Temperature Controlled Storage Units
When it comes to self-storage, certain items need extra protection from the elements. Items like vinyl records, antiques and artwork benefit from a temperature controlled storage unit.
Everyday items like clothes, furniture and paperwork also suit a climate controlled storage facility. This type of unit means they are in good condition and free from damage.
Here we look at 20 items that need climate controlled storage.
What is Climate Controlled Self-Storage?
Climate controlled or temperature controlled storage, are self-storage units which maintain an optimum climate. These will protect your belongings from extreme or fluctuating temperatures.
The units offset changing climate outside, keeping items consistently at a certain temperature. This helps prevent warping, discolouration, damp, mould and mildew.
Why Are Temperature Controlled Units Necessary?
Basic units can be ideal for short-term storage or for items of lower value and hardy materials. For long-term or storing valuables, climate controlled units are recommended.
These units are beneficial for many items, but for some they are necessary. Items that can be impacted or are sensitive to light and heat should be kept in this type of storage.
Utilising a storage unit with temperature control protects items from cold and damp conditions. These units also remove dust and foreign matter from the air, keeping your items fresher.
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How Much is Temperature Controlled Storage?
It costs £500-£800 to store the contents of a two-bedroom property for 6 months in self-storage. However, climate controlled units typically cost more than this.
In general, self-storage costs will vary across the country, with London costing more than the North of England or Wales. Factors such as the storage size, length of time and the amount of security provided will play a role.
Costs will also vary from company to company, so ensure you compare storage quotes costs before committing to a unit.
What Items Need Climate Control Storage?
Many items made of metal, wood, leather, wicker or upholstery are best kept in climate controlled storage units.
Whether these are personal items or stock for your business storage, units that are temperature controlled will protect them.
Below we’ve listed 20 of the items often kept in specialised storage units:
1. Electronics
Rising temperatures and high humidity cause electronics to suffer in a regular storage unit. This can lead to corrosion and damaged parts, among other issues.
2. Clothing and Fabrics
In very cold and damp conditions, clothing and fabric can suffer from mould and mildew. Regardless of the type of storage unit, these items fare better in plastic containers rather than cardboard boxes.
3. Paper, Documents and Archives
These are also items which can be susceptible to mould and mildew, in addition to fading and warping. Important documents must be protected from the elements if stored long-term.
4. Wine
Wine can be ruined if left exposed to fluctuating temperatures and humidity. Without a wine cellar, using a climate controlled unit is the best option to maintain flavour and quality.
5. Leather
Although leather is a hardy material, it’s compromised if exposed to the elements. Heat can dry out the leather and cause it to crack. Damp and cold conditions can cause warping and mildew.
6. Items Made Out of Metal, Wood, Wicker or Upholstery
Metal rusts if left in cold and damp areas, causing irreversible damage. Wood is vulnerable to warping and splitting during hot summers and fluctuating temperatures. Wicker and upholstery items are also vulnerable to the elements.
7. Mattresses and Bedding
Bedding and mattresses are especially vulnerable to damage from damp, making the items unusable. Storing them in a specialised unit ensures they are kept in good condition.
8. Media (CDs, videos, cassette tapes, DVD’s, vinyl records)
Vinyl records are vulnerable to warping and these, in addition to VHS and cassette tapes, are often difficult to replace. Keeping your media protected will ensure their longevity.
9. Artwork and Paintings
Galleries and museums store art at a particular temperature to maintain their condition. Often valuable and irreplaceable, it is recommended that artwork is kept in a climate controlled unit.
10. Collectables
Soft toys, figurines, music, war or sport memorabilia would be the best place to keep your valuable collection in good condition.
11. Antiques
Antiques are likely to need temperature-controlled storage more than any other items. These are often valuable, vulnerable to the elements and difficult, if not impossible, to replace.
12. Bicycles
Short-term, a basic storage unit may suffice for bicycles. However, storing bikes in a specialised unit long-term will avoid corrosion and rust.
13. Sports Equipment
If you are storing sports equipment long term, you’ll need a specialised unit to protect them and keep them in good working order.
14. Medical Supplies and Medication
Certain medications and supplies will need to be kept at a particular temperature. This maintains their effectiveness and ensures they are safe to use.
15. Make-Up
Whether for personal use or as business stock, keeping make-up products at an optimum temperature is essential. This ensures it is safe to use and stays in good condition.
16. Toiletries
Like medicines and make-up, certain toiletries need to be kept at a particular temperature to keep them fresh and usable.
17. Photographs
If stored incorrectly, photos can fade and become warped in fluctuating temperatures. They should be kept at a consistent moderate temperature.
18. Furniture
Both cold and heat can damage furniture. High temperatures can cause upholstery to expand and contract. With the cold, wood can contract and warp, leading to misshapen or broken items.
19. Household Appliances
Mechanical and electric parts in these devices can be sensitive to extreme temperatures. This could result in damage, corrosion and inefficiency of the product.
20. Musical Instruments
Wooden parts can be damaged and strings can snap in fluctuating temperatures. Excessive moisture can even cause mould growth inside instruments.
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Find Climate Controlled Self-Storage Near Me
Using a comparison website is an easy way to find a reputable storage company.
At Compare My Move, we have a trusted and insured network of storage companies across the UK. They offer a range of options for items that need a specialised unit.
We can match you with up to 6 local storage firms, saving up to 70% on the cost of your storage.
