How are Climate-and-Humidity-Controlled Self Storage Different

If you’re getting ready to store valuable or temperature-sensitive items, it’s a good idea to consider climate- and humidity-controlled self storage. Do you understand the difference between the two, or are you looking for advice on the benefits of these types of storage. Read the following information to learn more about humidity- and climate-controlled self storage.

Standard self storage units are sufficient for most household and business items, but your temperature-sensitive and irreplaceable goods need the added protection of climate- or humidity-controlled storage. 

If you collect valuable artwork or antiques or just want to store furniture, photographs, and electronics, you need climate-controlled self storage. The consistent temperatures of a climate-controlled storage unit will protect your belongings from damage and deterioration.

Another option to consider is humidity-controlled self storage.  Humidity-controlled storage adjusts the humidity of the air inside your space to maintain safe levels of moisture regardless of temperature fluctuations. This type of storage reduces the chances of mold, mildew, rust, and rot. 

Check out the following information so that you recognize the difference between climate- and humidity-controlled storage.

Mini storage units facility.

 

Climate- and Humidity-Controlled Storage: What’s the Difference

The phrase “climate control” is one of the most confusing subjects in the self-storage industry. Climate control should manage both temperature and humidity within a narrow range, but in some cases, only temperatures are controlled and humidity levels are ignored.

Climate-Controlled Storage

Climate-controlled storage is the more familiar of the two options. Climate-controlled storage units are typically kept between 55 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit with a base humidity of 55 percent. There are no set industry standards for climate-controlled storage. Always ask facility operators for their specific temperature and climate-control standards. They should be able to explain what they do to maintain these standards and give you this information in writing.

  • Look for a facility that offers climate monitoring. The temperature and humidity should be continually monitored to verify that settings remain consistent. Ask the manager if they use generator backup in case of a lengthy power outage.
  • It’s not completely impossible, but it is rare to find climate control in a drive-up, outdoor unit. If this type of unit is advertised as climate-controlled, it’s more likely that it is simply heated or cooled to some degree. This is not true climate control.
  • Always read your rental agreement carefully. Storage facilities aren’t responsible for the items that you store. No facility will give you a “guarantee” that truly covers your belongings, so it’s up to you to insure your stored items. If you have a standard homeowners or renters insurance policy, it’s likely that you have off-premises coverage. Talk to your insurance agent to verify your coverage. Additionally, you can check to see whether your facility offers a tenant protection plan. This is not insurance, but another layer of protection for your belongings. Ask you facility manager for details.

To prevent damage and deterioration, items that should be kept in climate controlled storage include:

  • Antiques
  • Artwork
  • Documents
  • Electronics
  • Furniture
  • Photographs

Humidity Controlled Storage

Humidity control is a type of storage where the humidity is managed with an air conditioner or dehumidifier installed in the building. Generally, the humidity levels are kept around 55 percent, however, this varies based on the facility. The property manager should be happy to provide you with details.

Items that should be stored in a humidity-controlled unit include:

  • Clothing
  • Delicate Paper Items
  • Fabrics
  • Instruments
  • Metals
  • Wine

Which Option is the Best Fit for My Needs 

Self storage facilities will frequently offer both climate- and humidity-controlled units. These spaces use high-quality HVAC systems. The units are often advertised as climate-controlled storage. It’s important to ask the manager whether or not the space is both climate- and humidity-controlled. 

Having both climate- and humidity-controlled storage prevents a variety of problems. Mold, mildew, and rotting are can be stopped. Valuable artwork, musical instruments, and wine, as well as many of your prized possessions need the protection of both climate and humidity control.

When you’re trying to decide which type of storage is best for your needs, consider several factors. Are you storing valuable or sentimental items that are expensive, or even impossible, to replace? Are you looking at short- or long-term storage/ If you’ll be using self storage for only a month or two, the extra expense of temperature and humidity control may not be worth it. It’s also important to consider the climate of your storage location. 

Summary

Now that you have a better understanding of the similarities and differences of climate- and humidity-controlled storage, you can make an informed decision. In most cases, the manager of the facility can guide you in the right direction as far as the type of storage that suits your requirements.

Why It’s a Good Idea to Keep Your Work Tools in Self Storage

Do you own a few tools for your DIY projects and household chores, or are you a general contractor with an extensive collection of construction tools? Either way, it’s important that these tools are stored properly to prevent damage. Storing tools, especially power tools, in your garage or basement is not the best option. They’ll be subject to damage from temperature changes and being knocked to the floor from their shelving or pegboards. 

More importantly, if you have young children, they seem to gravitate to the most dangerous items in your home. If they discover these curious looking implements, they’ll be immediately attracted to them. Unquestionably, tools are dangerous in the wrong hands. You need a solution for these costly items, and you need it yesterday. As noted above, your solution is not your garage or basement, nor is it a shed in the backyard. It’s a safe, secure self storage unit. Here at Trusted Self Storage, we can offer you everything from a 5 x 5 unit to a warehouse-sized space. 

Below are some tips for storing your tools to keep them organized and in prime condition.

 

The Right Way to Store Power and Hand Tools in Self Storage

Choose the Right Storage Unit

Before you do anything, give some thought to choosing the right storage facility to suit your needs. If you’re going to use your tools regularly, a convenient location is important. You also need to check that it is safe and secure and the right fit for your budget. 

To best protect your tools, they should be stored in a climate-controlled storage unit. Climate-controlled storage keeps a unit’s indoor temperature between 55° and 85° F,  and maintains a humidity level of 55%.  As a comparison, the average air conditioned home stays between 35%-45% humidity. Think of climate control as an air-conditioner, humidifier, and dehumidifier combination to sustain the proper temperature and humidity levels for specific types of items.

