Using Heated Storage For The First Time
Climate-controlled storage is a luxury in some areas but a true necessity in others. When winter temperatures are near or below freezing for weeks on end, anything in an unheated storage area, even indoors, can suffer damage — not to mention it's uncomfortable for people trying to access that storage, too. Heated storage units keep items at a reasonable temperature and let people access the area without having to bundle up. Using heated storage for the first time, especially if you've moved from a warmer region, can hold some surprises. However, these are easy to work with.
It's Not the Same as Heating Your Home
Climate-controlled storage is storage that keeps the internal air temperatures in a less extreme range. However, it is not like heating or cooling your home. The temperatures are set to a point where items won't freeze and you won't be too uncomfortable, but you may still have to wear a jacket. So, if it feels cold to you in the unit, don't be surprised. Place a thermometer in the unit so you have an idea of what the temperature is really like. Even if it's in the 50s, your belongings will be OK.
Ask About Humidity Control
Heating usually dries out air as heaters tend to draw out moisture, much like air conditioners do. However, because the heaters won't heat to the same levels as you'd find in your home, you want to be sure of what the humidity situation is like. Ask if the facility controls humidity, too; you can also add an anti-humidity pack (you can get these at home improvement centers) to the unit. If winters are normally very dry in the region, humidity may not be an issue at all.
Watch What You Put Near Vents and Elements
Find out how the units are heated (central heat with a vent, radiant heat with wiring under the floor, etc.) and watch what you put near that heat source. The heat there will be more intense than in the rest of the unit, sort of like how music is louder at the speaker than it is across a room. If you have items that are temperature-sensitive, you may want to move those away from the heat source. If the source is a heated floor, put those items on top of less-sensitive items.
You'll get used to using heated storage quickly. In fact, you may wonder why you haven't asked for climate-controlled storage before. It's nice knowing that your belongings won't be subject to the temperature extremes outside.
If you have more questions about heated storage, contact a local storage facility.