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.

How to Keep Your Bike in Top Condition in Self Storage

Biking or cycling is a fun and healthy hobby to enjoy during the warmer weather. It’s great exercise and it gets you outdoors to enjoy the beauty and serenity of nature. If you live in and around the city, biking can be a practical and money-saving way to get you to your favorite hot spots. On the other hand, for those who truly enjoy taking part in a sport, biking is more than transportation or exercise. It’s a passion. 

According to Statista, the number of cyclists/bike riders in the U.S. in 2017 was 47.5 million. As reported by the world economic forum, in America and globally, the COVID-19 pandemic suspended a number of public transport services, getting some citizens on their bikes. The end of 202o saw $6.9 billion spent on bicycles and accessories, and Q1 reports show that the trend is continuing, with Americans expected to spend $3.2 billion by year’s end.

Whatever the reason, many Americans are enjoying the trend. While you may be enjoying your bike during the warmer months, cold weather is right around the corner. It’s time to think about storage options to keep your bike free from damage or deterioration. The most practical and affordable method of keeping your bike safe and protected during the winter weather is a secure, affordable self storage facility.

 

Protect Your Bike in a Self Storage Unit

When you’re storing your bike for an extended period, look for a convenient, affordable self storage facility that has the amenities you need. Look for climate-controlled storage, a wide range of unit sizes, and plenty of security features. To get you started in the right direction read, How to Choose the Right Self Storage Facility for Your Needs as well as the following tips and suggestions.

Check the Bike Frame

Check your bike frame for cracks, and be sure that the frame is not bent. Look at the welded areas where the metal connects and examine the bottom bracket. These areas absorb the most stress when you’re biking and should be carefully checked. You wouldn’t want your bike to come apart while you’re enjoying a ride.

Clean Prior to Storing

Prior to storing your bike for an extended time, give it a thorough cleaning. Leftover dirt and grime will cause your bike frame to rust. Wipe down the frame, gears, and any other accessories on your bike. 

Remember to clean out any bags and empty and clean water bottles. You don’t want to attract pests with leftover munchies. You’ll be glad your bike is clean and ready to ride when the warm weather returns.

Inflate the Tires

Another important step that you don’t want to miss is properly inflating your tires. If possible, use a bike rack or hook to keep your tires above ground. Tires can deflate over time. If you leave the bicycle on the ground for an extended period, you may find flat spots if the tires have not been inflated during storage. The weight of the bike can warp or distort the rims and rubber of the tires. 

If you can’t use a bike rack, another good way to store your bicycle is by flipping it upside down. That way, the weight is on the handlebars and seat instead of the tires and rims.

Lubricate the Chains and Cables

Chains and cables accumulate a lot of dust and grime. To stop rust and keep your bike looking great, clean and lubricate the chains and cables. This will prevent corrosion on these sensitive components.

Remove Batteries

Any batteries should be removed prior to storing your bike. Remove batteries from backlights, headlights, and flashers. If you’re unable to remove batteries, make sure they’re fully charged before you put your bike in storage.

When It’s Time to Retrieve Your Bike From Storage

When you’re ready to take your bike out of storage, it can be tempting to get right on and take it for a spin. 

No matter where you’ve been storing your bike, it’s bound to be a little dusty. Rinse it with a hose and then lightly clean it with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Be sure to thoroughly dry it. If you find any rusty spots, use WD-40 to clean them as well as possible. You’ll probably have to replace those pieces sooner or later.

Pump some air into the tires to make sure they are properly inflated and that no holes have developed. Look at the brakes and press the brake levers to be sure the pads are making contact with the rims.

Your bike may have dried out a bit while in storage. Lubricate all of the moving parts, and rub down the seat, pedals, and handlebars.

Wrapup

Don’t ruin your bike with improper storage methods. Take the time to maintain it properly and store it away from the elements. Safe, affordable self storage is the perfect solution to keep your bike in the best possible condition so that you can enjoy it for many years to come.

Self Storage for College Students – Keep it Safe

Every summer you move all of your college student’s furniture, books, clothes, and whatever junk they’ve accumulated to your garage, attic, basement, or spare bedroom. As exciting as it is for parents to have their kids home for the summer, the job of moving them is not fun. It’s tiring and time-consuming, and it would be nice to find a solution. 

You could build a home addition; but, given the cost of education, that’s probably not your best option. Nevertheless, there actually is a great solution; a self storage unit. A safe, secure, affordable storage unit will save time, space, and your mental health. 

