All you need to know about climate-controlled storage units
Climate-controlled storage units are witnessing more and more demand these days. The increased demand stems from the increased storage of sensitive items in storage units. Ordinary storage units are unable to cope with fluctuations in the outdoor temperature level. This means that your sensitive items might be damaged by adverse temperature conditions.
The first question you should ask yourself is: do I need climate-controlled storage? If you wish to store temperature-sensitive items, like musical instruments, artwork, photos, or electronic appliances, it is prudent to opt for a climate-controlled unit. In a temperature-controlled unit, temperature varies between 50 and 85°C. Climate-controlled storage facilities use heating, air conditioning, ventilation systems, dehumidifiers, and thermostats to manage the climate. Skim through this article to see how climate-controlled storage helps to protect your belongings.
Climate-controlled and temperature-controlled storage units
A climate-controlled self-storage unit is placed on a surface or inside a structure where the temperature is regulated. Temperature-controlled storage units deal with only temperature fluctuations, whereas climate-controlled storage units regulate both humidity and temperature.
Climate-controlled storage units offer improved air quality and airflow. Users may perceive reduced grime and dirt on their items stored in climate-controlled units. Moreover, multiple cameras are installed in most of these facilities, which helps the user to realize improved security.
Do you wonder about the ideal humidity level for your climate-controlled storage unit? Most items store well at a relative humidity of 55%. Hence, it is prudent to store your materials around a relative humidity (RH) of 55%. If relative humidity is more than 55%, chances are that some of your stuff might sustain damage owing to increased moisture levels.
Dehumidifiers used in a storage unit can be broadly classified into two types – mechanical and desiccant. The latter type of dehumidifier is a reasonable solution that helps to save a considerable amount of energy. However, they are less efficient compared to mechanical dehumidifiers in regulating humidity-related issues.
Previously, most of the climate-controlled storage units in the US used R13 and R19 insulation. However, the new IECC regulations demand better insulation techniques to save energy.
What type of materials require climate-controlled storage?
- If you want to protect your art, you have to opt for a climate-controlled storage unit. Otherwise, artworks could undergo changes in size (either enlarging or shrinking) in extreme temperatures. Humidity can result in the growth of fungus or mildew on your favorite artwork.
- When you move your books, comics, and photographs to a storage unit, it is prudent to opt for a climate-controlled unit, as books might turn yellow if exposed to extreme temperatures. Classics written by Ernest Hemingway and George Eliot might appear to be less attractive if your books lose their color and gloss.
- Extreme temperatures can also prove to be detrimental to your electronic equipment. Humid environments can also affect the delicate components in your electronic equipment.
- Temperature fluctuations can also affect your favorite outfits. It could be distressing to see your favorite clothing discolored.
- If you are a fan of vinyl records, you should always store them vertically in a climate-controlled storage unit, because temperature fluctuations could break them in half.
- If you are a wine lover, you need to consider investing in a climate-controlled storage unit to store it properly. High humidity levels might result in a hazy, brown appearance, while, wine corks might dry out in a dehydrated environment.
- Old wooden items and musical instruments do not enjoy fluctuating temperatures. You should clean them thoroughly and buff them up with oil before storage so that they can stand the test of time.
In a nutshell, a climate-controlled unit is an excellent option for storage of temperature-sensitive belongings. Time will always try to destroy your stuff, but with proper care, you can slow down the process.
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