Climate controlled storage is a premium storage option that maintains a consistent temperature year-round to protect your sensitive belongings. Regular storage units serve their purpose well for many items, but some of your possessions require a more specialized environment to maintain their condition and quality.
At Morningstar Storage, we understand the importance of keeping your valuables in pristine condition. That’s why we offer climate controlled storage units at many of our locations. But how do you know if you need this specialized storage option? And what exactly should you store in these temperature-regulated units? Let’s dive in!
Important Note: While climate controlled storage provides excellent protection for your belongings, we always recommend obtaining storage insurance for additional peace of mind. Even the best storage environments can’t protect against unforeseen circumstances, so insurance offers that extra layer of protection for your valuable items.
What Is Climate Controlled Storage?
Climate controlled storage units are specially designed to maintain a consistent temperature range throughout the year, typically between 55-85 degrees Fahrenheit. Unlike standard storage units which can experience extreme temperature fluctuations based on outdoor conditions, climate controlled units ensure your belongings aren’t exposed to freezing temperatures in winter or sweltering heat in summer.
These specialized self storage units are typically located inside buildings with insulated walls, which provides additional protection from the elements. Many climate controlled facilities also offer enhanced security features, giving you extra peace of mind about the safety of your possessions.
Why Choose Climate Controlled Storage?
There are several compelling reasons to consider climate controlled storage:
Temperature Stability
The most obvious benefit is protection from extreme temperature changes that can damage sensitive items. Those freezing winter nights and blazing summer days won’t affect your belongings.
Enhanced Security
Since climate controlled units are typically inside buildings, they often come with additional security features like indoor access, which means fewer people passing by your unit.
Cleaner Environment
Indoor units generally have less dust, dirt, and debris than outdoor units, keeping your items cleaner over time.
Peace of Mind
Knowing your valuable and sentimental items are protected from extreme temperatures provides invaluable peace of mind, especially for long-term storage.
What Items Need Climate Controlled Storage?
Many items can benefit from the consistent temperatures of climate controlled storage. Here’s a comprehensive list of belongings that should definitely be stored in a climate controlled unit:
Wood Furniture
Temperature fluctuations can cause wood to expand, contract, warp, or crack. This includes:
- Antique furniture
- Wooden tables and chairs
- Bed frames and headboards
- Dressers and armoires
- Pianos and other wooden musical instruments
Electronics
Electronic items are particularly vulnerable to extreme temperatures:
- Computers and laptops
- Televisions
- Stereo equipment
- Gaming consoles
- Cameras and video equipment
Media and Collections
Your cherished collections deserve special care:
- Vinyl records
- Comic books
- Stamps and coins
- Books, especially rare or leather-bound editions
- Photographs and photo albums
- DVDs, CDs, and cassette tapes
Musical Instruments
Instruments are often made of sensitive materials that react poorly to temperature changes:
- Guitars and string instruments
- Pianos
- Brass instruments
- Woodwind instruments
- Drums with natural skins
Artwork and Crafts
Creative works often involve delicate materials:
- Paintings and prints
- Sculptures
- Handmade crafts
- Art supplies
- Canvas works
Special Fabrics and Clothing
Some textiles are especially vulnerable to damage:
- Leather items (furniture, clothing, accessories)
- Wedding dresses and formal wear
- Vintage clothing
- Fur coats
- Special occasion outfits
- Fine linens and quilts
Important Documents
Critical business storage and papers should be protected from extreme temperatures:
- Legal documents
- Tax records
- Medical records
- Business documents
- Photographs and certificates
Appliances
Major appliances often have sensitive components:
- Refrigerators
- Washing machines and dryers
- Dishwashers
- Microwaves
- Specialty kitchen appliances
Wine
Wine enthusiasts know that proper temperature is crucial:
- Wine collections
- Vintage and expensive bottles
- Long-term wine storage
Makeup and Personal Care Products
These items can melt or separate in extreme heat:
- High-end cosmetics
- Perfumes and colognes
- Specialty beauty products
- Essential oils
Seasonal Items That Benefit From Climate Control
Many seasonal items that sit in storage for months at a time will last much longer with consistent temperature protection:
Holiday Storage & Decorations
- Handmade ornaments
- Artificial Christmas trees
- Heirloom decorations
- Electrical decorations and lights
Recreational Gear
- Camping equipment
- Specialty sporting goods
- Canoes and kayaks
- Bicycles with sensitive components
How to Choose the Right Climate Controlled Storage Unit
Not sure what size or type of climate controlled unit you need? Here are some factors to consider:
Size Requirements
Take inventory of what you’ll be storing and measure larger items. Don’t forget to allow for walkways so you can access items throughout the unit. Morningstar Storage offers a variety of unit sizes to accommodate everything from a few boxes to an entire household.
Location Convenience
Choose a storage facility that’s easily accessible from your home or workplace. This is especially important if you’ll need to visit your unit frequently.
Security Features
Look for facilities that offer robust security measures:
- 24-hour video surveillance
- Electronic gate access
- Well-lit facilities
- Individual unit alarms
- On-site management
Access Hours
Make sure the facility’s access hours align with your schedule. Some climate controlled facilities may have more limited hours than traditional drive-up units.
Insurance Options
While climate control offers excellent protection, we always recommend insurance for your stored items. Ask about insurance options when you rent your unit or check with your existing homeowner’s or renter’s insurance to see if it extends to storage units. Climate control protects against temperature extremes, but insurance provides coverage against unforeseen events. Better safe than sorry!
Packing Tips for Climate Controlled Storage
Even in a climate controlled environment, proper packing is essential:
Use Quality Packing Materials
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- Sturdy boxes in various sizes
- Packing paper (avoid newspaper, which can transfer ink)
- Bubble wrap for fragile items
- Furniture covers or blankets
- Plastic bins with secure lids
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Prepare Your Items
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- Clean everything thoroughly before storing
- Disassemble furniture when possible to save space
- Remove batteries from electronics
- Use silica gel packets in boxes to absorb moisture
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Organize Strategically
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- Create an inventory of what you’re storing
- Label all boxes clearly on multiple sides
- Place frequently accessed items toward the front
- Leave aisles for access
- Don’t stack items too high
- Use pallets or shelving to keep items off the floor
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Climate Controlled Storage Costs: Is It Worth It?
Climate controlled storage typically costs about 25-35% more than standard storage units. However, when you consider the value of the items you’re protecting, this premium is often well worth the investment.
Ask yourself:
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- What would it cost to replace these items if damaged?
- Do these items have sentimental value that can’t be replaced?
- How long will items be in storage?
- What are the typical temperature extremes in your area?
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For many customers, the peace of mind alone justifies the additional cost, especially for valuable or irreplaceable items.
Finding Climate Controlled Storage Near You
Ready to protect your valuable possessions with climate controlled storage? Morningstar Storage offers premium climate controlled units at many of our storage locations, with flexible rental terms and exceptional customer service.
Our storage specialists can help you determine the right size unit for your needs and answer any questions you might have about storing specific items. We pride ourselves on clean, secure facilities and a hassle-free storage experience from move-in to move-out.
Reserve Your Climate Controlled Unit Today
Don’t leave your valuable possessions vulnerable to extreme temperatures. Contact your nearest Morningstar Storage location today to check availability of climate controlled units, or reserve online through our simple reservation system.
Our friendly storage experts are ready to help you find the perfect climate controlled solution for your storage needs. Your belongings deserve the best protection – and that’s exactly what we provide at Morningstar Storage!
