Going on Vacation? 4 Reasons Why You Need a Climate Controlled Storage Unit
The size of storage units in America more than tripled between 2015 and 2018. As of 2018, there were over 68 million square feet in storage.
It’s no surprise that Americans need storage for their belongings. From antiques to collectibles, everything needs to go somewhere.
What if the home you’ve chosen for your possessions is harming them? Not all storage facilities are created equally. In most cases, your best option will be climate-controlled storage.
Keep reading to learn why you need climate-controlled storage units.
1. Temperature Control
In the summertime, regular storage units trap heat, which warps wooden furniture and musical instruments. The heat also damages electronics and disks like CDs and vinyl records.
Especially if it was a humid summer, the leftover moisture freezes in the winter. Wooden furniture can crack or splinter, and your delicate belongings will be more prone to shattering.
By renting a temperature-controlled storage unit, you won’t have to worry about extreme temperatures. You can maintain a constant, mild temperature year-round.
2. Humidity Control
Without climate-controlled storage units, your belongings are prone to mold and mildew. Mildew growth can stain and ruin clothing.
With the changing seasons, a regular storage unit is damp in the spring and fall. Antique furniture, especially wooden belongings, will warp and rot. The excess moisture can also damage electrical wires.
If you live in a dry climate, you need to actually increase moisture in your storage units. Dry air will cause wood to dry out and crack.
The appropriate humidity level for climate-controlled storage is 55%.
3. Clean Air
Without air circulation, your storage unit will begin to smell like an attic or basement. This musty smell will permeate fabric, which is especially troubling for antique linens that should not be washed.
Climate-controlled storage facilities ensure there’s always clean air circulating. You won’t have to open it up and air it out because the air is being cleaned for you.
To get the most out of your storage, be sure to prep your items first. Vacuum, polish, dust, and/or drain your belongings before storage.
4. Extra Layer of Protection
Instead of having garage-style doors on the outside of the building, climate-controlled storage units are accessible through the inside of the building.
With outdoor units, the wind can blow in rain or dust between the cracks. They are also more prone to flooding and rodent infestation because of their location.
Indoor storage facilities not only protect your items from the elements better, but they are better at warding off theft. To access an indoor storage unit, you need a key to access the building and another to open your unit.
If you’re wondering, “How do I know which storage units near me are appropriate for my needs?”, check out this guide.
Protect Your Items With Climate-Controlled Storage Units
Feel confident locking up your belongings with climate-controlled storage units.
What are some things that you keep in your storage unit? Let us know in the comments below!
