If you are trying to decide whether to opt for traditional storage or climate-controlled storage for your belongings, then the below blog can help you.
A slightly more expensive option than standard storage facilities, climate-controlled storage can be a good idea if you are storing certain items that are more susceptible to external factors such as temperature and humidity.
Not to mention the fact that a climate-controlled storage unit can help to minimize the risk of pests ruining your prized possessions.
Still not convinced that climate-controlled storage is the right storage solution for you?
Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about climate-controlled storage and how it can effectively store your items in both the short and long term.
What is climate-controlled storage?
A good place to start, climate-controlled storage, otherwise known as temperature-controlled storage, is a type of storage unit that is specifically designed to maintain steady temperatures and humidity levels.
Typically, a climate-controlled storage unit will be kept at between 55-85 degrees Fahrenheit, although this is dependent on what exactly is being stored within it.
The beauty of a climate-controlled storage facility is that it offers optimal temperatures and humidity levels simultaneously, ensuring that moisture cannot form and that your items stay protected at all times.
What items need climate-controlled storage?
If you can, you should place all your items in a climate-controlled storage facility as every material, fabric, and liquid can benefit from the correct temperature and humidity levels.
However, there are certain items that really need climate-controlled storage to remain intact. These include:
- Any furniture that is made of or contains wood, metal, wicker, leather, or upholstery
- Any other items that are made out of the materials listed above, such as clothing
- Electronics, such as TVs and sound systems
- Media items such as DVDs, CDs, and vinyl records
- Artwork
- Photographs
- Important documents
- Musical instruments
- Aging wine
- Antiques
- Collectibles
- Medications and any medical supplies
- Makeup and other toiletries
- Household appliances
- Sports equipment
- Bicycles that have leather seats
Although this may seem like quite an extensive list, when you start to think about what items can be affected by moisture, you soon realize just how many there are.
If you are in doubt about whether an item needs climate-controlled storage, simply ask yourself the below questions:
- Is it susceptible to mold or mildew?
- Can it become cracked or warped?
- Could it become discolored?
- Would high temperatures cause it to expand or contract?
- Is it designed to be stored at a certain temperature like wine or paintings?
- Is it sensitive to heat or cold?
- Is it valuable?
- Does it hold sentimental value?
If you answered yes to one or more of the above, then your item should be stored in a climate-controlled storage facility.
How effective are climate-controlled facilities?
If you are going to pay more to keep your items in a climate-controlled storage facility, you want some reassurances about their effectiveness.
Climate-controlled storage units are designed to maintain a cool and dry environment by keeping a constant optimal temperature, conditions that are incredibly difficult to replicate at home.
Climate controlled-storage also:
Reduces damp
Fluctuating temperatures can encourage condensation as the cooling air drops and causes moisture. This can cause dampness, especially in areas with poor ventilation. However, by placing your items in climate-controlled storage, the risk of damp developing is greatly diminished.
Damp is particularly problematic for suede and leather items as well as ones made from fur.
Reduces dust
Although you may not think that dust is a big deal, not only does the accumulation of dust mean you have to thoroughly clean your items when you take them out, but it can also exacerbate any allergies you or your family suffer with.
The beauty of a climate-controlled unit is that it has to be sealed completely, and therefore, dust cannot get into the area.
Reduces pest infestation
Moths, mice, and dust mites are all common pests that are just ready and waiting to pounce on your stored items. However, as mentioned above, climate-controlled storage units are sealed off from the world, minimizing the risk of a pest invasion.
More choice
If you have personal items that need to be stored at different temperatures, you will be happy to hear that climate-controlled storage facilities are often operated per unit, meaning that you can choose the ideal temperature for your specific items. For example, you can find climate-controlled storage facilities that are specifically designed to house aging wine.
How to choose a climate-controlled storage facility?
As with purchasing anything, if you want to get a good service, you need to choose a reputable and trusted provider.
Make sure to look for a climate-controlled storage facility that offers both choice and quality in their service, as well as one that uses the latest security systems, technology, and tools currently available.
It can be a good idea to read online reviews about your preferred facility to see the experiences that previous customers have had. If you cannot find any reviews, this is a strong indicator that all is not right with this provider.
Finally, take into consideration your budget. If you are on a tight budget, your best bet is to look for a storage facility that suits your explicit needs and no more. As you would expect, the bigger the storage unit, the more expensive it will be. Storage facilities in big cities also tend to more costly.
Whether you are moving house and need to store your belongings during the transitional period or you are looking for long-term storage for your most treasured belongings, or you are looking to keep your families heirlooms after a family member has died, then the right climate-controlled storage facility will provide you with what you need, both in terms of peace of mind and optimal conditions for your belongings.
StorageArea.com offers the largest database of storage facilities in the United States, with an extensive selection of climate-controlled units. Simply add your location and find a wide range of climate-controlled storage options in your area.