Okay, so you are at the point where you know you need to rent a storage unit, but you do not know whether you should take the climate controlled option or skip it. It happens to everyone, especially those who are new to renting a unit. Climate controlled units are ideal for maintaining an even temperature and humidity throughout the year. This means that you do not have to worry about temperature fluctuations while your items are in storage.
The question that is likely on your mind right now though is do you actually need it? AND, is it worth the extra money?
When it boils down to it, the decision is up to you and will be based on your personal preferences along with what you can afford, but, below, you will find some of the main benefits to a climate controlled storage unit.
Controlled Environment
One of the nice things about a climate controlled unit is that it is a controlled environment which means that there is better air quality throughout the building, and you do not have to worry about dust particles and other debris in the air.
Outdoor units often collect dust due to their location and the fact that you can drive around them since cars kick up dust. Having an indoor unit will cut back on the amount of dust that collects in your unit.
Avoid Extreme Temperatures
Depending on where you live, the temperature can change drastically in both the summer and the winter. In some areas, the temperature may reach more than 100 degrees or may fall below 30 degrees. Depending on what items you are storing, it is important that you protect them as extreme temperature changes can destroy them.
Climate controlled units are usually kept somewhere below 80 degrees in the summer and above freezing in the winter along with controlled humidity ranges to protect your items.
Here are some of the most common items that need to be in a climate controlled environment:
- Furniture
- Mattresses
- Vinyl records
- Electronics
- Books and photos
- Musical instruments
- Antiques
- Important papers and documents
- Jewelry and clothes
Is it Worth the Cost?
Again, this is going to be a personal decision that you will have to make but when it boils down to it, the additional cost is much less than having to replace all of the items that may become warped or damaged due to the extreme temperatures.
Climate controlled units are quite affordable and not too much more expensive than a traditional unit. For example, some storage unit facilities only charge an extra $50 or so a month for a climate controlled unit, which makes the cost well worth it for the peace of mind.
If you do not have any items that are sensitive to the weather, then you can get by with a traditional storage unit and do not have to worry about the climate controlled option. This option is best for someone who needs to store sensitive items.
Check Out All Your Options
Remember, storage facilities run specials all the time and you are bound to find a great deal on a climate controlled unit. Take some time to consider what you need to store and then look at all of your options.