Tips For Storing Electronics
Whether it's a big screen TV, a computer, or an electronic keyboard, proper storage is the key to making sure your electronics are still in good working order when it comes time to retrieve them from your unit. Electronics require a few more special storage considerations compared to other items. The following tips can help you store them correctly.
Tip #1: Manage the temperature and the moisture
Heat is the main enemy of an electronic item, since it can cause components inside to warp or corrode. Cold isn't quite as damaging, although prolonged storage at subfreezing temperatures can damage plastic casing around the electronics. Temperature swings between hot and cold can also result in damage, as can humid or moist conditions. A storage unit that features both temperature and humidity controlled units is your best option for storing your electronics.
Tip #2: Create a backup
If you are storing a computer or similar electronic, make sure to back up all the data to a safe place that won't be kept in the storage unit. For small amounts of a data, a simple flash drive that you can keep at home is sufficient. You can use a portable hard drive for greater amounts of data. Another option, especially if you will have no where safe to keep a storage drive, is to purchase some online storage so you can backup your data to the cloud.
Tip #3: Pack things up
Don't simply stick an electronic device into a box or stack it on a shelf. The original box with the original packing is best, but failing that, wrap the items in some non-static packing material and slip them into a box. You can find these packing materials in electronics stores and some moving supply shops. Fill in any spaces in the box with additional packing material to cushion the item, and then slip in a couple of silica gel packets to absorb any moisture.
Tip #4: Ignore the floor
The floor of the unit is the single worst place to store electronics. Not only is this typically the dampest area of the unit, items on the floor are more likely to have things stacked on top of them. This can majorly damage an electronic item. Instead, stack electronics on shelves or place them on top of pallets to elevate them from the ground. Also, make sure the boxes are clearly marked so you don't accidentally stack anything on top of them.
For more storage information, contact a company like Koch St Mini Storage.