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Climate controlled storage units are designed to maintain steady temperatures and humidity to store your items properly. The temperature will be regulated between 15 and 25 degrees. This is equivalent to the average indoor temperature.
When it comes to preventing moisture in a storage unit, on the other hand, both temperature and humidity are critical. The presence of water molecules in the air is known as humidity. More water may be held in the air at higher temperatures.
Climate controlled units are especially important in warmer parts of the country. This is because higher temperatures can lead to greater humidity. Moisture formation is considerably minimized when the temperature and humidity are kept within a constant range.
Some of the items that you may put in temperature controlled storage include the following:
- Furniture
- Electronics
- Media
- Artwork
- Important documents
- Clothing
- Photographs
- Wine
- Musical instruments
- Medical supplies and medications
- Collectables
- Household items
- Makeup and toiletries
- Bicycle with leather seats
- Sports equipment
- Mattresses
- Books and magazines
- Vinyl records
Climate controlled storage units vs temperature controlled storage units
Both temperature and humidity conditions are regulated in a climate-controlled storage unit. The tolerances for this form of control are tight, and the environment’s humidity and temperature fluctuate only a little. It is important to note that relative humidity is just as crucial as temperature when you store fragile goods like artwork and antiques.
On the other hand, temperature-controlled storage is the answer if your storage needs exceed typical storage options. Temperature is controlled within a range of several degrees inside this facility. In 90-degree weather, for example, the inside of a temperature-controlled warehouse may be kept at 80 degrees. The same can be done for the colder months.
Importance of using climate controlled storage
Climate controlled storage units come in handy in many situations. For example:
- Extreme temperatures put wood at risk. Due to expansion and contraction, it might bend and crack.
- In hot, humid environments, mould, mildew, and fungus can grow and discolour papers and fabrics.
When selecting a storage unit, you must consider the different components. While the object itself may not require climate control, it may include components that do. For example, you should consider removing the wheels and leather seats if keeping a bicycle in a non-climate-controlled storage unit.
Do you really need temperature controlled storage?
It should be obvious that temperature-controlled units have their pros and cons. Before you decide to opt for this storage, first ask yourself some questions:
- Is there anything I’m storing that will distort, discolour, or crack if the temperature changes?
- Is there extreme cold, heat, or humidity where you are storing?
It is important to note that temperature and humidity management may be necessary, depending on your location. Another factor that often comes into consideration is the time of year. Pests, mould, rust and corrosion, can all be exacerbated by high levels of humidity.
However, maintaining a steady temperature and humidity may not be important if you expect to use storage for a short amount of time, say less than three months. But, if you have sensitive items in a place that might develop humidity or temperature may be an issue, renting a climate-controlled storage room is a great option. Metal products, for example, will not rust or corrode if simply kept in a damp storage place for a few weeks.
Types of temperature controlled storage
Here are the different types of temperature-controlled storage:
- Heated Storage
Heated storage containers are a great alternative for states with cold winters. These units feature a warm environment. They will keep your belongings safe during periods of extreme cold.
- Cool Air Storage
In places where extreme heat is common for the majority of the year, air-conditioned storage is used. Water vapour is used to produce cold air in air-cooled storage. Using air-cooled storage to keep your stuff fresh is a great idea.
Advantages of temperature controlled storage
The main benefits of using temperature-controlled storage are the following:
- Protection From Extreme Temperatures
Temperatures in several sections of the country can reach above 38 degrees in the summer and below freezing in the winter. If you reside in an area with frequent temperature fluctuations, you may wish to safeguard your belongings from the destructive effects of extreme temperatures.
Due to the continual shift in temperature, sensitive goods such as antiques, wood furniture, and musical instruments may split, distort, or crack. Additionally, the highs and lows of temperature change can destroy goods such as books, fine art, and corporate records.
The temperature in climate-controlled storage containers is maintained at a constant level that is above freezing but below 30 degrees.
- Added Protection from Dust and Debris
Climate controlled storage facilities are commonly inside buildings with insulated or sealed walls, roofs, and floors. These units are less likely to be flooded or tracked in dirt.
Another advantage is that dust and debris will be less likely to enter your unit. Whatever period of time your items remain in storage, you’ll discover them exactly as you left them.
- Peace of Mind
While climate-controlled storage is more expensive than common storage, the small additional cost is outweighed by the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’ve secured your belongings from harsh weather-related conditions.
Affordable alternatives
Maybe your items do not necessarily need to be stored in temperature-controlled units, or you just cannot afford it. There are several alternatives for you.
- Charcoal bricks – Charcoal bricks absorb the moisture in the air. Simply store some charcoal bricks in a container in your storage unit and change them out regularly.
- Desiccant – This is the same ingredient found in vitamin pills. It looks like a big bag of baking soda. Still, it’s maintained in a porous bag so the material can absorb humidity.
- Vacuum-seal bags – Place objects like textiles in vacuum-seal bags and suck the air out of them before storing them to keep moisture out.
Final words
Temperature-controlled storage adds an extra layer of protection for your items at an additional fee. However, it isn’t always essential. It’s critical to determine whether your things require additional humidity or temperature control to be stored safely.
Items that are vulnerable to excessive temperature changes or moisture should be stored in climate-controlled storage units. These units are usually housed inside a structure to provide maximum protection.
This will prevent damage to your walls, floors, and furniture. When sliding heavy objects across the floor, use a sliding device such as a dolly or even just a blanket or sheet to make things easier on yourself.
Slide one end underneath the piece of furniture and then grab hold of the other end and pull away.