Frequently Asked Questions About Climate-Controlled Storage Units

If you’ve seen mention of climate-controlled storage units but aren’t quite sure why anyone would choose that type of storage over any other type for their valued possessions, we’re here to break it all down.

Keep reading to discover what climate-controlled storage is, why you need it for certain items, and how to find it. We promise, you’ll walk away from this blog post with a new understanding of the importance of temperature and environmental regulation for both short- and long-term storage.

What is climate-controlled storage?

That’s a great question, and one that many people assume they know the answer to – even though they might not. First things first, let’s settle on a definition for the term. Climate-controlled storage is a unit or facility that has been developed to maintain a controlled, consistent environment to avoid fluctuations in temperature. True climate-controlled storage also protects valuables from other potentially damaging elements, including water, wind, and insect-infestation.

Why do I need a climate-controlled storage unit?

If you’re one of the millions of Americans looking to store sensitive items that require exacting conditions to preserve (e.g., antiques, wine, vinyl records, family heirlooms, important documents, etc.), the environmental stability provided by climate-controlled storage is a must have. Simply: it reduces the risk of damage to your most valuable or fragile possessions. If they’re worth storing, they’re worth storing right. 

What are some surprising items that need climate-controlled storage?

While most everyone can instantly see the benefits of temperature-regulated storage for obvious items like paintings or electronics, other items that require a climate-controlled environment are a bit of a surprise. Think cosmetics, glassware, and even portable coolers. Find out more in our recent post, 10 Surprising Things That Need Climate-Controlled Storage.

What’s the worst that can happen to my belongings if I don’t choose a climate-controlled storage unit?

We get it: everyone is looking for ways to minimize costs these days. But storing your valuables properly is not where to cut corners. Damage that can occur from improperly stored items is almost limitless, but includes fading, warping, cracking, and partial or total degradation. So, the next time you’re thinking of putting mementos or anything else important in a hot attic, a bright room, or a damp basement, think again. The thrift and convenience provided by these options will never outweigh losing your prized possessions completely.

What temperature is a climate-controlled unit?

To be considered a true climate-controlled storage unit, temperatures should stay between 55- and 80-degrees Fahrenheit.

How hot do storage units get in the summer?

Some storage units are not climate controlled, which means they can easily hit higher temperatures. Self-storage units that stand apart from the facility, such as outdoor or uncovered vehicle storage, are generally unprotected from heat, cold, and high humidity and certainly not a place to store anything that can’t withstand the uncertainty of weather.

Do I only need climate-controlled storage in the summer?

Short answer: no. Longer answer: nooooo. Climate controlled storage is a year-round investment in your belongings. While it is incredibly important to protect items from the high temperatures and bright sun that most of the U.S. experiences in the summer, it’s equally important to protect them from the snow, cold and dry air of the winter months. Further, if you move your items into and out of climate-controlled storage, you’ll risk damage from temperature swings. Choose once and choose wisely.

Are there different types of climate-controlled storage units?

While some storage companies have a “one size fits all” approach to climate-controlled storage, CubeSmart’s options are a bit more sophisticated:

• Basic climate-controlled storage units are typically located within a self-storage facility and are heated in the winter and cooled in the summer.
• Air-cooled or evaporative-cooled storage units provide temperature regulation via what is typically known as “swamp cooling.” This system runs warm air through a dampened filter to cool it, and then pushes it through the storage units with a circulation pump.
• Wine storage units are precisely calibrated to provide the ideal temperature and humidity level to protect and age wines over time. 

Where can I find climate-controlled storage near me?

If you’re looking for storage that includes climate control, type in your ZIP, city, or even state to the search bar on this page for all the options available nearby. You can also call or visit any of your local CubeSmart locations to speak to a manager about your specific needs and talk through all of the choices. With 1200+ locations across the country, there’s bound to be one close by.