When I think about climate controlled storage, I think about protecting my items in storage from the heat or cold. But it’s actually a lot more than that. Climate controlled storage does indeed keep a storage unit’s indoor temperature between 55-85°F year-round but it also maintains a consistent humidity level. Depending on where you live in the country you may experience blazing summers, bone-chilling winters or even unbearably sticky months of high humidity. This should be taken into consideration when deciding weather (excuse the pun) or not to store your items in a climate controlled storage room. One other factor to determine is the length of time you’ll be storing your possessions and during what time of year. Are you planning on storing your items in Phoenix between June and September when temps can reach over 100 degrees? If so and if you have any of the items on the list below, your best bet is to opt for climate controlled storage. If you are a New Orleanian and moving any of the items on the list below during those summer months when humidity reaches over 70% it may be time to also consider climate controlled storage.p
Electronics
Where would we be today without our precious electronics. From our cell phones to tablets and our laptops to cameras, these devices store important and precious information and help make life that much easier. We often upgrade our electronics but may still find use in these older models so we decide to hold on to them. Afterall, electronics can be pretty pricey! Putting electronics away in storage is an easy solution to declutter and keep those items for a rainy day. But, that rainy day can also cause a buildup of moisture which can be very damaging to your electronics. Extreme heat can also cause your electronics to fry, rust or have circuits short out. Opting for a climate controlled storage room is best if you plan on storing electronics.
Collectables
If you are a collector, chances are your collection is considered one of your most prized possessions. Collections are created over long periods of time and the last thing you would want to happen is for that collection to be damaged due to improper storage conditions. If you collect any of the following items, consider moving them into a climate controlled room to keep your collection intact. Antiques, artwork and bottles of wine all need to be handled delicately and stored properly. Photos, comics, and stamps can curl and stick when exposed to high temperature and humidity.
Leather
Leather items can be sensitive to humidity fluctuations and can shrink, warp, and thin out when placed in traditional storage. If you have larger leather items such as a couch, sofa or chair and live somewhere with high humidity, consider moving those items into a climate controlled storage room. This is true with smaller items as well. Leather bound books,clothing, shoes and bags can also be damaged in non climate controlled storage rooms.
Appliances
Washers and dryers, dishwashers, ovens, microwaves, and refrigerators all need climate-controlled storage in regions that experience extreme heat or cold. Climate controlled storage rooms protect electronic and mechanical parts from cracking and rusting which could cause permanent damage.
Important Documents
Throughout your lifetime, the volume of documents you accumulate grows and grows. There are birth certificates, marriage certificates, tax returns, passports, health records, certificates and other things that you need to maintain and keep safe. Storing documents such as these is best when filed in boxes or file cabinets. However, in humid conditions these documents can fade, discolor or even dissolve with exposed to moisture. The simplest and safest solution for these is climate controlled mini storage units.
(flickr: chiotsrun 48126477@N05 Robert Sheie anneslaughter /via cc)
Have you had any experiences with storing your items in climate controlled storage? Do you have any non-climate controlled storage horror stories to share? Let us know in the comments below!
