Do I Need Climate-Controlled Storage?
If you need more storage space in your life, there are several questions to ask yourself to get the right space for the best price. Aside from the size of the unit, location of the Stop and Stor facility, and ease of access, you'll also need to assess the types of items you need to store. This consideration is essential because some storage units’ temperatures fluctuate with the weather, while others maintain a consistent environment no matter what is going on outside.
This article explores the commonly asked question, “Do I need climate-controlled storage?” to help you choose the best storage unit to suit your needs.
Understanding Climate-Controlled Storage
Climate-controlled storage units maintain a consistent temperature and humidity level regardless of the outside weather. This is important for some items in storage but not for other things that are not sensitive to temperature and humidity.
Depending on the facility and the stored contents, the temperatures inside these units can range from 55 degrees to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. The temperature should be well above the freezing mark but below 90 degrees so that items inside don't get too cold or hot. The average humidity for a climate-controlled storage unit is 55 percent, which is pretty consistent from one storage facility to the next.
When Climate-Controlled Storage Is Necessary
All New Yorkers understand that our weather is constantly changing and that we can expect extremes with each passing season. In this part of the country, we are accustomed to sub-zero temperatures, scorching heat waves, days with high humidity, and substantial rain and snow throughout the year.
Some items that you might choose need to store away would can benefit from being in a steady and mild climate. This is especially true for items that could develop mold or mildew, expand under high heat, warp with moisture, or crack in the cold. Anything You also may want to store items with a high monetary or sentimental value in a climate-controlled facility for safekeeping.
Here is a list of items that may benefit from climate-controlled storage:
- Wood, metal, and leather furniture
- Household appliances
- Electronics
- Photographs and videos
- Vinyl records
- Antiques
- Medications and medical supplies
- Musical instruments
- Important paper documents
- High-end clothing and shoes
- Glassware
- Paintings and other types of artwork
When You Might NOT Need Climate-Controlled Storage
However, climate-controlled storage is not necessary for everything in your storage pile, and you may be able to save some money by renting a unit that does not have a climate-control feature. You may also be able to conveniently store your items closer to where you live if you don’t require a climate-controlled unit. If your storage needs are fairly standard, you may be able to get by with a more affordable unit that is still very high quality, safe, and secure.
Here are some examples of commonly stored items that do not need climate control:
- Gardening and landscaping equipment
- Miscellaneous tools
- Plastic patio furniture
- Kitchen dishes and utensils
- Motorized vehicles
You might also choose a non-climate-controlled unit if the size of unit you need is not available with temperature regulation, if you are only storing items for a very short period of time, or if the value of your items does not justify the additional cost of climate control.
The Cost of Climate-Controlled Storage
It is common for climate-controlled storage units to cost 25 to 50 percent more than standard storage units because of this extra feature that they provide. The cost of the unit will depend on its size and location as well.
Although climate-controlled storage comes with a higher price tag, it may be worth the extra money in certain situations to protect your valuables and give you peace of mind that everything is safe and protected inside the unit.
Reasons to Choose Climate-Controlled Storage
In addition to protection from extreme temperatures and humidity levels, there are other reasons why people choose climate-controlled units at our Stop and Stor locations. These units are excellent at keeping out excess moisture and have good air quality because the air is continuously circulating and not stagnant inside. With better air quality, you'll have an extra layer of protection from dirt and dust. Climate-controlled units are carefully tucked away inside buildings with effective seals, proper roofs, and insulated walls. This way, you'll keep your stored items clean and ready to use whenever you're ready to pull them out again.
Items that you plan to store for several years or for an indefinite amount of time may benefit from climate-controlled storage. This is also true for irreplaceable pieces of collections as a way of giving you peace of mind that you can preserve and pass these cherished treasures down to future generations with everything intact and looking great. If you plan to access your stored items periodically, having a climate-controlled unit might make you more comfortable while spending time inside your unit to retrieve them and later return them to their place.
Yet if none of these special circumstances apply to you, our top-notch, regular storage units are probably the best option. Remember that climate-control is just one of the many options to consider when choosing a storage unit.
Where to Find Climate-Controlled Storage
Stop and Stor is New York’s self-storage leader and has many storage options to choose from, including climate-controlled units. Other features that may be important to you include elevator access, stair access, a first-floor off-driveway location, and the opportunity to get a month or two free when you reserve a unit. We have 19 convenient locations in New York, as well as competitive prices and discounts for students, seniors, and veterans.
Stop and Stor has been family-owned and operated since 1980, and we are in the business of helping you find the perfect storage unit with the features you truly need and want. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff is ready to help you decide whether a climate-controlled unit is right for you, so contact us at 718-698-8000 or by emailing info@stopandstor.com with any questions.
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