Residential Storage

Climate controlled storage units are temperature-regulated rental spaces that range from 5’x5′ closet-sized units to 20’x40′ spaces where homeowners and businesses store furniture, documents, electronics, and sensitive belongings. U•STORE•IT offers climate controlled units with consistent indoor conditions, while pricing varies by size and location. Our facilities provide 24/7 surveillance, password-controlled entry gates, and protection from temperature extremes.

How Climate Controlled Storage Units Work

Climate controlled storage units work by maintaining more stable indoor temperatures compared to standard units, helping protect items sensitive to heat, cold, and humidity fluctuations. The rental process requires you to select an appropriate unit size, sign a month-to-month agreement, receive your access code, and move items using provided carts and dollies. Most renters access their climate controlled units during extended hours (7 AM to 9 PM daily) using personalized gate codes and their own padlocks.

Types of Items Suited for Climate Controlled Storage

Climate controlled storage units help protect electronics, wood furniture, photographs, documents, musical instruments, and antiques from Alberta’s extreme temperature swings between -30°C winters and +30°C summers. Indoor climate controlled units provide maximum weather protection through interior hallway access and stable conditions year-round. These units suit items stored long-term or belongings where temperature consistency matters for preservation.

Cost Comparison: Climate Controlled vs Standard Storage Units

Climate controlled storage units typically cost more than standard units due to the temperature regulation systems, though exact pricing varies by location and unit size. The cost-effectiveness becomes apparent when valuable or temperature-sensitive items enter the comparison – protecting irreplaceable photographs, important documents, or quality furniture from damage often justifies the additional monthly investment in climate control.

Hidden Costs to Consider

Climate controlled storage rental fees are straightforward, but your budget should include additional expenses such as padlocks ($15-$50), moving supplies ($50-$200 depending on storage needs), truck rental if you don’t use our free service ($50-$150), and optional insurance ($15-$50 monthly). Some facilities charge administration fees or require deposits, though U•STORE•IT eliminates these extra charges.

Climate Controlled Storage Unit Size Guide

The right climate controlled unit size prevents overpaying for unused space or cramming belongings unsafely. Our storage specialists can help determine appropriate sizing based on your specific items:

Small Climate Controlled Units (5’x5′ to 5’x10′)

These closet to walk-in closet sized units hold approximately 10-25 boxes plus small furniture pieces. Small climate controlled units store business documents, photograph collections, musical instruments, or electronics perfectly. A 5’x5′ unit equals a hall closet while a 5’x10′ unit matches a large walk-in closet.

Medium Climate Controlled Units (10’x10′ to 10’x20′)

These units compare to a small bedroom (10’x10′) or one-car garage (10’x20′) and accommodate furniture including wood pieces, antiques, upholstered items, and boxes of sensitive materials. A 10’x15′ unit provides room for substantial household contents with navigation space.

Large Climate Controlled Units (10’x30′ to 20’x40′)

These larger spaces store complete household contents, business inventory, or document archives requiring temperature protection. Available sizes accommodate extensive storage needs while maintaining consistent environmental conditions throughout the unit.

Common Mistakes When Using Climate Controlled Storage

First-time renters sometimes assume climate control eliminates all preparation needs and skip proper packing. Items still require protection from dust and minor humidity fluctuations. Other mistakes include storing prohibited items (fuel, perishables, plants), using inadequate locks, and forgetting to protect furniture with blankets or covers. You can avoid these problems by planning box placement, creating an inventory list, and leaving a center aisle for access.

Climate Controlled Storage Alternatives and When to Use Them

You should consider whether alternatives better suit your needs before renting climate controlled storage. Standard storage units cost less but expose belongings to temperature fluctuations. Home storage seems free but lacks security and proper conditions. Climate controlled units remain the optimal choice when you store valuable items, temperature-sensitive belongings, or items requiring long-term protection from Alberta’s weather extremes.

Preparing Items for Climate Controlled Storage

Proper preparation extends stored belongings’ life even in climate controlled conditions. You must clean and dry all items thoroughly because moisture can still cause issues in enclosed spaces. You should disassemble furniture to save space, then store hardware in labeled bags taped to furniture pieces. Mirrors and artwork need moving blanket wrapping, mattresses require protective bags, and boxes containing fabrics or papers benefit from moisture absorbers. Electronics perform best in original packaging or anti-static bubble wrap.

Insurance Options for Climate Controlled Storage Units

Climate controlled facilities maintain stable conditions and security, but insurance protects against unforeseen events like fire, flooding, or theft. Homeowner’s insurance sometimes extends coverage to storage units, though limits typically cap at 10% of policy value. Dedicated storage insurance costs as low as $7 monthly depending on coverage amounts. You should document stored items with photos and receipts, especially for valuable collections or electronics.

Seasonal Storage in Climate Controlled Units

Edmonton’s extreme seasons make climate controlled storage particularly valuable for temperature-sensitive seasonal items. Holiday decorations with sentimental value, family photographs, and vintage collections benefit from year-round temperature protection. Smart residents use climate controlled units to protect irreplaceable items from weather damage while rotating seasonal belongings safely.

Business Use of Climate Controlled Storage

Climate controlled storage units accommodate businesses storing documents, inventory, or equipment requiring temperature protection. Home-based businesses use units for sensitive product storage, while professional offices store archived records in proper conditions. Online sellers maintain electronics or climate-sensitive inventory in temperature-regulated units. Commercial storage solutions are available for businesses with extensive needs.

Why Edmonton Residents Choose U•STORE•IT for Climate Controlled Storage

U•STORE•IT has provided climate controlled storage to Alberta families and businesses since 1978 and understands unique local needs like protecting belongings from -40°C winters and +35°C summers. Our facilities near major Edmonton neighborhoods (North Edmonton, South Edmonton, West Edmonton) plus St. Albert and Red Deer locations ensure most residents live within convenient distance of climate controlled storage. We offer true month-to-month billing that saves customers hundreds annually.

Questions to Ask Any Climate Controlled Storage Facility

You should ask about actual monthly versus 4-week billing cycles (13 payments yearly), climate control specifics (temperature ranges maintained, humidity control), access hour restrictions during holidays, whether managers are available for assistance, and insurance requirements or options when comparing climate controlled storage units. You should also confirm security camera coverage and whether individual unit alarms are available. U•STORE•IT provides transparent answers to all these concerns.