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Climate-controlled storage units versus traditional storage units

If you are considering using a storage unit for items you no longer use or need to put away for a while, you may be wondering if your items will be safe and protected. When it comes to storage options, there are traditional storage units, where the environment is not climate-controlled as well as the option to use a climate-controlled unit. Learning more about both options can help you to make the right decision when it comes to storing your belongings the best way possible.

Understanding climate-controlled storage units

Climate-controlled storage units versus traditional storage units - Winnipeg Storage Units - Total Storage WinnipegTo begin, you need to learn more about climate-controlled storage. Is the temperature of the facility controlled? What is the temperature range? In general, the standard will be to keep the temperature between 10 to 25 degrees Celsius (or 50 to 78 Fahrenheit). Certain items will do better in storage when the climate is controlled. Learning more about the type of items that require a climate-controlled environment will help to protect your belongings when storing long term. Generally, if it is coming out of your climate-controlled home, and moved into storage, the storage should also be climate-controlled.

Items which require a climate-controlled environment

Certain items require temperature control when stored to ensure the integrity of the item remains. Take wooden furniture for example. Over time, wood that is exposed to moisture can crack and warp, even rot. When storing wooden items like tables and chairs, bed frames, etc., you will need access to a climate-controlled environment. With climate control, the temperature is regulated which helps maintain a steady humidity level. This will help to ensure wooden pieces stay in shape.

Leather furniture is also susceptible to temperature changes. If you have hot and cold swings, leather will crack. When storing such furniture pieces, having a climate-controlled storage unit is essential. Household appliances also benefit from the protection of the elements. In environments where extreme heat or cold is present, the electrical and mechanical parts can be damaged.

Specialty items which require a climate-controlled environment

Climate-controlled storage units versus traditional storage units - Winnipeg Storage Units - Total Storage WinnipegIf you are like many people, you have special collections that you want to keep, but you do not have room for. Such collections as coins, comic books or stamps have value over time. Keeping such items is an investment that must be protected. Storing such specialty items will ensure that your investment stays in good condition.

Total Storage Winnipeg offers climate-controlled storage units through regulation of the temperature within the storage facility. Renting a climate-controlled storage unit from us will help ensure the protection of all your belongings while stored. For more information about sizing and options for storage units, call – 204.832.8181 or visit our website and take a virtual tour or contact us!

5 Tips to Keep In Mind Before Choosing the Right Size Storage Unit

When deciding on renting a storage unit choosing the right size can be a bit daunting. Renting too small a unit can be frustrating and too large can prove to be a waste of money. With some planning and foresight, you can choose the storage unit that will fit your needs perfectly.

Here are 5 tips to keep in mind before you choose your storage unit size:

  1. Take inventory of what you are planning on storing. This is the first and the most important step in planning your unit size. There are moving apps available to help you with you inventory choice. See our blog for suggestions on taking inventory – 3 Apps to Help Organize
  2. Consider the type of boxes you are using and how many can stack safely. Using boxes of consistent size and weight allows you to stack well and save space.
  3. Measure furniture and appliances and consider if some furniture can be disassembled for easier storage. Tables and bed frames can often be disassembled to allow for storing flat against walls
  4. Use furniture to store other things. Bureaus and desks drawers can store clothes and supplies saving you space.
  5. Take future storage needs into consideration. If you plan on moving some things later be sure to include them in your inventory list.

Once you have planned your inventory and have an idea you can then make a floor plan. Start with the smallest unit size and see if that is a good fit. Storage unit facilities vary in size, but most are relatively standard, starting at 5 x5 units and working up from there. Most moving apps offer floor plans and some even let you drag and drop furniture and boxes.

With these simple steps, choosing the right size unit will be much easier, saving you time and money in the long run.

Our team of professionals are here to help you with any questions you may have.

How many moving boxes and what moving supplies will you need for moving?

If you are moving to a new home from an existing home, you already know the process is going to be time-consuming. You will have to move larger pieces like furniture as well as smaller items. With your smaller belongings, using moving boxes are the best form of packing. Boxes are ideal for safe transportation of your items to your new home. But how many boxes will you need? Is there a certain number you should have on hand to be able to pack up your home for the move? What other moving supplies might you need in order to make your move successful? Which moving tools can help make your move easier? All of these questions and more are answered in our article below!

Plan your moving boxes usage and needs by room

How many moving boxes and what moving supplies will you need for moving? - Winnipeg Moving Boxes - Winnipeg Moving Supplies - Total Storage WinnipegIn most cases, homeowners find they need more moving boxes after starting to pack a big move. It can take up to 50 or more depending on the size of your home. Before purchasing any boxes for the move, consider what needs to be packed up. It’s likely best to break down your move by room – smaller segments will allow for a clearer overall plan. By reviewing which rooms will require boxes, you can then get a good idea as to how many you will need.

