Putting your belongings into storage can be a stressful time. Not only does it take a lot of planning and organization, but you also have to hope that your possessions will be safe, secure, and in good condition when you’re ready to retrieve them.

The most important thing to remember is that not all storage units are the same. When it comes to self-storage, there are a lot of different options to choose from, including whether or not your unit is climate-controlled.

So, are climate-controlled storage units worth it, and when do you need a climate-controlled storage unit? In this guide, we’ll explain what climate-controlled storage actually is, and why you might need it for your possessions.

Are you looking for safe, secure, weatherproof storage? WheeKeep is the #1 choice for convenient self storage in Saudi Arabia. We’ll ensure your belongings are protected from the elements, whether you choose to store at your location or at our secure, guarded facility.

What is a Climate-Controlled Storage Unit?

First of all, what is a climate-controlled storage unit? It’s a type of storage unit designed to maintain consistent environmental conditions, typically regulating both temperature and humidity.

Unlike standard storage units that are exposed to fluctuating weather conditions, climate-controlled units are kept within a specific temperature range, often between 55°F and 85°F, and have controlled humidity levels.

This stable environment is essential for safe self-storage, and can help to protect items that can be damaged by extreme heat, cold, or moisture. The main benefits of climate-controlled storage units are that they keep your belongings safe and protected, regardless of the weather forecast.

When Do You Need a Climate-Controlled Storage Unit?

So, when do you need a climate-controlled storage unit? While standard storage units are ok for some items, there are certain scenarios where it’s worth investing in a climate-controlled unit, even if it increases the overall portable storage unit cost. Here’s when it’s worth discovering the benefits of climate-controlled storage units.

Extreme Climates or Seasonal Temperature Swings

If you live in an area with extreme heat, cold, or significant temperature fluctuations throughout the year, a climate-controlled storage unit is a good choice. Items like electronics, wooden furniture, vinyl records, and photos are sensitive to changes in temperature.

Exposure to freezing or scorching temperatures can cause materials to warp, crack, or break down. Think about how hot does a storage unit get in your location, or whether you regularly see below-freezing temperatures. If you do, you might need a temperature-controlled storage unit.

Long-Term Storage

If you won’t be moving out of storage unit any time soon, it might be more important to consider climate control. Over time, even moderate changes in temperature and humidity can take a toll on sensitive items.

Paper documents may yellow and degrade, fabrics can develop mold or mildew, and metals may rust. Climate-controlled units help prevent these issues, keeping your precious items safe for long-term storage.

And, if you do plan on storing your possessions for a while, make sure you understand how to store clothes in a storage unit, how to store furniture in a storage unit, and how to store a mattress in a storage unit safely for a long period of time.

Humid or Coastal Regions

When do you need a climate-controlled storage unit? Whenever you’re dealing with high levels of humidity. Learning how to protect your goods from humidity in a storage unit is essential, as excess humidity can lead to mold growth, rust, and water damage, affecting everything from clothing and books to electronics and leather goods.

In coastal regions, salt in the air can further accelerate corrosion and decay. What is a climate-controlled storage unit going to do for humidity? Climate-controlled units manage humidity levels, ensuring your stored items are shielded from excess moisture and its destructive effects.

High-Value or Sentimental Items

When storing items that are either financially valuable or irreplaceable due to sentimental reasons, it’s worth investing in a climate-controlled unit for added peace of mind. Heirlooms, antiques, collectibles, and valuable artwork can all degrade in uncontrolled environments.

Wood can crack, artwork can fade, and delicate fabrics can deteriorate. One of the benefits of climate-controlled storage units is that they can protect your precious belongings from damage.

What Needs Climate-Controlled Storage?

So, what can you store in a storage unit without climate control, and what needs climate-controlled storage? Let’s take a look at which items benefit most from climate-controlled storage conditions.

Wooden Goods

Wood is particularly vulnerable to changes in temperature and humidity. Fluctuations can cause wooden furniture, instruments, or other wooden items to expand, contract, warp, or crack. Climate-controlled storage helps maintain consistent conditions, keeping your wooden furniture and other items safe.

TVs, Computers, and Other Electronics

Electronics, including TVs, computers, cameras, and audio equipment, are sensitive to both temperature and moisture. Excess heat can damage internal components, while humidity can cause condensation, leading to rust or short circuits. Climate-controlled units provide a dry, temperature-stable environment to prevent these issues.

Clothing

Certain fabrics, especially those made of natural fibers like wool, silk, and cotton, can develop mold, mildew, or discoloration when exposed to damp or fluctuating temperatures. Climate-controlled storage keeps clothing fresh and dry, reducing the risk of damage to delicate fabrics and preventing unpleasant, musty odors.

Furniture

When do you need a climate-controlled storage unit for furniture? Whether it’s made of wood, leather, or fabric, furniture is susceptible to damage from environmental factors, and almost always benefits from climate-controlled storage.

