Climate-controlled storage units keep your possessions protected from the elements. They also cost a little more than traditional storage units – which is why many people decide against them. However, there are plenty of possessions that should be stored in a controlled storage unit. And some items need to be stored in a controlled environment. Today, we’re going to list some of the surprising items that need to be stored in climate-controlled storage units:
Antique Wooden Furniture
We’ll start with an obvious one: leaving antique wooden furniture exposed to the elements can wreak havoc on its structure. The humidity and temperature fluctuations could warp and degrade even the most well-constructed pieces of antique furniture. Whether it’s an antique piano or a family heirloom dresser, antique wooden furniture should always be stored in climate-controlled storage units.
Consumer Electronics
Electronic equipment is one of the most important things to store in climate-controlled storage units. If you have video equipment, audio equipment, computers, computer parts, or any other types of electronics equipment, then climate-controlled storage units prevent moisture buildup. Even small amounts of moisture can short circuit your electronics when you turn them back on. When stored for long periods of time, rusting can also be a concern.
Clothing
You can get away with storing clothing in a traditional self-storage unit. But if you want your clothes to look, feel, and fit the same when they come out, then climate-controlled storage units are your best option. This is particularly important for furs and delicate pieces of clothing.
Media Storage Equipment
If you’re storing software, videos, DVDs, CDs, photographs, vinyl records, cassettes, 8 track tapes, or any other type of media storage, then climate-controlled storage units can protect your valuable collections against the elements.
Pharmaceutical and Medical Supplies
Pharmaceutical and medical supplies can degrade when stored outside a normal temperature range. Check your prescription bottle for storage instructions and you’ll typically see a recommended temperature range.
Anything Collectible
Whether it’s a classic car, an antique piece of furniture, vintage artwork, or even a bottle of wine, collectible items should always be stored in climate-controlled storage. You’ve held onto those valuable items for a long time – why risk them in inferior storage units?
Important Paperwork
Tax files and other important paperwork should be carefully stored in climate-controlled storage units. Otherwise, they could degrade and become illegible.
Leather Furniture
We’ve talked about antique wooden furniture needing to be carefully stored, but it’s equally important to store leather furniture in a climate-controlled environment. Leather is particularly sensitive to humidity fluctuations and can shrink, warp, and thin out when placed in traditional storage.
Are Climate-Controlled Storage Units Worth the Extra Price?
If you’re trying to decide whether or not you need a climate-controlled storage unit, you should first consider your location. Do you get cold winters and hot summers in your region? Summers in Alabama are known for being hot and humid, which isn’t favorable for items listed above. When considering your location, you should look for environmental fluctuations. Unless the temperature and humidity stay consistent all year from January to December, you should probably err on the side of caution and choose a climate-controlled storage unit.
Can’t decide what to move and what to store? Professional movers in Alabama like Lambert Transfer & Storage, Inc. offer competitively priced climate-controlled storage space. Protect your possessions against unpredictable weather and avoid a nasty surprise when you open your storage unit!
Photo by Lauren Fleischmann on Unsplash