Moving boxes – sizing

When moving, you can choose to purchase some moving boxes in various sizes to fit your belongings. Smaller items such as dishes and glassware will need to be wrapped for safety and stacked in a medium size box. Larger boxes can be used for clothing, blankets, etc. as they will not be as heavy or at risk of breaking. If you have a moderately sized home, it can be beneficial to purchase 20 to 50 boxes to begin the moving process. You can then add more if needed.

Moving boxes – how to start

Like your moving plan breakdown by room, to start the move, begin boxing up items in one room at a time. Complete packing up the room and move onto the next room once completed. This way, you can finish up packing rooms in your home before you run out of boxes. By working on one room at a time, you have enough packing materials and boxes to at least finish some areas. Should you run out, you’ll be able to re-calculate the number of boxes you’ll need to finish the job – by the rooms not completed.

Other moving supplies to consider

How many moving boxes and what moving supplies will you need for moving? - Winnipeg Moving Boxes - Winnipeg Moving Supplies - Total Storage WinnipegBesides moving boxing, be sure think about what other moving supplies you need for packing. For best results include moving supplies such as packing cushions, utility blankets (to cover large items for preventing damage), tissue paper, wrapping paper, bubble wrap, packing tape, ratchet straps, tie downs and tarps. In addition to the supplies needed to pack and secure your belongings during the move also give thought to how will move your items. There are various tools which could be used to aid your efforts during a move like an appliance dolly, moving carts, and lifting straps or slings.

Total Storage Winnipeg provides moving boxes and moving supplies, so you can easily prepare your home for the big move. Besides the convenience of our moving supplies – should you need a storage unit for short or long term needs during your move – we have you covered. For more information about any of our moving supplies or storage units – contact us at 204-832-8181 today!

Preparing Your Boat for Winter Storage

Preparing Your Boat for Winter Storage - Winnipeg Self Storage - Total Storage WinnipegAll summer long, you have enjoyed going out on the water in your boat. But, with winter quickly approaching, its time to prepare your boat for storage until next summer. Preparing your boat for winter storage involves a lot more than pulling it out of the water and putting in your backyard. Any boat with a motorized engine needs protection so that it can survive the temperature and be ready to use again. Total Storage’s boat storage facility comes in quite handy when storing your boat during the offseason. However, there are steps you should take before you put your boat away for the next few months. Follow the tips below to ensure your boat is ready to be stored this winter.

Preparing Your Boat for Winter Storage – Oil and Coolant System

The first steps are to change your oil and refresh the coolant. Water or acids that may have gotten into the oil can corrode the engine when the boat is not in use. Change the filter and flush the system to ensure no water remains, adding new oil before the boat is placed in storage.

Preparing Your Boat for Winter Storage - Winnipeg Self Storage - Total Storage WinnipegFor the coolant system, drain out the coolant currently inside and flush with water. Use fresh anti-freeze, making sure you dilute it as needed. By completing these simple changes, you’re ensuring that portions of your engine will not freeze and be protected from corrosion.

Preparing Your Boat for Winter Storage – Protect your Battery

When you’re ready to put your boat into storage, remove the battery from your boat. This will prevent your battery from freezing – as once the battery freezes, it’s usually non-recoverable. Take your battery and store it in a warm, dry place within your home – or if you rent a climate controlled storage unit, store it there.

Preparing Your Boat for Winter Storage – Engine and Steering

Preparing Your Boat for Winter Storage - Winnipeg Self Storage - Total Storage WinnipegThere are steps that also need to be taken to ensure the engine and steering system will work properly when you get the boat back out in the summer months. The engine needs to be sprayed with fogging oil within the carburetor and the spark plug holes. The manual or a trained engine mechanic should be consulted for this process. Moving parts of the engine need to be protected during the cold winter months.

The mechanisms involving the control and steering of the boat also need to be considered. By greasing these components, they stay at the ready, moving with ease once the boat is back out on the open water.

Preparing Your Boat for Winter Storage – Quality Storage

One of the smartest decisions you can make is by storing your boat in a safe and quality environment. At Total Storage, there is plenty of room for boats to be stored. We have limited temperature controlled storage units, so make sure you call and reserve your unit asap. Having the benefit of a climate controlled storage unit will give you the best chance your boat remains in good condition during the harsh winter season. Next year, you’ll just have to pick up your boat when summer arrives to get out on the water quickly!

In addition to our climate controlled storage unit options, we have outdoor parking options. This allows you more space on your property and driveway during the winter.

For more information on our storage unit options – contact us at 204-832-8181. Alternatively, visit our website to learn more about the storage unit options which can fit your needs.

Total Storage Winnipeg