Climate Controlled Self Storage
The world of self storage offers customers many options, including climate control. Anything other than outdoor storage should provide a basic level of protection against the elements, but blocking the wind and rain is not always enough. Some customers or certain types of stored goods will require more protection, particularly when the storage facility resides in an area that experiences extremely high or low temperatures or high humidity.
The type of climate control features available vary from one storage facility to another. Some do not offer anything while others offer different levels of climate protection. This service generally costs extra. Parts of the country that reach temperatures above 90 degrees Fahrenheit may require air conditioning to protect items from problems like rotting or
. Self storage units in areas that fall below 32 degrees Fahrenheit may need to be heated to prevent cracking or warping. Places with both extremes may need climate control, including humidity protection. The longer you rent a unit, the more likely you are to need to control the unit's climate.
Types of storage facilities
Items that require climate-controlled storage
High humidity may cause items containing fabric to mold or mildew or wood items to rot. Electronics may be damaged in the heat by moisture that can accumulate internally. Food and
wine can spoil when warmed too much or frozen
. Metal can rust and plastics melt in the wrong conditions. Consider how cold, heat, moisture or lack of light could affect your items as you select a self storage facility. Check with management for tips on protecting your goods. A few items that may suffer without a carefully controlled climate follow:
Precautionary steps
Regardless of the level of protection offered by your self storage facility, you may want to consider taking a few precautions of your own. Protecting your goods from climate-related damage may ultimately protect you by inhibiting the growth of odors, bacteria, viruses and mold that could be harmful to your health. When preparing a self storage unit, consider doing the following:
Cold storage has the added protection of limiting or preventing insects from entering your self storage unit. Regardless of the temperature of your unit, check with management at the self storage facilities you are considering to see what steps they take to control and prevent insects and vermin from entering storage units.
The advice on this website is provided as a courtesy for informational purposes only. "Storage Tips" are offered as-is and no warranty is expressed or implied. For more information, see our Terms and Conditions.
