Trying to understand the different types of climate-controlled storage units? Check out this self storage guide to determine the best climate-controlled storage solution for your valuable belongings.

• Climate-Controlled Storage Vs. Non Climate-Controlled Storage
• Types of Climate-Controlled Storage
• What Items Should be Kept in Climate-Controlled Storage Units?

Climate-Controlled Storage Vs. Non Climate-Controlled Storage

In addition to being its own individual amenity, climate control can also be used as an umbrella term to describe a unit’s features that work to maintain a consistent storage environment. Not all things require climate control for safe storage, but there are many items that can be damaged if a storage unit becomes too hot, too cold, or too humid. Compared to standard non climate-controlled storage units, storage units with climate control are better equipped to protect sensitive belongings.

Types of Climate-Controlled Storage

While standard climate control in self storage is the most widely available option at Extra Space Storage, we also have other types of climate-controlled storage units available at many of our locations. Learn more about each type below.

Climate-Controlled Storage

Extra Space Storage units with standard climate control typically maintain a temperature between 55 and 80 degrees to make for a more comfortable storage experience throughout the changing seasons. Not only do these storage units help protect temperature-sensitive items from extreme heat and cold, but they also provide an additional barrier from dust, debris, and pests. Although our standard climate-controlled units don’t provide humidity control, most are located inside our secure buildings, offering a humidity level comparable to the inside of your home.

Air-Cooled Storage

Air-cooled units help keep stored items protected in areas that see hot summers or even high temperature spikes. These indoor storage units operate by circulating cold air with the assistance of water vapor. While air-cooled storage is excellent for items in need of temperature regulation alone, this option may not be ideal for storing items more sensitive to humidity.

Heated Storage

Extra Space Storage also offers heated storage units, which are climate-controlled storage units equipped with indoor heating systems. These spaces are designed to maintain a consistently warm temperature to help protect sensitive items from extremely cold weather conditions. When kept in this type of temperature-controlled storage environment, items like furniture are less susceptible to issues such as warping or cracking.

Humidity-Controlled Storage

Humidity-controlled storage units are designed to regulate and maintain a precise humidity range within the storage space. If you plan on storing items that are sensitive to moisture, dehumidified storage is an especially crucial amenity, as it can help prevent common issues such as mold, mildew, and warping.

What Items Should Be Kept in Climate-Controlled Storage Units?

While most items can benefit from climate control, whether or not you need a climate-controlled storage unit depends on what you plan to store, as different items require different care in storage. Humidity can be especially harmful for items like photos, electronics, books, artwork, and more. Musical instruments, clothing, furniture, wine, documents, vinyl records, and collectibles can also be at risk of damage if exposed to various conditions. If you’re not sure which climate control storage type is best for you, our team of friendly storage experts will be happy to help you out!

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Looking for affordable self storage near you? Extra Space Storage has facilities across the U.S. with short-term and long-term options. Find climate-controlled storage today!