Safe storage in high temps

Quincy Storage Mini Storage Facility - Quincy IL

Spring and summer months make for great transition times. If you’re moving or getting organized, these are the seasons for an optimal move. But wait … before you take action, take in these thoughts from Quincy Storage & Transfer Company on packing and storing items in high heat.

How hot is it inside my storage unit?

Metal doors, concrete, and an absence of trees in the area can cause your unit to get toasty fast on a hot summer day. It’s only a matter of time before outdoor temperatures hit the 90s or higher. The inside of a non-climate-controlled storage unit can routinely hit 30 degrees above those outdoor temps (or higher).

Food items (even non-perishable items) can go bad and cause issues in storage.

Packaging can be sensitive to high temperatures and leave even non-perishable food items vulnerable to spillage and unwanted critters. Insects, rodents, mold, and more can move in quickly with the temperature rising and falling … then factor in humidity. Play it safe and don’t pack it!

It’s ok to pack the toys and basic gadgets, but take the batteries out first.

While we wouldn’t store a laptop because of the risk for damage, we would store baby toys and other low-end gadgets that require batteries. Batteries exposed to heat can bulge, melt, expand, contract, and even damage your devices. In a worst-case scenario, your whole storage unit could go up in flames! Our suggestion is to take the batteries out and just put in fresh ones when you unpack.

Flammable, hazardous, or toxic materials are not meant to be stored in hot places.

Hazardous materials cover a broad spectrum and might include grease, motor oil, fertilizer, paint, and more. Heat, oxygen, and an ignition source are a recipe for a fire in your storage unit … don’t add fuel to that equation. In addition to that, remember that packaging can fail in high temperatures. Your substance could leak, spreading over your belongings and leaving damage everywhere.

These are just a few of the more notable storage no-nos. Quincy Storage & Transfer has one of the area’s largest mini storage complexes and we’re here to help you. Call us with your questions, or set up an appointment to see a storage unit today!