Throughout life, we tend to accumulate a lot of belongings. At certain points, you may have more things than you have space for or have things that need extra care and cannot be kept tucked away in a damp basement or hot attic. Or you may be in the process of moving and need a safe place to store your possessions until you’re ready for them. This always brings up the question of where should you keep these items or how can you be sure they will remain in good condition.
While some people like to just toss their things into boxes and put them wherever they think will work best, it’s important to remember that things such as wood furniture, expensive electronics, rare artwork, and other fragile items can be damaged by temperature changes.
Even a small amount of damage can lead to thousands of dollars in repair bills later on down the road. If you’re planning on storing anything valuable, you might want to start by searching for climate-controlled storage near me.
Climate-controlled space is the best option for those looking to protect expensive items from extreme temperatures and remain safe for months or even years.
Read on to learn more about climate-controlled storage options, including which items to store and why they might be beneficial for your belongings.
What Is Climate-Controlled Storage?
Climate-controlled storage (also referred to as a temperature-controlled storage unit) is a storage facility specially designed to maintain steady temperature and humidity levels.
Typically, the temperature inside these units remains stable between 55 degrees and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. This helps to prevent mold growth and keeps your belongings well-preserved for a longer period of time.
A climate-controlled environment also helps to reduce odor caused by mildew, bacteria, and pests. This makes sense since the air is constantly circulating throughout the storage facilities, so the items inside won’t retain any odors.
This type of storage is especially useful for those who want to store their valuables for a lengthy period of time because it prevents things from deteriorating too quickly by being exposed to elements like the extreme heat and cold, dampness, dryness, and so on.
Climate-Controlled Storage vs. Normal Storage: Is There any Difference?
Most people mistakenly believe that climate-controlled storage is the same as a standard storage unit. While both types of storage offer benefits, there are several key differences between the two.
Storage Environment
The biggest difference between the two is the storage environment. A conventional storage unit has no controlled humidity levels, so mold and mildew are more likely to impact your belongings because of the moisture in the air.
On the other hand, a climate-controlled unit has a regulated environment with humidity control, so there are fewer chances of the growth of mold and mildew.
Storable Items
In a normal storage unit, you can only store items that are not prone to damage caused by temperature and humidity. For example, such units are ideal for storing holiday decorations, bikes, kayaks, small appliances, automotive spare parts, tools, and many other things.
However, in a climate-controlled storage unit, you can store any of your belongings, sturdy or fragile. From artwork and furniture to electronics and heavy machinery, this storage space has a stable environment ideal for storing any type of item.
Lighting
If you have ever been in a self-storage facility, you’ll agree that most of the units lack proper illumination. However, this is not the case with a storage container in a climate-controlled facility. The entire space is very well lit.
Security
Climate-controlled indoor storage units have tight security, so you can rest assured your belongings are always safe. Most normal storage units have limited security, and the risks of theft might be higher due to less human intervention.
At Dose Moving & Storage, our climate-controlled storage facilities have 24-hour surveillance and a night patrol person to ensure the highest safety standards for your possessions while stored with us.
Types of Climate-Controlled Storage Units
One of the most important decisions you’ll make when storing your belongings is choosing the right type of storage unit. Climate-controlled storage solutions are becoming increasingly popular, as they offer protection from the elements and regulate temperature and humidity levels. There are a few different types of climate-controlled storage units, each with its own advantages.
Below we have explained what each type of storage unit offers.
Air-Cooled Storage Units
Air-cooled storage units heavily emphasize controlling the unit’s internal temperature. For example, some products like medicines need to be stored at a temperature below a certain level. These units are suitable for storing items that need a cool environment.
What makes this unit different from a regular climate-controlled storage unit is the focus on temperature and not just humidity which is also very important in areas with a hotter climate.
Heated Storage Units
In northern states, the winters are cold and the temperature can fall down below freezing sharply. Heated storage units are perfect for keeping your fragile belongings safe when the temperature is below freezing. These storage units are equipped with powerful heaters that help maintain the optimal storage temperature.
A heated storage unit should be your choice if you want to store antiques, leather, artwork, photographs, or electronics.
