, and as such, it is imperative to ensure their optimal condition. Given their delicate nature, it is essential to provide them with appropriate conditions to preserve their value. Climate-controlled storage units are the most effective means of safeguarding instruments from damage. It is worth noting that humidity and extreme temperatures can adversely affect the integrity of musical instruments, as with other valuable items.
Household Appliances
Improper storage of household appliances may result in the development of rust, mildew, cracks, or other issues. To ensure the longevity of your dishwasher, dryer, washer, refrigerator, or any other household appliance, it is recommended to conduct a thorough cleaning and store them in a climate-controlled storage facility.
Artwork
Another thing you should keep in a climate-controlled unit is a piece of artwork, whether you have an extremely valuable piece or your artwork has an emotional value. To keep your artwork in top shape, store them in units that have optimum temperature conditions and regulated humidity levels.
Besides works of art, your craft supplies should also be stored properly if you want to maintain their quality. For example, sewing machines, fabrics, and other supplies can be damaged by moisture, dust, rodents, UV exposure, so it’s best if you keep them in controlled conditions.
Photographs
When storing stacks of photographs, it is imperative to exercise caution and avoid exposing them to heat, as they are susceptible to fading or fusing together. To ensure their preservation, it is recommended to store photographs in a climate-controlled storage unit.
Clothing
Rather than purchasing seasonal clothing and incurring significant expenses, it is advisable to preserve them and retrieve them from storage as needed. Prior to storing, ensure that your clothing is thoroughly cleaned and dried, and store it in a climate-controlled environment. For optimal outcomes, opt for plastic containers instead of cardboard ones.
Business Documents
If you have any business documents or other paperwork you want to keep out of home, renting a climate-controlled storage unit may be a great solution. By doing so, you’ll keep them away from humidity and extreme temperatures and have them unchanged when you need them.
Electronics
Electronic equipment is extremely sensitive and can get damaged if exposed to heat, temperature shifts, humidity, etc. Keeping your electronics in a traditional storage unit is not a good idea, so go for a climate-controlled one in this case.
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