Heber City is about 5,600 feet in elevation, and, like most of Utah, it has a climate unlike that of other states. January lows can reach well below zero, while July highs can exceed 85°F. That’s an extreme range of over 100° in just a year. This range affects how you dress, of course, but it also affects the standard storage units in Heber.
Why You Should Avoid Regular Storage in Heber
Storage conditions in the mountains vary greatly from those in the lowlands. The valley receives an average of 74 inches of snow per year, with winter lows reaching -4°F. The summer, however, brings dry air and intense sun. Standard storage units in Heber face these extremes directly, and the sun and dry air within the unit walls create a cycle of winter freeze and summer dryness, which generates condensation inside the unit.
What Gets Damaged and How Quickly
The damage caused by Heber’s weather is usually hidden, but here’s what to expect:
- Wood Furniture – Changes in temperature can cause wood to swell and shrink, leading to furniture breakage and damage.
- Electronics – Changing temperatures can cause condensation in circuits, leading to shorts and damage.
- Leather – The dry climate causes the leather to desiccate, leading to cracks and damage.
- Documents and Photos – Changing temperatures and humidity can cause mold and damage to documents.
- Musical Instruments – Changing temperatures and humidity can cause corrosion and warping.
If you are putting any of these in a non-climate-controlled storage unit in Heber, they will be in even worse condition when you come back to pick them up after a long winter.
Do You Actually Need Climate Control?
You probably don’t need storage for items such as metal tools, containers, and other durable goods, and outdoor gear can probably withstand temperature swings and be just fine. But for anything else, like furniture, electronics, instruments, or things that you value either financially or sentimentally, storage with climate control is a must.
Heber can have snowstorms in any season, so you can rest easy knowing your things are protected, no matter what the season brings.
The Right Unit Protects More Than Your Belongings
The choice between traditional and climate-controlled storage units in Heber boils down to how much you can afford to lose in the items you’re keeping safe. For many people, the answer is on the side of climate control. The price difference is minor. The potential damage that could be even more costly is much harder to deal with. Before you decide which unit to rent, make sure you know how much you’re willing to protect your belongings.