Before You Organize, Prepare Your Tools for Storage

  • Step 1: Check the manufacturer’s instructions – The best way to care for your tools and protect them from damage is to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. 
  • Step 2: Clean your tools – The first step to preparing your tools for self storage is cleaning them. Use a soft cloth and some oil to remove any stubborn dirt. Be sure not to use soap and water, as this can cause rust.  
  • Step 3: Use original cases – When storing your tools, store them in the cases they originally came in. These cases will have cushioning and padding to protect your tools..
  • Step 4: Check for damage – Discard any tools that are damaged beyond repair. This will help to keep your tool collection organized and prevent it from taking up unnecessary space.
  • Step 5: Power tools need extra prep – Humidity and dust can damage your power tool engines. Wipe down your tools and parts with oil to remove dirt and grime. If possible, pack these tools in their original boxes. Use protective casing over sharp edges and saws and fill any gaps in your boxes with bubble wrap or other appropriate cushioning material.
    Storage box for tools.

Organize for Convenience

  • Organize small tools in like sizes and place them in plastic bins, and place them on shelves rather than on the floor. Don’t forget to label the bins.
  • Another option for small tools that are used frequently is a pegboard. Home Depot has lots of good ideas for tool storage and organization. 
  • A pegboard also works well for long-handled tools. Tie the handles together and hang them from sturdy pegboard hooks.
  • A mobile workbench is a great idea for your large tools. You can find the plans for the one pictured above at The Spruce. It includes hanging storage for power tools and ample space for storing large tools. Build in sufficient storage so that the top remains a clear work surface.
  • Keep an inventory list of all of your tools. If you have a large number of tools in bins and boxes, make a simple map of the locations of the tools in your self storage unit. Hang it on a clipboard in your unit so that you can easily locate whatever you need.

 

In Summary

Keeping your tools in self storage not only frees up space in your garage or basement, but keeps them from curious little hands. It sounds like a lot of effort; but, in reality, isn’t it worth a few hours to keep your tools from getting lost and your children safe? Eventually, you may be able to lease a unit with electricity and set up a work area for yourself. But, that’s a conversation for another day. 

 

Benefits of Climate-Controlled Self Storage

If you collect valuable antiques and own an envious wine collection, or just want to store upholstered furniture, photographs and electronics, you need climate-controlled self storage. 

The consistent temperatures of a climate-controlled storage  unit will protect your belongings from damage and deterioration. 

High temperature and humidity levels can warp, crack or split wood or leather furniture. High humidity levels can create moisture in electronics, books and textiles, and this moisture leads to damaging mold and mildew. Fluctuating temperatures can permanently damage electronics, medical or pharmaceutical supplies and retail inventory.

Climate Controlled storage facility interior.

 

What is Climate-Controlled Storage?

Climate-controlled storage is an additional option offered by many self-storage facilities. These units maintain a consistent temperature no matter what the season. While these options may be more expensive, they can offer peace of mind when storing certain valuables.

Climate-control keeps a unit’s indoor temperature between 55° F and 85° F and maintains a humidity level of 55%. As a comparison, the average air-conditioned home stays between 35% and 45% humidity. Think of climate control as an air-conditioner, humidifier, and dehumidifier combination to maintain the proper temperature and humidity levels for specific types of items. 

Be aware that there is a difference between temperature control and climate control. Some facilities offer temperature control, which only manages the temperature. Climate control manages temperature and humidity to control moisture levels. 

Climate-controlled self storage can be a lifesaver If you’re storing in an area that has extreme heat and humidity during the summer months, extreme cold during the winter, or combinations of these conditions throughout the year. To maintain your possessions in ultimate condition, climate-controlled storage is your best bet.

 

Ask yourself the following questions to determine whether climate-controlled storage is a good fit for you.

Question 1.  Does the temperature where you’ll be storing your belongings drop below 32° F or rise above 90° F?

Question 2. Is the facility located in a climate that is subject to high humidity?

Question 3. Do any of your possessions have high monetary or sentimental value?

Question 4. Are you storing for a lengthy period of time?

Question 5. Will you be making frequent visits to your unit, in which case you’ll want comfortable conditions?

 

If you answered yes to three or more of these questions, you need climate-controlled storage to protect what is important to you.

 

What Should be Stored in Climate-Controlled Storage?

You may have inherited an antique table from a close relative. You don’t want to use it because it doesn’t blend with your contemporary look, but you certainly don’t want to dispose of it. So, you decide to store it. Against the advice of the storage facility manager, you decide to use storage that is NOT climate controlled because it is less expensive. 

A year later you decide that you want to use this beautiful piece. You go to your storage unit to retrieve it and find that there is mildew on the fabric and that the wood trim has swollen and cracked. Climate-controlled storage would have prevented the damage and maintained the original condition of this piece. You can probably locate a similar item, but you can never replace the monetary and sentimental value.

The following list will give you an idea of the types of items that should be in climate-controlled storage:

Artwork and Craft Supplies

Business Documents

Electronics

Golf Clubs 

Household Appliances

Leather and Upholstered Furniture

Metals

Musical Instruments

Photographs

Stamp, Coin, and Comic Book Collections

Wine

Wood and Antique Furniture

Vinyl Record Collections

Climate-controlled storage is slightly more expensive, but damaged or destroyed property can be far more costly. Why take the chance when you have an available solution. Talk to your storage professional for details.

 

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