 

Find the Right Self Storage Facility to Keep Your Students as Safe as Their Possessions

As shocking as this might sound, college students don’t always have the best judgment, and caution isn’t a priority. In their defense, they are super busy trying to fit some studying into their active social schedule. They just don’t have time to worry about safety and security – until something is lost or stolen. In that case, there’s a slight chance they may show some concern – and then, again, maybe not. It’s probably a good idea if you “help” them choose a storage facility.

You’ll be far more conscious of the security features and amenities of the facility than your student will. Find a safe, secure facility, not far from campus. You never know when he will decide to drive to his unit at 3:00 a.m. because he needs a book that hasn’t been opened in two months. Or she wants to wear the cute outfit that is in storage because she didn’t want her roommate to “borrow” it. A safe facility is a must.

College student with box of items.

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Following are some important features to look for when you’re searching for a self storage facility. 

Look for Layers of Security

  • A facility in a safe, convenient location
  • A clean and well-maintained facility
  • Well lit property
  • Perimeter fencing
  • Gates equipped with electronic access 
  • Twenty-four-hour video surveillance
  • An indoor unit with keypad access
  • On-site and/or resident managers
  • A disc or cylinder lock that is resistant to tampering
  • Do Not share gate access codes with friends

 

Be thoughtful when choosing a storage facility, and don’t worry. There are numerous safe, clean, and secure storage facilities with plenty of amenities. You won’t have trouble finding a good one. 

 

If you’re still not convinced that self storage is your best option, here are a few reasons that might sway your decision.

Why College Students Need Self Storage

  • Space: This is a big one. Dorm rooms are cramped. Self storage is a perfect solution for extra books and off-season clothing, as well as any other strange things your student may have accumulated. We prefer not to mention them.
  • Flexibility: Most self storage facilities offer flexible month-to-month leasing. You’ll be able to rent on your schedule without the hassle of a long-term commitment. 
  • Travel or Study Abroad: The opportunity to travel or study in a foreign country is incredible, but what do you do with all of your stuff while you’re away? Self storage comes to the rescue again. You can find a unit with enough or as little space as you need to accommodate all of the dorm room furniture and belongings.
  • Security: As we’ve already mentioned, college-age students can be careless. Any items that they don’t use regularly will be far more secure in a safely locked storage unit than in their dorm, apartment, or the trunk of their car. And, as far as summer, storing furniture and valuables at a storage facility provides a level of safety not found in a locked apartment that is abandoned until school starts again. 
  • Savings: The cost and inconvenience of moving your stuff to and from home between semesters and over the summer for four – to who knows how many – years will far exceed the cost of storage.
  • Fun: Instead of spending that extra time packing up and moving stuff back and forth every summer, have some quality family time. Spend a few days doing something together because your college kid will be too busy to spend much time with you for the remainder of the summer. 

 

Takeaway

College expenses and inconveniences increase with every passing year. Why not give yourself and your student some relief when it comes to the burden of yearly packing and moving. You’ve been your child’s housekeeper, chef, chauffeur, bank, and loving parent for a long time. Do you have to be their mover and packer, too? No, you don’t. Sit back, relax, and check your self storage options.

Why You Don’t Stash Fireworks in Your Self Storage Unit

After a dismal and taxing 2020, Independence Day 2021 is going to be a momentous celebration for the USA!  Parades, picnics, and all kinds of special events will be in full force. It’s a given that people will be making memories and commemorating the joy of America’s freedoms with fireworks and sparklers. While you’re enjoying the festivities, please take safety precautions – not only with using but with storing your fireworks.

 

Family watching fireworks on 4th of July.

 

Please Don’t Store Your Fireworks in Your Storage Unit

When it’s time to pack up and store the patriotic decorations, sparklers, and fireworks for next year, be cautious. Please don’t stash your extra fireworks in your self storage unit. 

For starters, it’s against policy to store fireworks or any other type of explosive at most self storage facilities. The possibility of an explosion is too risky, not only to your personal valuables but to the possessions of other tenants. It also creates a serious hazard to any of the staff or visitors to the facility. It’s not worth risking serious injury or damage by storing fireworks or any other flammable materials in your unit.

If you’re curious, here is a complete list of items that you are not permitted to put in self storage:

  • Plants
  • Firearms and munitions
  • Food and pet food
  • Flammables, explosives, radioactive materials
  • Lead paint, asbestos, urea-formaldehyde, petroleum products, or methane
  • Medical waste
  • Stolen goods
  • Cash (not covered by insurance)

Your fireworks are considered explosives. If you have leftover fireworks that you need to store, check the following tips.

