Climate Controlled Storage

What is climate-controlled storage?

Not all storage units are equal. With climate-controlled storage, the temperate and humidity levels are regulated to provide protection for certain items that could potentially suffer damage if the storage unit temperature becomes too warm or too cold.

This kind of storage is also known as temperature-controlled storage. Items placed in storage for a long period of time can be affected by environmental conditions, including moisture build-up and pests. Maintaining the temperature of the unit, within a stable range that is similar to the temperature found within the home, will ensure that items remain in good condition throughout the storage term.

Climate-controlled storage is more likely to be offered at indoor self storage facilities, instead of outdoor drive-up facilities.

How do climate-controlled storage units work?

They work by using the HVAC system which stands for ‘Heating, Ventilating and Air-Conditioning’. Climate-controlled storage is a combination of all of these functions.

Using the principles of fluid mechanics, thermodynamics and heat transfer, the HVAC system is a major sub-discipline of mechanical engineering. These systems are more likely to be used in large buildings. 

Why use climate-controlled storage?

Protection against the elements is a great advantage of climate-controlled storage. The units are usually built above flood level and constructed to ensure that rain and snow cannot enter. This type of unit will generally be found inside a finished building which is accessible to the public. Also referred to as indoor units.

Regulating the climate means your storage items will not be exposed to extreme levels of temperature or humidity. Your possessions could be at risk from mould, bacterial growth, rust, corrosion or a pest invasion. To stop this happening, the storage unit temperature should be maintained at a range of 55 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit or 12 to 26 degrees Celsius. This is the best way to make sure items in storage remain undamaged.

What items benefit from climate-controlled storage?

Any items that are sensitive to rapid changes in temperature and fluctuating levels of humidity will benefit from climate-controlled storage.

Items that benefit include:

• Furniture
• Musical instruments
• Wine
• Antiques
• Electrical goods
• Photographs
• Documents
• Artwork

Certain materials are more vulnerable to varying conditions, for example wood will expand in humid conditions and contract when humidity levels are very low. Fabrics, such as wool and leather are prone to mould when humidity levels are high. Plus, the smell of mould is notoriously hard to eliminate. Items of high sentimental and historical value including artwork, documents and photographs should always be in a climate-controlled storage to preserve their condition and value.

What to consider when using a climate-controlled storage facility?

Ensure that the company you use has a proper climate-controlled system in place and regularly checks the temperature and levels of humidity.

Self storage costs may be a little higher when using this specialist form of storage. However, that extra cost is justified if it means your prized possessions are looked after and emerge from storage without any damage.