Temperature fluctuation is the rise and fall of temperature in a space over hours, days or seasons. In storage, the swing matters mostly for what it does to the air: as the temperature falls, relative humidity rises, and a big enough drop brings condensation. Materials also expand as they warm and shrink as they cool.
At Wigwam
Our units are clean, dry and secure, and our indoor units are purpose-built inside our buildings, out of the wind and rain. They aren’t heated or cooled, so the temperature inside follows the seasons to some degree. For most household belongings that’s no problem, and a few simple steps take care of it:
- drain washing machines and dishwashers fully, because leftover water can freeze in a cold snap and damage them;
- pack everything clean and completely dry, off the floor, with a small gap at the walls;
- if electronics have been cold, let them come up to room temperature at home before you switch them on, as moisture can form inside after a sudden change;
- look in after a hard frost or a hot week. Access is normally 6am to 10pm, seven days a week.
At Chipping Norton and Shipston-on-Stour we insulate our container units to stop condensation.
What swings do
The Canadian Conservation Institute gives the scale: in a closed space at 20°C and 50% relative humidity, a 1°C swing shifts relative humidity by about 3%, a 5°C swing by about 15%, and a drop of over 10°C brings 100% and condensation. That’s why dry packing matters more than the thermometer.
Fine art, instruments, photographs and other sensitive pieces need a little more thought. Call us on 0800 2545585 and we’ll talk through the best way to store them.
Related terms
Related questions
- Do storage units get cold in winter or hot in summer?
- Will wooden or leather furniture crack or warp in a storage unit?
- Can I store photographs in a storage unit?
Further reading
- Canadian Conservation Institute: Agent of deterioration: incorrect temperature