When you're choosing a self-storage unit, you need to take the items you'll be storing into consideration. In addition to protecting valuable items by packing them securely and using pallets to store them off the floor in case of accidental water damage or flooding, you should also opt for a climate-controlled storage unit for certain items. Self-storage units that don't have climate control are fine for many items, but there are items that can be damaged by high levels of humidity caused by lack of air circulation and external temperature changes. Climate-controlled storage units ensure a consistent temperature and humidity level is maintained regardless of external climate fluctuations. Here are four items that benefit from climate-controlled storage:
Wooden Furniture
Exposure to moisture can cause wooden items of furniture, such as dressers, tables, and bed frames, to warp, crack and eventually rot. The lower the humidity levels in your storage unit, the better it is for your wooden furniture, and some units offer the ability to control the humidity manually to suit your specific needs.
Leather Items
Whether you're storing a leather couch or a leather jacket, don't risk temperature fluctuations ruining an expensive item. Swinging between hot and cold temperatures can cause moisture to build-up on leather, which can lead to discolouration of the fabric and mildew. Leather that's damaged in this way may also crack and will ultimately have to be replaced.
Musical Instruments
Musical instruments can appear robust, but most are actually very delicate. For example, if a piano is stored in a room with high humidity, the glued joints can be compromised and the wood can expand and bevel. Guitar strings and machine heads can rust, and woodwind instruments can expand and crack and mould can build up inside these instruments.
Household Appliances
If you're hanging on to household appliances, such as a washing machine, dishwasher or fridge, for a house move or as a backup for your current appliances, don't risk paying to store bulky items you'll never be able to use. In addition to cleaning and drying any hoses and internal parts of your appliances before storing them to prevent mould and mildew forming, you'll want to protect your appliances from extreme temperature changes and high levels of humidity, which can cause the mechanical parts, such as the motor or thermostat, to crack or rust.
These are just a few examples of items that will benefit from being stored in climate-controlled units. If you're unsure if you need your self-storage unit to have this option, talk through the items you'll be keeping in your storage unit with your chosen provider.