 

Tips for Storing Fireworks

These tips are not guaranteed, but they can help keep you and your family safe.

 

Tip 1: Depending on where you live, it may not be legal to store fireworks. You should check your city or county ordinances to verify that storing leftover fireworks is permitted.

Tip 2: High temperatures do not set fireworks off. It’s okay to store them in a hot, dry environment; it’s only the heat from a match or lighter that sets them off.

Tip 3: Keep those unused fireworks in a secure place away from your home and family. The best place is a locked shed that is far away from the house. And, don’t store them near ignitable, flammable materials like oil, gasoline, water heaters, or any kind of naked flames.

Tip 4: Don’t store them in cardboard boxes. Not only will these add fuel to the fire if there is a catastrophe, but cardboard will not protect fireworks from water. The best solution is a metal storage container. Be careful not to overpack the box and crush the lower layers, ruining the fireworks for later use. 

Tip 5: Do not tell your children where the fireworks are stored, and be sure that pets can’t get at them.

Tip 6: Keep a fire extinguisher near the fireworks storage area.

Tip 7: If fireworks get wet, they should be completely soaked and discarded. Fireworks cannot be dried out and used safely because they become unstable.

Tip 8: When fireworks have been stored in a manner that keeps them dry, the chemicals do not deteriorate or become unstable or dangerous. If no moisture gets into the packaging, fireworks can last 50 years and perform as if they were new. 

 

The main thing to remember is the safety of you and your family. Follow the above tips, and you shouldn’t have any problems.

 

Fun Fourth of July Facts

Now that we have the serious stuff out of the way, here is a bit of fourth of July trivia from The Old Farmer’s Almanac.

 

  • July 4, 1776: Thomas Jefferson noted in his “Weather Memorandum Book” that the weather was cloudy, the temperature 76ºF.
  • August 2, 1776:  Most people signed the Declaration of Independence. Only two men signed on July 4, 1776—John Hancock and Charles Thompson. 
  • July 4, 1826: Both John Adams and Thomas Jefferson—signers of the Declaration of Independence who each later became president—died on the 50th anniversary of the adoption of the declaration.
  • July 4, 1884: The Statue of Liberty was formally presented to the United States by the people of France.
  • July 4, 1911: It was a hot Fourth of July in New England. All-time state records were set in Nashua, New Hampshire (106°F), and Vernon, Vermont (105°F).
  • July 4, 1938: Four of July became a national holiday.

 

Have a joyful holiday, complete with fun times and treasured memories. But, be careful with those fireworks!

 

Make the Most of Your Garage Sale Whether it’s at Your Home or Your Self Storage Facility

Have you ever heard of Aaron LaPedis? Aaron’s mother left the seven-year old to tend her garage sale while she made lunch. The sale was moving along nicely, and merchandise was beginning to run low.  A very industrious little Aaron decided to take advantage of the brisk sales. He grabbed everything that he could carry from the living room — lamps, end tables, and other small decor — and sold them.

His mother, of course, was shocked to find her furniture missing, but she probably wasn’t upset for too long. Aaron eventually turned this into a profitable enterprise by flipping items that he purchased at other garage sales. You can read all about Aaron’s rise to garage sale fame in his book, “The Garage Sale Millionaire.”

If you’re looking for a way to turn your unused stuff into cash, think about having a garage sale at home or participating in a sale at a facility where you have belongings stored. A garage sale can seem a bit overwhelming, but the following tips will help you to organize, price, and advertise your items. Do it right and you can end up with an orderly home and/or self storage unit, as well as some big bucks. 

 

The following tips can work whether you’re participating in a self storage facility or residential garage sale.

 

Make the Most of Your Garage Sale

 

Get Organized

Clean

Diligently search your home room by room for items you don’t use or wear regularly. Don’t forget the garage, basement, attic, and shed. If you have a self-storage unit, make time to sort through those items as well. You’ll be surprised to find lots of things that you haven’t used in years (or maybe decades.

Sort

The next step is to sort your items into the ever-present, basic three categories: Keep, Sell, and Discard. Your goal is to sort and organize; get rid of the junk and find a permanent home for the keepers.

Set the Date

Friday, Saturday, and Sunday mornings are typically the most opportune times to hold your sale. That doesn’t mean you can’t think outside the box and consider a different time. There are dozens of Saturday morning garage sales, but how many do you see scheduled for a Tuesday morning? If you time your sale during early morning or late afternoon commuting hours, you will attract commuters, car-pooling parents, and anyone else looking to score a deal.

