A Guide to Climate-Controlled Storage Units

Written by: StorageUnits.com Editorial Team - Updated: Dec 18, 2024

Climate-controlled storage protects items sensitive to extreme temperatures, weather fluctuations, and moisture. By regulating temperature and humidity levels, these units help prevent damage like cracking, warping, or deterioration. However, since the definition of climate control can vary by facility, it's important to understand exactly what you're paying for when signing an agreement. This guide covers the benefits of climate-controlled storage, why you might need it, and what to look for in a facility.

Benefits of Climate-Controlled Storage: Why You Need It

Climate-controlled storage units are set at specific temperature and humidity levels to protect your belongings from environmental damage. This is crucial when storing temperature-sensitive or irreplaceable items, including:

Antiques
Wood furniture
Musical instruments
Fine art
Electronics
Media
Important documents
Wine

Long-term exposure to extreme temperatures and humidity can lead to serious damage if items are unprotected. Your belongings may break or become unusable over time. By renting a climate-controlled unit, you’ll prevent damages such as:

Warping, melting, cracking, or expanding from the heat
Shrinking or cracking from the cold
Mold, mildew, and bacteria growth from humidity

Because climate-controlled units are located inside a storage facility, your stored items also benefit from another layer of security and protection. With sealed and insulated floors, walls, and roofs, you’ll protect your belongings from flooding, dirt, rodents, and insects.

What to Look for in a Climate-Controlled Storage Unit

While many storage facilities offer climate-controlled units, some provide more protection than others. When searching for a unit, look for the following features:

Temperature range: Climate-controlled storage units are generally between 55 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit with a base humidity of 55 percent. While these conditions suffice for most items, some require a specific setting. Look for a unit that allows you to customize the temperature and humidity levels based on the items you’re storing.
Humidity control: If you live in an area where humidity is a concern, ensure the unit you’re renting offers complete humidity regulation. Many facilities advertise their units as climate-controlled when only the temperature is regulated.
Climate monitoring: Look for a facility that offers climate monitoring services. They’ll continually monitor temperature and humidity levels to keep your items at the appropriate settings.
Air circulation: Choose a facility with constant air circulation to keep your unit fresh and prevent dust, debris, and moisture buildup.
Backup generator: Without power, storage units can’t manage temperature or humidity levels. Ask the facility if they have a backup generator system should severe weather conditions cause a long-term outage.

Things to Beware of in Climate-Controlled Storage

There are no official industry standards for climate-controlled storage, so it’s imperative to vet potential facilities before signing an agreement. During your search, keep an eye out for the following warning signs:

Verify claims. Some facilities may broadly advertise their units as climate-controlled; always verify the specific climate controls in place and get this information in writing to confirm its legitimacy.
Avoid exterior-access units. Be wary of exterior-access units that claim to be climate-controlled. They are more likely to be simply heated or cooled without proper climate regulation.
Review the rental agreement. Always read your rental agreement carefully. You’ll likely find a statement clearing the facility of responsibility for any damages. If the facility operator “guarantees” the safety of your items, get it in writing.
Purchase insurance. Consider purchasing self-storage insurance for financial protection in case of damage or theft. You can obtain insurance from the storage facility, your current insurance provider, or a third party.

How to Shop for a Climate-Controlled Storage Facility

Shopping for a climate-controlled storage facility requires much of the same research as for any other self-storage unit. You’ll want to know about the security features, occupancy, accessibility, and sanitation of the unit. Read on to learn the best questions to ask when shopping for a climate-controlled unit.

What security features does the facility have?

Along with temperature and humidity fluctuations, you’ll need to know if your belongings are safe from theft, fire, and other dangers. Ask what security measures the facility offers to protect your belongings. Questions to ask include:

Do renters need a personalized code to enter the parking lot and building?
Is there a security system in place?
Do they have 24-hour video surveillance?
Do they offer individually alarmed storage units?
Have they experienced any recent break-ins?
Are the inside and outside of the facility well-lit?
Do you have an on-site manager?
Do they have fire detection and prevention systems?

What is the occupancy rate?

Ask the facility about its occupancy rate and if there’s a waiting list for climate-controlled units. A high occupancy rate is a positive sign, especially if your area has many storage choices. You can also use the following tips to assess their honesty and sales tactics:

Call ahead to ask about vacancies and compare that to what they say during the tour.
Read online reviews to hear the experiences of other renters.
Check for complaints with the Better Business Bureau.

What level of access does the facility offer?

Not all storage facilities are accessible 24/7. Find the operating hours and determine whether limited or unlimited access works best for you. Note that facilities with restricted access may have different hours for the gate and the office. Gate hours determine when you’re allowed to visit your storage unit, while office hours are essential to speak to a manager or pay your bill in person.

Does the facility seem clean and well-maintained?

Proper sanitation is crucial to protect your possessions from pests and the elements. While online photos can give you an idea of the facility’s condition, an in-person inspection is best. Schedule a tour and note the following:

Is there a lot of trash in the parking lot, common areas, or garbage receptacles?
Do the building(s) and grounds appear well cared for, or are they dirty and rundown?
If applicable, is the vegetation well-groomed or overgrown?
Are there signs of structural damage or holes that can cause leakage and pest issues?

The level of service you receive during your visit should also be a deciding factor. If the staff doesn’t seem knowledgeable or interested in answering your questions, consider another option.