Storing appliances in self storage requires careful planning. Whether you are moving, downsizing, or just decluttering your home, your appliances can be successfully stored in a self storage unit together with your other belongings and keep their condition for when you need them again.
So, if you need to store your appliances in a self storage unit, don’t worry – with some careful planning and effective packing methods, you can ensure they’ll be kept safe and secure. To help you out, here are some useful hints and tips for you to follow.
- Before you start packing, make a list of the appliances you want to store. Determine their size, weight, and fragility. Appliances like refrigerators, washing machines, and ovens require special handling due to their size and weight. Smaller appliances such as microwaves and blenders should be packed securely to prevent damage during transportation and storage.
- Cleaning your appliances before storage is crucial. Remove any food residues, dust, or moisture to prevent mould and unpleasant odours. For refrigerators, defrost the freezer and clean the interior thoroughly. Wipe down all surfaces with a mild detergent. For other appliances, disassemble removable parts and clean them separately. Ensure everything is completely dry before packing.
- Ensure you have suitable packing supplies. Collect sturdy boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, furniture blankets, and appliance covers. Bubble wrap provides excellent cushioning, while furniture blankets offer protection against scratches and dents. Appliance covers are specifically designed to protect large appliances like refrigerators and washing machines from dust and moisture.
- Disassemble the appliance if possible. If you can, disassemble appliances to save space and minimise the risk of damage during storage. Remove detachable parts like shelves, drawers, and cords. Place small parts in labeled bags, ensuring you know which appliance they belong to. Take pictures or make diagrams to help you reassemble the appliances correctly later.
- Use proper packing techniques. When packing appliances in boxes, place heavier items at the bottom and lighter items on top. Fill empty spaces with packing material to prevent shifting during transportation. Wrap fragile parts with bubble wrap and secure them with tape. For large appliances, use furniture blankets or appliance covers to shield them from scratches and dust.
- Choose the right-sized storage unit. Select a storage unit that accommodates the size and number of appliances you plan to store. Measure your appliances and the storage unit to ensure a proper fit.
- Create a layout plan. Before moving appliances into the storage unit, create a layout plan. Place larger appliances at the back of the unit and stack smaller items in front. Leave pathways between items for easy access. Keep frequently used appliances towards the front of the unit for convenient retrieval.
- Label all boxes and bags containing parts from disassembled appliances. Mark the contents and which appliance they belong to. Create an inventory list for easy reference. Organise the storage unit logically, so you can quickly locate specific appliances or parts when needed.
- Whenever possible, store appliances vertically to save floor space. For example, store refrigerators, washing machines, and dryers upright. Secure them with straps or ropes to prevent tipping. Make sure to leave the doors slightly ajar to allow ventilation, which will help prevent the growth of mould and mildew.
What Can Cause Harm to Appliances in Self Storage?
Although self storage units are invaluable for keeping belongings safe and secure, appliances, despite their sturdy appearances, are vulnerable to damage while in storage.
Knowing about these potential threats is important to make sure your appliances survive their time in storage and work smoothly when it is time to retrieve them.
Here are the key factors that can cause harm to appliances in self storage:
-
Moisture and Humidity
Moisture is a major enemy of appliances. High humidity levels can lead to the development of rust and corrosion on metal parts, especially in appliances like refrigerators and washing machines. Additionally, moisture can damage electrical components, leading to short circuits which will leave the appliances useless.
-
Significant Fluctuations in Temperature
Extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, can adversely affect appliances. Freezing temperatures can cause water inside appliances to expand and crack pipes and hoses. On the other hand, excessive heat can damage sensitive electronic components, leading to malfunctions in appliances such as microwave ovens and air conditioners.
-
Pests and Rodents
Self storage units can become home to pests and rodents if conditions are right. This means there must be food available for them to thrive. Any food residue found anywhere in the unit will encourage them. These creatures can chew through wiring and insulation, causing electrical issues and rendering appliances unsafe to use. Moreover, pests can leave behind droppings and nests, creating unhygienic conditions inside appliances.
-
Improper and Careless Handling
Appliances are heavy but delicate, making them susceptible to damage during transportation and storage. Mishandling, such as dropping or banging appliances, can result in dents, scratches, and internal damage that may affect their performance.
-
Lack of Ventilation
Proper ventilation is essential to prevent the buildup of odours, mould, and mildew inside appliances. Storing appliances in airtight spaces without ventilation can lead to foul smells. Make sure there is sufficient air circulation.
-
Failure to Clean Appliances Thoroughly
Dirt, food residues, and other substances left inside appliances can attract pests and lead to odours. Over time, these residues can harden and become challenging to clean, affecting the appliance’s performance and hygiene.
Ensuring the integrity of your appliances while in self-storage requires a few key steps. First, make sure to prepare them correctly for storage. Second, position them in a way that minimises the risk of damage. Third, perform regular maintenance to keep them in good condition. Lastly, choose a storage facility that prioritises cleanliness to further protect your appliances. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your appliances stay in excellent condition while in storage and are ready for use once retrieved.
Stop & Store Lowestoft: Store Appliances in Self Storage
When you have appliances to store consider a self storage unit at our facility in Lowestoft.
- Our storage facility is fully secured with monitored CCTV, intruder alarms, and a secure perimeter fence.
- There is easy access to the units for loading and off-loading.
- Our units, which vary in size from 12 sq. ft. to 200 sq. ft., are clean, dry, and secure steel partitioned rooms. If you are uncertain how much space you need for your belongings use the Space Calculator to help you choose the right size unit. Otherwise, contact us if you need any further assistance or information.
- We are open seven days a week to make it easily accessible. Our hours are 8 am to 6 pm so you can come and go as you please during these times.
Stop & Store Lowestoft is conveniently situated near the railway station in Lowestoft and is also suitable for Oulton, Hopton on Sea, Kessingland, and surrounding areas.