Dry-Air Storage Units
Excessive humidity is a major concern when storing valuables in a storage unit as the chances of mold, mildew, and pest infestation are higher. Storage units with dry-air functionality keep the humidity at its lowest level, therefore, keeping the stored items safe.
Items like wood, leather, electronics, and photos are prone to damage caused by humidity, so storing them in a dry-air unit is the best way to protect them.
Do you need extra space storage with climate control in Arizona? Dose Moving & Storage has got you covered. Call us at {$phone} (AZ) or to find out more about our storage vaults today!
What Items Need Climate-Controlled Storage and Why?
Most items will benefit from being in a climate-controlled unit, but there are some core items that require this type of unit to ensure they remain protected.
Below we have listed some items, along with reasons why you should store them in climate-controlled units.
Furniture (Specifically Made Out of Wood)
Wooden furniture can get ruined within a few weeks of storage if the humidity is not controlled. Higher humidity leads the wood to rot, and it affects the strength and aesthetics of the furniture.
Besides wood, humidity also affects genuine and faux leather furniture and can cause the material to shrink and tear. Additionally, higher humidity is linked with corrosion, which can affect a furniture piece’s metal parts.
A climate-controlled unit keeps the humidity levels at the lowest, so the furniture remains unaffected even for months or years.
Books and Artwork
Books and artwork are precious items that can be difficult to store. Extreme fluctuations in temperature and humidity can cause irreversible damage to these precious items, resulting in warping, discoloration, and even mold growth. Climate-controlled storage units are designed to maintain a steady temperature and humidity level, protecting your books and artwork from the elements.
In addition, climate-controlled storage units are often kept at a lower temperature than standard storage units, which helps to prevent mold and mildew growth. As a result, climate-controlled storage is an ideal solution for keeping your books and artwork safe.
Musical Instruments
Musical instruments are sensitive and delicate items that require proper maintenance and care. According to storage experts, you should always store such instruments in climate-controlled units to protect them from extreme climates and temperatures.
Any wooden parts of these instruments can fall prey to humidity, while strings can snap in fluctuating temperatures if stored in a regular self-storage unit. Changes in temperature are not good for brass instruments either and dampness could lead to mold growth.
Electronic Appliances and Gadgets
Electronic appliances and gadgets such as ovens or computers tend to get affected by humidity and moisture. If stored in a normal unit, these items are susceptible to corrosion, and damaged parts, among other issues.
Whether you are relocating your house/business or just need some extra space to keep your appliances, you can count on temperature-controlled storage units.
Fabrics and Clothing
Fabrics and clothing can suffer from mildew and mold, especially in damp and cold conditions. Dry-air or humidity-controlled storage units are perfect for storing fabric and clothing, especially those made using materials like natural wool.
Note: Regardless of the type of storage unit, it is best to store fabrics and clothing in plastic containers to keep them further protected.
Leather Goods
Although leather is durable, it can warp or rot if left exposed to elements such as high humidity. Also, heat can dry out leather and can potentially cause it to crack.
A climate-controlled storage facility offers a stable environment for storing leather goods. Whether you have a collection of leather apparel or just a few pairs of leather boots you want to store with other items, temperature-controlled storage is the best place.
Sports Equipment
For the short term, a normal storage unit may suffice, but storing sports equipment in a climate-controlled unit is highly recommended to avoid damage (including rust and corrosion) in the long run.
This is because many pieces of sports equipment have elements of leather or metal that should be stored in a unit with controlled humidity.
Wine
If you are a wine connoisseur, you already know why storing wine at a controlled temperature is important. The fluctuations in temperatures and humidity can ruin the wine and its flavor.
Bedding and Mattresses
Mattresses and beddings are especially vulnerable to damage caused by damp weather. These items are prone to mold and mildew growth and cannot be stored in a regular storage unit.
A temperature-controlled unit helps protect beddings and mattresses from any damage while keeping them in good condition.
At Dose Moving & Storage, we have climate-controlled storage options that can easily accommodate your bedding and mattresses. Call us at {$phone} (AZ) or to book the best storage options available.
Antiques
Unlike modern artifacts, antiques are delicate and need temperature-controlled storage. These items are often vulnerable to elements and are difficult to replace if destroyed. Climate-controlled facilities have low humidity and the right temperature conditions suitable for storing antiques.
