Have you ever had your stored photographs curled or faded due to heat or moisture? Has your furniture in your damp basement begun to rot? You might need climate control if you wish to ensure the protection of such possessions. Climate controlled storage can be effective for homeowners or businesses in preserving photographs, videotapes, documents, electronic equipment, certain food items, furniture, antiques, clothing, art, and other items of value. If you live or work in conditions of high heat, moisture, or cold, your possessions may face accelerated deterioration. Climate controlled storage may be especially useful for you.

What is climate control?

Climate controlled storage consists of storage within an enclosed space that is protected from dust and moisture, where the temperature is consistently maintained between 55 degrees and 80 degrees Fahrenheit, through the use of central or individual air-conditioning. This greatly reduces the risk of your possessions developing microbial or fungal growth, insect infestations, deformation or cracking; discoloration and corrosion; etc. It also prevents dust and water contamination in case of sandstorms or floods.

Location and climate controlled storage

Climate controlled storage may be an over-investment in cases where simpler and less expensive solutions would suffice. Climate controlled storage is most useful in regions that experience both hot and cold conditions, which are above the threshold of tolerance. In locations where temperatures regularly go above 90 degrees Fahrenheit, but do not go below freezing point, air conditioning is effective. In locations that have sub-zero winters, but relatively cool summers, heated storage is sufficient.

Storage commodities

Storage warehouse hallway with doorsYou also need to consider what you want to store and preserve before you look for a climate controlled storage facility. The most common household items that are stored in climate controlled storage facilities include electronics, fine art such as paintings and sculptures, photographs, wooden and metal articles, furniture, and clothing. Businesses generally store seasonal goods, paperwork and documents, consumer electronic goods, medical supplies and samples, construction provisions, prepared foods and ingredients, tools, and lubricants.

Another point you need to consider, is the ease of access to the storage system. You must also assess how much you want to store in it, how long you spend in the space, how often you wish to access it along with a suitable temperature range for the storage system.

Commodity value

Finally, the value of the goods you intend to store will justify the cost of choosing climate controlled storage facilities. If the items you wish to store have sentimental, scientific, historical, or cultural value, or are irreplaceable in any other sense, then it may be well worthwhile to choose climate-controlled storage. If the goods you store can be replaced and are covered by insurance, you may want to consider the costs of climate-controlled storage versus the convenience it offers. Opting for normal storage is also a viable solution in such cases as climate-controlled storage solutions cost more than normal storage methods.