What Is Climate-Controlled Storage?

As you look for storage solutions to organize your belongings, whether in between a move or for extra inventory for your business, you may come across climate-controlled units. What does climate control mean in a storage unit? Put simply, climate control units have the ability to maintain a set temperature to prevent extreme temperature fluctuations from damaging your items. In this guide, we’ll cover controlled temperature storage units, their benefits, and more, so you can determine whether a climate-controlled unit is right for you.

• What Is a Climate-Controlled Storage Unit?

• What Are the Benefits of Climate Control Units?

• How Do I Know If I Need a Storage Unit With Climate Control?

• What Items Should Be Stored in Climate-Controlled Units?

• Are Climate-Controlled Units More Expensive Than Traditional Storage Units?

• Wrapping Up: What Does Climate-Controlled Storage Unit Mean?
   

What Is a Climate-Controlled Storage Unit?

So, what is climate-controlled storage? Climate-controlled storage uses an air system that can maintain a regular temperature and humidity level inside a storage unit. When the system gets an alert that the temperature within a storage unit gets too high or too low, the air system will turn on to either heat or cool the storage unit. Most climate-controlled storage units maintain a constant temperature between 75 degrees and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Most indoor storage unit facilities, such as those at Key Storage, offer climate-controlled units for customers to choose from.
 

What Are the Benefits of Climate Control Units?

Because climate-controlled units can maintain constant temperature and humidity levels, they offer several benefits that may make them worth investing in rather than a traditional storage unit. Below are some of the reasons why you may consider a climate control unit:

• Extreme temperature protection: If you live in an area where the climate can change drastically, a climate control unit might be right for you. In some areas of the country, summer temperatures can exceed 100 degrees, while other areas can experience below-freezing temperatures in the winter. These extreme temperatures can damage certain types of items if not stored properly. Fortunately, temperature-controlled storage units can ensure your belongings are protected.

• Dust and debris protection: In a traditional storage unit, the air can remain stagnant and can have cracks and crevices that make it easy for dust and debris to collect on your items. Climate-controlled units are sealed shut and insulated, offering a strong barrier against dust and debris that can accumulate in your unit.

• Improved air quality: Because climate-controlled units continuously circulate air, the air quality in your unit will be much better compared to a traditional storage unit. With improved air quality, you can reduce odors and keep your storage unit fresh.
   

How Do I Know If I Need a Storage Unit With Climate Control?

There are many benefits to using a climate-controlled storage unit, but how do you know if you need one? If you’re stuck deciding between a traditional and climate-controlled storage unit, consider these factors:

• Long-term storage: If you’re looking for long-term storage, such as for six months or longer, you may want to consider a climate-controlled unit. This is because, over an extended period of time, temperatures and humidity can vary regardless of location and cause damage to your items.

• Temperature: One of the key factors in deciding between a climate-controlled and traditional storage unit is temperature. If you live in an area where temperatures can drop below 32 degrees Fahrenheit or go above 80 degrees Fahrenheit, it’s recommended to rent a climate-controlled storage unit.

• Humidity: Humidity can cause mildew and mold on items left in traditional storage units. If the climate you live in has high humidity, consider a climate-controlled unit to protect against moisture.

• Collectible or high-value items: If you have collectible, high-value, or sentimental items, it’s recommended to rent a climate-controlled storage unit to prevent outside factors like temperature, humidity, and dust from damaging them.
   

What Items Should Be Stored in Climate-Controlled Units?

If you’re wondering whether you need a climate-controlled storage unit, a factor to consider is the type of items you’re storing. Some items are more prone to damage from humidity or temperature fluctuations than others. With that said, here is a list of items that should be stored in a climate-controlled unit:

• Antiques: Due to their age and value, it’s important to take care of antiques by storing them in climate-controlled units to prevent humidity and moisture from damaging them.

• Artwork: High temperatures and extreme humidity can cause valuable artwork to deteriorate over time and lose its value and appearance.

• Books: Books and newspapers are easily prone to mildew, fading, and warping. If you’re storing paper-based items, including personal documents, it’s important to maintain constant temperature and humidity levels to prevent moisture from damaging your items.

• Collectibles: Any collectibles or valuable items should always be stored in climate-controlled units to ensure they maintain their quality and condition.

• Electronics: Items such as computers, home appliances, TVs, gaming consoles, cameras, and stereos can easily get damaged from moisture and extreme temperatures, which is why it’s recommended to always store them in climate-controlled units.

• Furniture: Most wood furniture and any furniture made with leather or upholstery are susceptible to damage caused by humidity and extreme temperature fluctuations. For example, furniture can collect mold in humid temperatures or crack in cold temperatures.

• Photographs: Photographs, along with other forms of media like DVDs, VHS tapes, and film, can be damaged from high heat and humidity. 
   

Are Climate-Controlled Units More Expensive Than Traditional Storage Units?

Yes, climate-controlled storage units are often more expensive than traditional storage units due to the resources, such as electricity and maintenance, needed to operate these types of storage units. However, the price of climate-controlled units varies based on several factors, such as location, inventory, and size. You can often compare the prices of several local storage facilities to find the best rate.
 

Wrapping Up: What Does Climate-Controlled Storage Unit Mean?

Climate-controlled storage units maintain a constant temperature and humidity levels to prevent moisture and extreme temperature fluctuations from damaging your items. Depending on the climate of where you live and the items you’re looking to store, you may benefit from a climate-controlled storage unit. At Key Storage, we have several storage options to choose from, with storage locations across five states. Contact us today to find a storage solution near you.