1. What am I storing?

The type of items you plan to store is the most important factor. Climate-controlled units are critical for items that are sensitive to temperature fluctuations or humidity. Items that fall under this category include wooden furniture, electronics, musical instruments, artwork, photographs, important documents, antiques, and clothing. Without proper climate control, extreme temperatures and moisture can cause warping, cracking, mold, or mildew–in other words, costly damage. If your belongings hold significant monetary or sentimental value, investing in climate control is a smart choice.

2. How long will my items be in storage?

The duration of storage also impacts the need for climate control. If you’re storing items for just a few weeks or months in mild weather, a standard unit may suffice. However, if you’re planning to store belongings for an extended period, especially over multiple seasons, climate control will help protect your belongings from the fluctuations of weather. Long-term storage exposes your items to a range of environmental changes, making regulated conditions essential for their preservation.

3. What is the climate like in my area?

Savannah’s climate can pose challenges for storing certain items. High humidity levels, especially in the summer, can lead to mold, mildew, and moisture damage, while fluctuating temperatures can affect the condition of delicate belongings like wood furniture, electronics, and clothing. In this environment, a climate-controlled unit offers added protection by maintaining consistent temperature and humidity levels, ensuring your items stay safe no matter the season.

4. How valuable are my belongings?

Consider both the monetary and sentimental value of the items you’re storing. If you’re storing everyday household items, a standard unit might work just fine. However, if your belongings include heirlooms, collectibles, or high-value electronics, the cost of climate control is a worthwhile investment to ensure they remain safe. Ask yourself: how much would it cost to replace these items if they were damaged? If the answer is high, a climate-controlled unit can serve as an up-front investment that can save you from that high cost later down the road.

5. Do I need extra protection for my peace of mind?

If you’re concerned about the long-term safety of your belongings, a climate-controlled unit can provide added reassurance. Even if the items you’re storing aren’t particularly sensitive, having consistent temperature and humidity levels means you don’t have to worry about unexpected weather conditions causing damage. For many, the peace of mind that comes with knowing their belongings are safe and secure is worth the investment in climate-controlled storage.

When to Skip Climate Control

While climate-controlled units offer excellent protection, they may not always be necessary. If you’re storing durable items like plastic bins, metal tools, or outdoor furniture, a standard unit could be sufficient. Additionally, for short-term storage during mild weather, paying extra for climate control might not be necessary.

So…Do I need a climate-controlled unit?

Choosing between a climate-controlled and standard storage unit depends on your unique needs. By asking yourself these five questions, you can determine whether climate control is the right choice for protecting your belongings. If you’re storing valuable, delicate, or long-term items, or if you live in an area with extreme weather, a climate-controlled unit is an investment worth making. For more guidance on selecting the right storage solution, feel free to reach out to our team—we’re here to help you make the best decision for your storage needs!