Look, I get it. You’re staring at storage unit prices thinking, “Do I really need to pay extra for climate control?” Let me tell you what I’ve seen after years in the storage business here in Arkansas – and why your grandma’s antique dresser might hate you if you cheap out.

Our Crazy Arkansas Weather: Why It Matters?

Remember last summer when it hit 98°F with 90% humidity? Or that random cold snap last winter where pipes froze across the county? That’s exactly what your stored items go through in a regular unit. I’ve seen:

• Wooden furniture legs that warped so bad they wobble like a drunk duck.
• Photo albums where all the pages melted together.
• Leather jackets growing fuzzy green mold spots.
• Electronics that worked fine when stored but were toast six months later.

What Actually Needs Protection?

Let’s cut through the BS. Here’s what absolutely needs climate control:

1. The “Family Heirloom” Category

• That solid oak dining set from your great-aunt.
• Your dad’s vintage record collection.
• Your wedding dress or military uniforms.
  Why? These can’t be replaced when ruined.

2. The “Expensive to Replace” Stuff

• Flat screen TVs.
• Washer/dryer sets.
• Your collection of autographed baseballs.
  Why? Cheaper to pay for climate control than replace.

3. The “Sentimental” Items

• Baby clothes you’re saving.
• All your family photos.
• Your kid’s art projects from kindergarten.
  Why? No amount of money can bring these back if damaged.

When You Can Save Your Money

Honestly, these things don’t need the fancy treatment:

• Your collection of plastic lawn chairs.
• Metal tools (they’ll be fine).
• That box of old pots and pans.
• Holiday decorations in sealed plastic bins.

The Math That Might Surprise You

Climate control adds about $30/month. Let’s do quick math:

• $30 x 12 months = $360.
• New sofa set when yours warps = $2,000+.
• Restoring moldy photos = Nearly impossible.
• Replacing water-damaged documents = Major headache.

We’ve had customers cry when they open their regular units after a humid summer. Don’t be that person.

Our Best Advice

If you’re storing:

• For less than 3 months → Probably fine without.
• 3-6 months → Depends what it is.
• Over 6 months → Just get climate control.

We offer both options because we know sometimes you just need to stash some tools for a few weeks. But if you’re storing anything that would break your heart (or wallet) to lose, spend the extra few bucks.

Come by and we’ll show you real examples of what happens to stuff in each type of unit. No sales pressure – just helping neighbors make smart choices. Because at the end of the day, we’re Arkansas folks storing our stuff too!