What Is climate-controlled storage?
Climate-controlled storage is an indoor storage space that is kept at a constant temperature. It is the perfect storage option to protect valuable and environmentally-sensitive items from extreme temperatures.
Do I need a climate-controlled storage unit?
When deciding what type of storage unit you may need, ask yourself the following questions:
- What is the climate where my items will be stored?
- What items am I storing?
- How long will my items be kept in storage?
What is the climate where my items will be stored?
Here in north Texas, we experience summer temperatures of over 100 degrees and winter temperatures of 20 degrees. These extreme temperatures could damage sensitive items if kept in a conventional storage unit. As a general rule, if you don’t want your belongings enduring extreme temperatures, put them in a climate-controlled unit.
- Extreme cold puts your belongings at risk of freezing. If your items retain moisture, they can contract, expand, and crack in cold temperatures.
- Extreme humidity can turn your storage unit into a breeding ground for mold, mildew, bacteria, and unwanted small pests. Fortunately, climate-controlled storage units maintain a clean, dry environment.
What items am I storing?
If you plan to store items of high sentimental value, we strongly recommend keeping them in a climate-controlled storage unit. We’ve compiled a list of common items that need a climate-controlled environment.
- Wood – Wooden objects like tables, chairs, and stringed instruments are particularly susceptible to damage, both extreme heat and extreme cold. In the heat, wood can expand and crack; in the cold, it can contract, causing cracks when it thaws out again. Wagner Meters published a helpful piece on the way temperature impacts wood.
- Electronics – With long-term exposure to humidity or extreme cold, computers, speakers, cameras, and other electronic devices are damaged beyond use.
- Media – Extreme heat will cause DVDs, CDs, and vinyl records to lose image or sound quality. If you are storing family videos or treasured music, you will definitely need a climate-controlled storage unit.
- Wine – Wine does not age properly in extreme heat and can turn brown and cloudy. Wine Spectator has some great tips on storing wine.
- Fabric – In a humid environment, fabric-based items – like clothes, stuffed toys, and upholstered furniture – are at high risk of growing mold and mildew.
- Metal – When combined with extremely hot or cold temperatures, moist air is a recipe for rust.
- Paper – Books, newspapers, and photographs can yellow and fade in extreme temperatures and can be ruined altogether in prolonged humidity. Keep your family’s cherished photos safe in a climate-controlled storage unit. Here are some tips from Family Handyman on storing old photographs.
How long will my items be kept in storage?
Still not sure a climate-controlled unit is right for you? Consider the length of time your belongings will be in storage. If your answer is less than a month, your items will most likely be fine. However, if you need storage for longer than a month, your belongings will be at greater risk of damage from heat, cold, or humidity.
We strongly recommend climate-controlled storage if:
- You’re not sure how long your belongings will be in storage.
If you no longer have room for all your furniture or belongings but don’t know when you will have space for them again, play it safe, and use climate-controlled storage. - You need to store things year-round.
If your winter clothes and indoor Christmas decorations will spend more time in storage than out of storage, consider climate-controlled storage. These items were intended for indoor use and will sustain damage from months of exposure to heat, cold, and humidity. - Your belongings have high sentimental value.
Heirlooms and old photographs should be in climate-controlled storage, regardless of the type of item. Heirlooms are often priceless and could be destroyed by extreme temperatures.
You don’t need climate-controlled storage if:
- You are in-between homes.
If your belongings will be stored for less than a month, a regular storage unit should be fine. In fact, outdoor storage is often more convenient, as you can drive up to your unit, load your belongings, and easily transport them to their next home.
Frequently asked questions about climate-controlled storage:
- Do most storage facilities have climate-controlled storage?
No. While climate-controlled storage is common, it is usually found at facilities with interior storage units. If a storage facility only offers exterior or drive-up storage, it will typically not offer climate-controlled storage. - Do all storage unit sizes have climate control?
Climate control is not typically offered in storage units larger than 10×20, the exterior units. Storage units that are 10×15 and smaller, often found in the interior of a building, are more likely to offer climate control. At TMS Self Storage, we offer a variety of sizes and storage options to give you flexibility for storing your items. - Do climate-controlled storage units cost more?
Yes. Maintaining a consistent, year-round temperature adds cost to the rental of the storage space. - Can you control the temperature of your climate-controlled storage unit?
Breathe a sigh of relief. At TMS Self Storage, we take care of the details for you and keep the temperature consistent year-round. We keep our storage units between 55 and 85 degrees (F).
Call us today at 940.648.5000 to discuss what type of unit is best for you. Our friendly staff will help you find the perfect storage space for your belongings.