Medical Supplies and Equipment
Not all, but certain medications and supplies need to be kept at a particular temperature to maintain their effectiveness. Medical supplies in a liquid form in particular require an ideal temperature to ensure they are safe to use.
Household Appliances
The electrical and mechanical parts in household appliances can be sensitive to extreme temperatures, which could result in corrosion, damage, and inefficiency of the device.
Storage facilities with temperature control and humidity control limit the risk of corrosion and other damages.
Make-Up Items
Whether it is for personal use or you work in the cosmetic industry and have a large stock, you should store make-up items in a climate-controlled space. Many cosmetic products are made of perishable ingredients and need to be kept at a certain temperature. These units are ideal for storing any type of makeup items.
Benefits of Climate-Controlled Storage
Temperature-controlled storage units offer several benefits, especially if you live in a state like Arizona, where the climate consists of extreme heat and dry air. Here are some advantages of storing your belongings in a climate-controlled unit over standard storage units:
Protects Your Items From the Elements
Some items cannot withstand certain conditions, whether a drastic temperature change or inclement weather. Climate-controlled storage units offer a consistent temperature inside the unit to prevent any wear and tear or potential damage.
These units also have controlled humidity so you don’t need to worry about mold or mildew damaging your valuables.
Keeps Pests Out
Pests tend to flock toward areas that are humid and dark, like basements, attics, and outdoor storage sheds. Moreover, some items, when stored for a long time, can attract unwanted pests. These pests can ruin your belongings, especially items like clothing, furniture, artwork, and antiques.
Climate-controlled storage facilities are sealed tight and have an environment that’s not suitable for them to thrive.
Offers Defense Against Dust and Debris
A climate-controlled storage space will be properly sealed and have air regulators that filter the dust and debris out of the storage environment. Additionally, these facilities have insulated roofs and walls, providing an additional layer of protection against the natural elements.
The belongings you store in these storage containers will remain in good condition without dust and debris settling over them.
Regulates Humidity
The reason why these types of storage units are known as climate-controlled is that the storage environment is adjusted to the ideal air moisture settings. You get the ultimate peace of mind as the storage service providers ensure a perfect humidity level is maintained inside the building at all times.
Provides Cleaner Air
The air inside climate-controlled storage is not stagnant. It travels through filters and circulators to make sure it is clean and moving. Cleaner air reduces the damage caused by dust and unwanted particles while it prevents the likelihood of a foul odor developing inside the storage vault.
Top Tips for Finding the Best Climate-Controlled Temperature Units in Your Area
Searching for a public storage company near you can be tricky, especially if you don’t know what features are essential for your belongings. Here are some tips to find climate-controlled storage that works for you:
They Should Be Near Your Location
Typically, climate-controlled storage options are on the outskirts of the city because these facilities are large. However, you should ensure that the facility is at an easily commutable distance from your location.
If you live in Arizona, you can book climate-controlled storage vaults at Dose Moving & Storage. Contact us for more details regarding your storage needs.
Size of the Unit
The size of the unit affects how many items and what type of items you can store in it. Ask the service provider about the dimensions of the storage space.
Understand the Services They Offer
For storing certain items, an air-cooled storage unit is a better option. For other items, a heated space is better. Speak to the storage service provider and learn if they have specialized units with hot or cold temperatures.
Understand the Rental Policy
Most climate-controlled storage solutions are available for a monthly recurring fee. Be sure to ask questions to learn how the recurring fee policy works and if there are any hidden charges.
Store All Your Valuables With Confidence at Dose Moving & Storage
At Dose Moving & Storage, we have a state-of-the-art climate-controlled storage facility. Each of our clients will have a personal vault that measures 5x6x7 and holds approximately one bedroom’s worth of items.
Our climate-controlled facility is monitored 24 hours a day and has a night patrolman to ensure the highest safety standards for your possessions while in our care.
Whether you are planning on storing items for a short period of time or a long period of time, we will work tirelessly to ensure the safest conditions for your valuables.
Not sure if a climate-controlled storage unit is necessary for your storage needs? Call our storage experts at {$phone} (AZ) or for a free quote and for more information about our services.