The type of goods you send to a self-storage facility determines whether you need climate-controlled storage. Renting climate-controlled storage like the one offered by Broncos Parkways Self Storage will cost you more, and there must be enough justification for the excess spending. Fluctuating temperature and humidity can harm some sensitive and high-value items as well as furniture and clothes if stored in a normal environment for long. Mold and mildew are the biggest threat that thrives in a humid climate and can damage the stored items. Therefore, if you are planning to send some delicate and sensitive items to a self-storage facility, then you must look for a climate-controlled environment where the goods remain intact.
Harsh temperatures that border on the extremes can harm the goods in storage which is why most storage companies have introduced some temperature and humidity control measures within the storage facilities. Therefore, finding a facility with the features should not be a problem. However, you must clearly understand whether the facility has a temperature controlled or climate-controlled environment that impacts the goods in different ways. Often, we speak about the two in the same breath, but these are quite different with respect to the functional aspects. You must understand what you can achieve through temperature control and climate control.
Temperature control vs. climate control
When the temperature is very hot too much heat can cause drying of some items as well as overheating of chemicals. Similarly, extremely cold temperatures freeze many items, and the formation of frost can damage it. If there is too much moisture or humidity in the environment, it can damage many types of goods while too less humidity can cause curling and deformity of items.
Temperature controlled environments aim at maintaining the moderate temperature in a specific area with the help of HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning) systems that maintains a steady temperature throughout. It is possible to set the temperature at the desired level by adjusting the temperature control as done by air conditioners. However, there is no control over the humidity of the place.
Climate controlled environments go a step ahead from controlling the temperature only and use de-humidifiers to control the humidity too. Using it alongside the HVAC system helps to create a controlled climate where both the temperature and humidity are at an optimal level. Maintaining a humidity level of 55% is ideal for preserving all kinds of goods without any damage no matter what type of weather it may be outside.
When do you need a climate-controlled environment?
If you are storing items like pianos, sensitive electronic items or some valuable painting, then moisture and excessive temperature could damage these. Similarly, leaving upholstered furniture in a high humid environment for long or even storing clothes, books, and magazines, mattresses can lead to mold and mildew growth that damages it. Many other items in your list could be sensitive to climatic conditions, and for such items, you must choose a climate-controlled environment for self-storage and not merely a temperature-controlled facility. Climate controlled environments maintain a temperature around 80 oF to 90oF consistently with humidity around 55% that offers complete protection to all kinds of items.
Now, let us look at the other benefits derived from climate-controlled environments.
Moderate temperature protects the stored items
Maintaining optimal temperature consistently throughout the storage facility protects the items from extreme temperature exposure and keeps it in good shape no matter how long you store it. When the temperatures are soaring outside, or it is snowing heavily, the storage facility maintains a comfortable temperature that prevents the stored items from damage. Temperature fluctuations are also bad, and the system takes care to maintain a consistent temperature. Wooden items and antiques can warp or split due to extreme temperatures that do not happen in a temperature-controlled storage facility.
Great air quality
A standard storage unit allows outside air to enter freely into the storage space, but in a climate-controlled environment the outside air enters the facility only through the systems that maintain its optimal temperature and humidity. The controlled air keeps circulating within the area that remains sealed from all sides and does not allow entry of outside air freely. The air quality is high, and there is no need to refresh it with fresh air that automatically happens through the system. The constant flow of clean air ensures safe storage of electronics and documents.
Prevent dust and debris accumulation
Installation of climate-controlled units entails insulating the area including the walls and roof as well as floors of the building that remains securely sealed to prevent the exchange of air from any place other than the mechanical system. The closed environment prevents the entry of dust and collection of debris while maintaining a clean environment. There are no chances of rodents or insects finding its way into space. The items stored in such storages remain clean and free from dust for as many days as you store it.
Controlled humidity offers better protection
A climate-controlled storage space does much more than controlling the temperature only because it controls the humidity too. The natural fluctuations in the outside environment can play havoc on the stored items when left exposed for many months. The controlled climatic conditions of optimal temperature and humidity help to avoid the drastic fluctuations of the natural climate and ensure that the stored items remain unaffected. The change of seasons that trigger dramatic changes to humidity have no effect on the goods stored in a climate-controlled environment. Spring and fall seasons that create a damp environment can be bad for goods if stored in a standard environment without any controls.
The benefits of controlled climatic conditions are so many that customers who care for their belongings would not mind paying something extra that goes a long way to protect the stored items. The peace of mind that you enjoy is truly priceless when you know that the items which are so dear to you remain well protected from the harsh climatic conditions.
I’m glad that you explained why I must choose a climate-controlled storage unit. Since I’ll be moving out of my old apartment in a few days, I’m thinking of finding a facility where I can put my temperature-sensitive belongings such as mattresses, paintings, and books. Wow, I had no idea that the area has the right temperature that offers complete protection to all kinds of items.
You made a good point that humidity should also be one of the factors to consider when looking for a temperature-controlled storage unit. I noticed earlier this month that some of the comics in my collection have started getting some discoloration which made me very worried about them. Even though I don’t intend on selling them someday, I think it would still be worthwhile to preserve them as much as possible as part of my dedication as a fan of such comic books.