When You Need Humidity Control in Self Storage Units
Humidity is a major concern for storage units. It can lead to issues like mold, mildew and pest infestations, which can damage items sitting in storage. A humidity-controlled storage unit prevents moisture buildup, protecting any stored valuables.
What Is Humidity-Controlled Storage?
Humidity-controlled storage units safeguard people’s belongings from high humidity and extreme temperatures. They typically use a heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) system and a commercial-grade dehumidifier to control temperature and humidity levels.
Humidity-controlled storage units are usually kept between 55 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit with approximately 50% to 55% humidity. Keeping the temperature and humidity within a stable range minimizes the risk of moisture buildup. Dehumidifiers also pull any excess moisture from the air to reduce humidity.
What Items Need Humidity-Controlled Storage?
Virtually any item can benefit from climate-controlled storage. Some of the most common items that need humidity-controlled storage include:
- Furniture: Leather and fabric furniture pieces are susceptible to mold growth if they’re left in damp conditions for an extended period. Humidity can also cause wood furniture to crack and rot.
- Electronics: Electronic connections may rust in humid conditions. Rust reduces connectivity, making the device more likely to malfunction or fail.
- Artwork: Moisture and mold can damage paintings, causing them to yellow and deteriorate.
- Antiques: Antiques may crack, rust or warp in humid conditions, depending on the material.
- Documents and photographs: Moisture can cause paper and photographs to warp or even disintegrate in storage.
- Musical instruments: Since musical instruments are often with wood or electronic components, storing them in humid conditions can cause significant damage.
- Clothing: Clothing is vulnerable to mold and mildew growth, which can cause discoloration and unpleasant odors.
Where Is Humidity-Controlled Storage Necessary?
Humidity-controlled storage is a must for geographic locations that experience extreme temperature fluctuations and high humidity. These conditions are common in the mid-Atlantic and Northeast, where the climate is seasonal and often humid, especially during the summer months.
How to Control Humidity in a Storage Unit
Using an HVAC system and dehumidifiers is the best way to control humidity in a storage unit. These systems create an ideal indoor environment for keeping stored valuables in good condition over an extended period.
You can also stay on top of storage unit humidity levels by regularly checking for leaks and fixing any cracks in the walls or ceilings right away. Even small cracks can widen over time, giving way to damage-causing leaks.
All stored items should be completely dry and packaged properly to prevent humidity damage. This may include wrapping furniture and mattresses in furniture blankets and hanging clothing in wardrobe boxes.
Self-Storage Investing With Investment Real Estate, LLC
If you’re looking to buy or sell a self-storage unit with humidity control, IRE can help. We are a leading self-storage real estate agency serving the mid-Atlantic and Northeastern states. Our talented brokers know the ins and outs of local markets and provide expert support that leads to lucrative deals.
Browse our self-storage listings or contact an IRE broker today!