What You Need to Know About Storage and Heat

Self-storage can be an efficient and inexpensive way of storing your belongings while you move or renovate. Weather is something that needs to be taken into account when considering your storage options. Heat is going to be the biggest problem for your goods, so it’s important that you heat-proof them according to their type and store them in a heat-proof storage container.

Climate-Controlled Storage Unit

Heat and humidity can be the two biggest culprits that cause damage to your stored valuables, which is why a climate-controlled storage unit is a great investment. A climate-controlled unit lets you maintain a steady temperature, typically between 55 and 85 Fahrenheit, no matter how hot or cold it gets on the outside. Climate control also maintains the humidity within the storage unit. 

If your storage items include appliances, wooden furniture, leather goods, electronics, artwork, clothing, photographs, musical instruments, important documents, medical supplies and medications, or plants, you should invest in a climate-controlled storage unit because heat and humidity will cause damage to all of them. The climate-controlled units may cost a little more than the regular ones, but they are guaranteed to keep your valuables safe and protected from the elements.

Tips for Summer Storage

1. Never store any kind of liquid in your unit. Flammable liquids like kerosene, gasoline, or anything toxic is a no-brainer, but even alcohol and water should be avoided. Water can evaporate and cause the humidity levels to rise and increase the chances of mildew and mold growing in your storage unit. Not only can mildew and mold damage your belongings, but you might also be charged for their removal.
2. Remove batteries from any electronics you store in the unit. The batteries can leak and oxidize, causing rust and damaging your electronics. Plus, the leakage (known as battery acid) can burn your skin. Keep yourself and your stored items safe from battery acid by removing batteries from the equation in the first place.
3. Never store anything edible in the unit. This rule should be followed year-round, but especially in the summer because that’s when the most insects are out. Stored food can attract ants and eventually cause maggots and flies when left unattended. It’s better to keep your food storage at home where you can use it and make sure it’s safe from pests.

Storing Your Items During the Summer

If you follow these guidelines, your belongings should be safely stored even through the hot summer months. Even when you follow these tips, it doesn’t hurt to check your storage unit or storage container to make sure that everything is still in good condition. For climate-controlled storage options and more, contact us at Airtight Storage.