Stock up on Supplies

Buy basic pricing stickers and blank labels at your local office supply store or the dollar store. If you’re on a tight budget, pick up some masking tape and a permanent marker. Remember, if you’re  participating in a self-storage garage sale, you can pick up what you need in the office. 

It’s ideal to buy or borrow some stable, inexpensive shelving to display one-of-a-kind and breakable items.

Use a card table or any small table and chairs so that you have a designated place to comfortably cash people out. Another thing to consider is Venmo, a digital app that makes paying and getting paid easy and secure. If you want to use Venmo or any other digital payment app, make a note to advertise it.

Garage sale on street.

 

Price the Merchandise

Price it Right

Don’t attach sentimental value to your item, and overprice it in the process. If you’re not sure how to price an item you can ask a friend for an objective opinion, or check current value by doing an online search. A good rule of thumb is to sell items at one quarter to one third of their original value. Most people aren’t looking to spend a great deal of money at a garage sale, so try not to price anything over $100. You’re better off selling big ticket items online. Toward the end of the sale, consider posting a “half off” sign. The goal is to get rid of your stuff!

Price Visibly

Don’t make a buyer search for a tiny sticker. Use large enough tags so that potential customers can easily see a price tag. Another option is to use colored stickers and a chart that specifies cost by color. If you do this, hang several large charts in different areas to make them convenient.

Bundle Items

Offering DVDs at 4 for $5, will get more attention than pricing them at $1 each. You can also bundle things like small kitchen gadgets, tools, or holiday decorations. Get creative.

Don’t Overprice and Expect to Haggle

Buyers will walk away from overpriced items. Garage sale shoppers like to snag a deal, but they won’t haggle over unrealistic prices. You’ll lose a sale.

 

Advertise

Spread the Word

Use fliers in your neighborhood and online ads. Craigslist, Nextdoor, and Close5 are good ones. Forums like GarageSaleHunter.com and Yard Sale Search are forums directed specifically to garage sale regulars, and don’t forget about garage sales groups on Facebook. As mentioned previously, if you plan on using a digital payment app like Venmo, be sure to include that information in your ad. Allowing people to pay this way is easier for them and for you.

Use Signs

Use 15 to 20 large, brightly colored signs. They should be at least 3 feet square. Keep them simple with large arrows pointing in the direction of the sale. They should be easy to see when driving and simple enough for a first grader to read. 

 

The Big Day

Organize Your Checkout Area

There will be people who won’t use a digital payment app. Be sure to have plenty of small bills and coins on hand to make change. It’s possible that you could lose a sale over not having change readily available. Have enough plastic grocery bags and moving supply wrapping paper for fragile items. These details show your customers that you’re organized and ready to sell.

Make it Look Like a Store

Group items together: kitchen items in one area, tools in another, and clothing and accessories easy to sort through and hanging on racks. If you do have any big ticket or specialty items, place them near the street so that people know you’re selling more than mismatched dishes and outdated CDs. Reorganize throughout the day to keep things looking fresh.

Go for Appeal and Ease

Before you try to sell things, make sure they are clean and free of dust. Be sure that your shopping area doesn’t look disheveled. Borrow or rent tables so shoppers don’t have to crouch down to look at your items. If something needs batteries, insert them so that the buyer knows the items will work. Keep extension cords handy for small appliances, Christmas lights, and electronics. Place a mirror near the clothing and accessories. Making your customers feel comfortable will increase sales.

Make it a Party

Take a lesson from retail stores. They play music to encourage  customers to stay longer and spend more. Make people feel welcome with bottled water, soda, lemonade, and don’t forget the cookies. Get your shoppers in a “buying” mood. 

Stay Safe

If you’re taking part in a self storage garage sale, you won’t have to be as concerned about safety. In any situation, most shoppers are good people looking for a good deal. Nevertheless, you need to be practical and aware of what is going on around you. If you’re having a sale at home, keep your doors locked during the event. Don’t let anyone in your house use the bathroom, and don’t leave your cash or your young children unattended.

 

Wrap Up

It’s time to put these tips into action. Organization is the key so that you’re ready to go when the first customer pulls up to the curb. If you remain calm, happy, and vigilant, you’ll have a successful sale and be ready to do a victory dance at the end of the day. Remember, any left over items can go into your self-storage unit for your next sale!

 

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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