Finding the right storage unit in Sydney has more to do than finding the right size. You’ll be surprised by the high-tech advancements that are available to you. From 24/7 CCTV security monitoring to climate control, you may find yourself wondering, is it really worth the extra cost?
Well, it depends on your needs. If you’re storing everyday items like boxes and garden equipment, a conventional unit will likely do the job. But if your belongings include furniture, electronics, artwork or important documents, it’s well worth it to rent a climate-controlled storage unit.
At Holloway Removals and Storage, we get this question constantly. So, here’s a breakdown of the difference between climate-controlled (CC) unit and conventional storage units. We’ll show you when and why you would need climate-controlled storage vs standard storage units.
What is a climate controlled storage unit?
A climate controlled storage unit keeps a stable temperature and, most importantly, regulates the humidity levels in your unit (typically at more below 50% humidity). This is the key difference from a standard storage unit.
Moisture can be the kiss of death when storing certain items (more on that later), so having a storage unit with controlled humidity levels ensures your belongings will remain in good condition.
It’s also important to note that air-conditioned units and climate-controlled units are not the same thing! While both manage the temperature of the unit, only a climate-controlled unit will regulate the humidity levels. An air-conditioned unit cannot keep humidity in check year-round.
The benefits of climate-controlled units in Sydney
Regulated temperate and humidity
Sydney’s weather can swing dramatically between humid summers and cold, dry winters. Regardless of the weather outside, a climate controlled storage unit lets you rest easily. It protects your belongings from both extreme cold and heat, keeping a consistent temperature and low humidity level throughout the year.
A more comfortable environment for yourself
If you need to access your storage unit regularly, a climate controlled space is much more comfortable to work in than a conventional unit. Imagine having to move things in and out of the unit – whether organising your belongings or getting inventory for a small business order – and you have to deal with the extreme heat or cold while you do so. It’s absolutely miserable.
By renting a CC unit, you really are giving yourself a gift. Cool temperatures and low humidity levels make working in a CC unit infinitely more comfortable.
What items should be stored in a Climate Controlled Storage Unit?
For a lot of common items, a standard storage unit would work fine. But for the following types of items, having a climate-controlled unit is a must.
Furniture
Bare timber and upholstered furniture should always be stored in a climate controlled storage unit. Excess moisture can cause mould to grow on fabric and leather, and can cause wooden furniture to warp, crack, and rot. The same goes with anything else fabric-related like mattresses, pillows, blankets and other soft furnishings.
Electronics
Humidity does no favours when storing electronics, especially pieces like computers, monitors, and televisions. The internal parts can begin to rust or short-circuit. Other plug-in appliances like microwaves, rice cookers, and air fryers are less sensitive, but also benefit from being stored in a low-humidity environment.
Artwork
No surprise here, but art and moisture are not friends. Humidity can cause canvases to warp, frames to mould and rot, and pain to flake. You’ve probably spent a pretty penny amassing your art collection. It would be a shame to lose it because you didn’t want to invest in a proper, climate controlled storage unit to protect your art.
Photographs and paper documents
For many people, physical photographs (especially older prints passed down from one generation to the next) are irreplaceable. Exposure to moisture can cause them to stick together, warp, and deteriorate rapidly. Such treasured collections must be stored in a climate controlled storage unit.
And it’s not just photos that require protection. If you plan to store any sort of paper documents—tax records, deeds, lease agreements, or employee records—you should keep them in a good CC storage unit.
Wine
You’d be surprised how many people use a storage unit to store their wine collection that takes up too much space in their home. Consistent temperature prevents wine from aging too quickly. Meanwhile, low humidity ensures the wine corks don’t dry out and disintegrate (which would expose the wine to air and ruin it).
Business inventory
Many small business owners in Sydney opt to store excess inventory in a commercial storage unit so as not to use up precious real estate at their actual business. Most inventory—from clothing and skincare to toys and electronics—benefit from being stored in a climate controlled storage unit in Sydney. It greatly reduces the risk of mould, rust and damage to your stock.
When is a conventional storage unit enough?
Not everything needs climate control. Conventional storage units in Sydney are a cost-effective option for:
- Vehicles, tools, and outdoor equipment
- Garden furniture and sports gear
- Non-sensitive boxes and general household items
- Short-term storage when weather conditions are mild.
If in doubt, think about how much it would cost to replace your belongings versus the little extra you’d pay for climate control. In most cases involving anything sentimental or valuable, climate control is worth it.
Store Your Belongings the Right Way… with Holloway
Holloway Storage offers climate controlled storage units in Sydney with a convenient difference: we bring the unit to you. Fill it at your own pace, then we’ll transport it to our secure, climate controlled facility. No heavy lifting. No van hire. No rushing.
Contact us today for a quote on climate controlled storage units in Sydney.
FAQs: Climate Controlled vs Conventional Storage
How much more does a climate controlled storage unit cost in Sydney?
Pricing varies by provider and unit size, but it typically costs anywhere from 35%-50% more than a standard unit. At Holloway Storage, we’re happy to provide a storage quote based on your specific needs.
Is climate controlled storage worth it for short-term rentals?
Even for short-term storage, climate control is recommended if you’re storing fragile and valuable items like furniture, electronics, documents, or artwork. A week of exposure to high humidity can cause lasting damage.
Do I need climate controlled storage for furniture in Sydney?
Yes, especially for timber or upholstered pieces. Sydney’s humidity in summer is enough to cause warping and mould growth in a standard unit.
What is the difference between air-conditioned and climate controlled storage?
Air conditioning manages temperature only. Climate control manages both temperature and humidity. For most items beyond casual household items, climate controlled storage is the safer choice.