Leather can crack or fade in high heat or humidity, while fabric-covered furniture may absorb moisture, leading to mold or mildew. Using a climate-controlled unit helps maintain the quality of your furniture, ensuring it’s still in good condition when you unpack your unit.

Artwork and Photos

Artworks, particularly those on paper or canvas, and photos are delicate and highly susceptible to damage from temperature and humidity changes. Extreme heat can cause pigments to fade, while moisture can lead to warping or mold growth. Climate control helps preserve your art’s colors and structural integrity.

Musical Instruments

Musical instruments, especially those made from wood or containing electronic components, can suffer from warping, cracking, or corrosion in fluctuating temperatures and high humidity. Violins, guitars, pianos, and brass instruments require a controlled environment to maintain their tone and condition.

Family Heirlooms and Antiques

Family heirlooms and antiques truly can’t be replaced, so it’s essential to do everything you can to protect them. A climate-controlled storage unit gives you the peace of mind that your most precious items are being stored as safely and securely as possible.

Books and Important Documents

Paper is very vulnerable to moisture and temperature changes. Humidity can cause pages to yellow or mold to grow, while heat can make paper brittle over time. Climate-controlled storage keeps your books, records, and important documents in good condition and readable.

Paint

Paint can separate, dry out, or freeze when exposed to extreme temperatures, rendering it unusable. If you need to store paint for future touch-ups or projects, climate control will help maintain its consistency and usability.

Non-Perishable Food and Drink

Although non-perishable food items like canned goods have a longer shelf life, they can still be affected by temperature changes. Heat can alter their flavor and consistency, while humidity may cause rust on cans or packaging damage. Climate control helps preserve the quality of non-perishable food and beverages.

Vinyl Records

Vinyl records are highly sensitive to heat, which can cause them to warp and become unplayable. Even minor temperature changes can affect their shape and sound quality. Climate-controlled storage is important to protect vinyl records from warping, ensuring they stay playable.

How Much is a Climate-Controlled Storage Unit, Though?

Are climate-controlled storage units worth it when you factor in the cost? It’s true that climate-controlled storage units come with a higher price tag, but just how high is it? Let’s take a look.

Factors Influencing the Cost of Climate-Controlled Storage

The cost of a climate-controlled storage unit depends on a few different factors, including your location. Storage units in major cities tend to be more expensive due to higher demand and the cost of real estate. Units in smaller towns or more remote areas may be more affordable.

Your storage unit’s size also factors in – larger storage units will naturally cost more than smaller ones. Some storage facilities also vary their rates based on your storage duration, with savings for longer-term storage compared to short storage rentals.

Typical Cost Comparison Between Climate-Controlled vs Standard Units

In Saudi Arabia, climate-controlled storage units are typically priced higher than standard units. On average, climate-controlled units can be 20% to 50% more expensive than standard units, depending on the location and facility.

A standard, medium-sized storage unit in Riyadh might cost around 500 to 600 SAR per month, while a climate-controlled unit of the same size could range from 800 to 1,000 SAR per month.

Are Climate-Controlled Storage Units Worth it?

If you’re still considering how to choose a storage unit, you might be wondering whether or not a climate-controlled storage unit is worth it. Why use self storage with climate control if it’s going to cost you that much more?

Ultimately, it depends on what you’re storing, and the storage conditions in your area. The difference in cost may seem significant, but the peace of mind and protection offered by climate-controlled storage units means that they’re almost always worth paying a bit more for.

Invest in Peace of Mind With a Climate-Controlled Storage Unit at WheeKeep!

At WheeKeep, our weatherproof storage units will keep even your most precious belongings safe from the outside conditions. Secure, climate-controlled storage is part of what makes us one of the best storage unit companies in Saudi Arabia.

How does self-storage work with WheeKeep? It couldn’t be easier! Just choose your portable storage unit and we’ll bring it to your door. Pack your items, then choose to either store it at your location or at our secure facility. If you store it with us, we’ll pick it up whenever you’re ready and take it to our premises.

Wondering what size storage unit do I need? Use our storage space calculator to figure out the perfect-sized moving storage unit, based on what you’re storing. Our helpful team is only a call away if you have any questions or concerns!

Our on site storage units aren’t just climate-controlled, they’re also stored at a facility with 24/7 CCTV monitoring, on-site guards, and a state-of-the-art alarm system. Your precious items couldn’t be in safer hands when you choose WheeKeep.

Parting Thoughts on What Needs Climate-Controlled Storage

So, when do you need a climate-controlled storage unit? The answer is almost always. Sure, climate control might cost you a bit more, but it will also protect your precious items, potentially saving you a lot more than it costs.

It’s also a good investment for your peace of mind – won’t you sleep better knowing that your possessions are safe from extreme heat or humidity? At WheeKeep, climate-control is just one of the many storage features we offer – we do everything we can to protect your belongings safe!

Call us today to learn more and discuss your storage needs, or read these guides to learn more: how to organize your storage unit, how to keep insects out of storage unit, and how to pack a self-storage unit.