Climate-Controlled Storage vs Non-Controlled Storage for Southeast USA: What You Should Store

Being a former weekend manager for a self-storage facility, I consistently found myself recommending the use of climate-controlled units over those without climate control. This article delves into the reasons why, as well as what items are best stored in each type of unit in the Southeast USA.

The Case for Climate-Controlled Storage

One of the main advantages of climate-controlled storage units is the consistent temperature and humidity. The Southeast USA experiences wide seasonal variations, with scorching summers and mild winters. Without proper climate control, these temperature swings can cause significant damage to stored items.

This is particularly true for electronics, wood-based items, and plush textiles. For instance, extreme heat can cause plastics and electronic components to warp, while fluctuating humidity can lead to rusting, warping, and swelling of wooden furniture and floors. Soft items like blankets, feather pillows, and mattresses can also suffer from moisture, causing them to become discolored or moldy.

Dangers of Non-Climate Controlled Storage

The non-climate controlled units in the Southeast USA also pose several risks. These units can attract pests such as termites, ants, and mice, especially during the summer when insects are more active. Pests can also enter through any exterior openings in non-climate controlled units.

A case in point is a storage unit where a customer stored a wooden desk. After a year, they noticed an infestation of termites. This not only ruined their desk but also damaged nearby wooden items. Another scenario involved a customer storing a wardrobe. Eventually, the wardrobe was full of moths, which meant all clothes stored needed to be cleaned or replaced.

Items to Store in Climate-Controlled Units

Given the risks associated with non-climate controlled units, it's crucial to prioritize certain items for climate-controlled storage. This category includes:

Electronics: Computers, consoles, TVs, and other electronic devices. Wood-Based Items: Wooden furniture and flooring. Textiles: Blankets, bedspreads, curtains, and feather pillows. Artwork and Collectibles: Wooden or paper-based artworks, antiques, and collectibles. Furniture: Leather sofas, couches, and chairs.

Items Suitable for Non-Climate Controlled Units

Despite the drawbacks, some items may not require climate-controlled storage. In the Southeast USA, items that can typically withstand the seasonal variations and are less prone to damage from moisture or temperature fluctuations include:

Clothing: Noted for being durable and not water-sensitive, items like jeans, t-shirts, and shoes. Books and Documents: Although paper can still be affected by moisture, non-climate controlled storage is suitable if the items are in good condition. Metal Goods: Items like pots, pans, and tools. Hobby Items: Things like sports equipment, musical instruments, and recreational vehicles when used regularly.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the advantages of climate-controlled storage and the risks associated with non-climate controlled units is essential for making informed decisions about self-storage in the Southeast USA. By prioritizing sensitive items and keeping durable items in non-climate controlled storage, you can protect your belongings and ensure they remain in optimal condition.

Keywords: climate-controlled storage, non-climate controlled storage, southeast USA