Is Climate-Controlled Storage Right for You? Everything You Need to Know
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January 30th, 2026
When you’re looking for a self-storage unit, one of the first decisions you’ll have to make is whether to go with a standard unit or a climate-controlled unit.At New Prairie Storage, we want to make sure your belongings stay in the same condition they were in when you dropped them off. But how do you know if the extra protection of climate control is worth it for your specific items?In this post, we’ll break down what climate control actually is and help you decide if you need it.
What is Climate-Controlled Storage?
Unlike standard storage units, which are subject to the rising and falling temperatures of the seasons, climate-controlled units are kept within a specific temperature range (typically between 55°F and 80°F).Many people confuse "climate control" with "heated/cooled," but at New Prairie Storage, it’s about more than just the temperature. These units are often housed inside a finished building with better insulation and air circulation, which helps protect against extreme humidity and dust.
Does the Indiana Weather Matter?
In our neck of the woods, we see it all: freezing winters, humid summers, and rainy springs. These fluctuations can be hard on sensitive materials.
- High Humidity: Can cause wood to swell, paper to curl, and mold or mildew to grow.
- Extreme Heat: Can melt plastics, degrade glues, and warp electronics.
- Extreme Cold: Can make certain materials brittle or cause them to crack.
4 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Choosing
If you aren't sure which unit to pick, ask yourself these four questions:
1. What are you storing?
Some items are simply more fragile than others. You should strongly consider climate control for:
- Wooden Furniture: Antiques, bed frames, or tables can crack or warp in the heat.
- Electronics: TVs, computers, and gaming systems have sensitive internal components.
- Media: Vinyl records, photos, and DVDs can be permanently ruined by heat.
- Clothing: Delicate fabrics like lace, leather, or fur need a stable environment.
- Business Inventory: If you’re storing pharmaceutical samples, high-end retail stock, or paper archives.
2. How long will it be in storage?
If you are moving and only need a unit for two weeks, a standard unit is likely fine. However, if you plan to store items through a full summer or winter, those seasonal temperature swings become a much bigger risk.
3. Is it irreplaceable?
If you are storing family heirlooms, wedding dresses, or one-of-a-kind collectibles, the peace of mind that comes with climate control is usually worth the small additional cost.
4. Is it clean and dry?
Because climate-controlled units are usually located inside a building, they offer an extra layer of protection against dust, pests, and debris compared to outdoor-access units.
The Bottom Line
If you’re storing items that you would be upset to see damaged by moisture or heat, climate control is the way to go. It acts as an insurance policy for your most prized possessions.Still not sure which unit size or type you need? The team at New Prairie Storage is here to help!
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