Do I Need Climate-Controlled Storage? 50 Items That Need Climate Control
Considering if you need climate-controlled storage is the first step in ensuring you are renting the right storage unit for your needs.
However, you will also want to ask yourself what items need it, and if a climate-controlled storage unit necessary for you.
Below we will answer these questions and provide a comprehensive list of 50 items that need climate-controlled storage.
Let’s start by defining what climate-controlled storage is.
What is Climate-Controlled Storage?
Climate-controlled storage refers to units within a storage facility that are temperature regulated throughout the year by circulating heated or cooled air within the building. These are also called temperature-controlled storage units. In hot climates renters often look for air conditioned storage, while in cool climates renters often look for heated storage. Climate-controlled signifies that storage is both air conditioned and heated.
Many sensitive items can be affected by extreme temperatures and humidity, as well as temperature fluctuation. By controlling the temperature in these units, the damaging effects of heat, cold and humidity can be successfully mitigated. This makes climate-controlled storage the leading solution for the long-term storage of an array of sensitive items (check out our full list below).
Often, storage facilities are outfitted entirely with climate-controlled units or a select number of units. The availability of climate-controlled storage within a particular storage facility is largely dependent upon several factors including local environment, suitable real estate and consumer demand.
What are the Benefits of Climate-Controlled Storage?
The benefits of climate-controlled storage are clear: they help mitigate damage to your sensitive possessions and provide year-round temperature control.
Since most climate-controlled storage units are enclosed in a secure building, they also help protect visitors from the elements. Some storage facilities also offer drive-up, climate-controlled units for car-side loading and unloading.
Is Climate-Controlled Storage Necessary for Me?
While the list included above is quite comprehensive, by no means does it cover all the items that need to be stored within a climate-controlled storage unit (pharmaceuticals, important documents and artwork are a few others that come to mind).
A good rule of thumb to consider when determining if you need climate-controlled storage is to ask yourself if any of your possessions are composed of fragile materials (paper, wood, plastic and electronic components are the most common).
What Needs Climate-Controlled Storage?
A variety of sensitive items need climate-controlled storage if they are going to be stored long-term. Most sensitive items will need climate-controlled storage during short-term storage in an environment prone to frequent temperature fluctuations and high swings in humidity.
To answer exactly what needs climate-controlled storage, we have included a comprehensive list of 50 items, separated by category. Each category contains several items commonly stored in climate-controlled units, as well as several we recommend. If one of your possessions is not included on this list but is comparable to an item on the list, chances are it needs climate-controlled storage (ex: we included couches, but loveseats also need climate-controlled storage).
Motorized Vehicles
People with cars are usually the first to snag the largest drive-up, climate-controlled storage units. These can help prevent freezing temperatures, which can deplete the battery and cause plastics and rubber to become brittle. Climate-controlled storage can also help mitigate the effect of heat, which can cause paint to fade and vinyl and other plastics to melt.
- Cars
- Motorcycles
- Jet Skis
- ATVs
- Dirt Bikes
- Side-by-Sides
- Mopeds & Scooters
Collectibles
Paper-based items like sports cards and comic books can be affected by humidity. Additionally, mold and mildew can form, especially if encased in plastic. Ink is also susceptible to degradation and fading in high heat. See our individual guide for storing vinyl records.
- Sports Cards
- Comic Books
- First-Edition Books
- Magazines
- Sneakers
- Vinyl Records & CDs
- DVDs & Blu-rays
- Stamps
- Coins
Electronics & Appliances
Extreme heat can have a damaging effect on display screens, plastics and even the glue used to hold most electronics together. In addition, humidity can cause metal and other composite materials to corrode. Batteries and charging equipment also don’t fare well in extreme heat or cold.
- Televisions
- Video Game Systems
- Computers & Laptops
- Cell Phones
- Speakers & Sound Equipment
- Digital & Polaroid Cameras
- Washers & Dryers
- Ovens & Microwaves
- Refrigerators & Freezers
Furniture
Wood furniture is very sensitive to changes in temperature and excess humidity. Warping, swelling, splitting, even glue failure can occur if the furniture is not kept at moderate temperatures. Antique furniture should always kept in climate-controlled storage. See our individual guide for storing furniture long-term.
- Dressers
- Beds & Bed Frames
- Desks
- Couches
- Chairs & Recliners
- Cabinets
- Tables
- Musical Instruments
Fabrics
Fragile fabrics are temperature-sensitive and extra care should be taken when storing them. Although sturdy fabrics like denim seem like they would be less susceptible, they too can absorb moisture and be subject to mold and mildew. Learn how to store clothes in storage units like a pro.
- Clothes
- Hats
- Ties
- Linens
Motorized Equipment
Similar to how automobiles are affected during long-term storage, motorized equipment such as lawnmowers and snow blowers can be damaged by extreme temperatures and humidity. The electronic and motorized components of these pieces of equipment are susceptible to degradation and decay as well as failure.
- Lawnmowers
- Weed Eaters
- Snow Blowers
- Leaf Blowers
- Power Washers
- Generators
Recreational Equipment
That’s right, even the equipment that enables you to get down the mountain or have fun in the sun can be affected by extreme temperatures and humidity. Most recreational equipment is composed of a variety of materials that swell, fade or deteriorate when stored improperly. Kayaks are sensitive to heat and UV rays in storage: see our full kayak storage guide.
- Snowboards & Skis
- Kayaks
- Paddleboards
- Bicycles
- Tents
- Sleeping Bags
- Hiking Packs
Climate-Controlled Storage FAQS
Q: How do you store items in climate-controlled storage?
A: Items can be stored in a climate-controlled storage unit in a variety of ways. A good strategy is to avoid placing any items directly on the floor of a unit. Raising furniture, boxes and other items off the ground will maximize airflow throughout the unit. If you have a number of smaller items to store or a good number of boxes, consider purchasing shelving to outfit your storage unit. Most items should also be wrapped before being placed into long-term storage. Check out our storage unit organization guide and 10 storage unit tricks.
Q: Is climate-controlled storage more expensive?
A: In most situations, climate-controlled storage will be more expensive since it is a premium feature. However, for sensitive items and long-term storage, the extra cost is worth it to preserve your belongings. Store Space makes it easy to secure professional, affordable climate-controlled storage. We always shop our rates against the competition and consistently offer move-in promotions for new customers. These promotions usually include month-off discounts or up to a certain percentage off for several months.
Q: Is climate-controlled storage worth it?
A: Yes, in most cases. Climate-controlled storage offers advanced protection against extreme temperatures and high humidity. These factors can have a damaging effect on a variety of sensitive items. Climate-controlled storage may cost more in the short term, but it will inevitably save you money by protecting your items.
Q: Are outdoor storage units climate-controlled?
A: Some facilities are outfitted with climate-controlled, drive-up storage units. However, indoor, climate-controlled units are the most common.
Rent a Climate-Controlled Storage Unit Today!
If you’ve made up your mind to rent a climate-controlled storage unit, use our storage location finder to find Store Space near you.
In addition to climate-controlled storage, many of our storage facilities offer features like convenient drive-up storage units, indoor storage units, plus a wide range of vehicle storage options from motorcycles to fifth wheels and everything in between.
