With temperatures soaring (Portland is currently experiencing a Red Flag alert today and tomorrow, with temperatures potentially reaching 100 degrees), it's essential to safeguard not just your comfort, but also your property. High heat can wreak havoc on household systems, damage sensitive items in storage, and spike your utility bills. Whether you're at home or storing valuable possessions offsite, these preparation tips will help you weather the hottest days with ease and peace of mind.
🏠 At Home: Staying Cool and Protected
1. Check and Maintain Your HVAC System
Before a heatwave hits, try to make sure your HVAC system is running in top shape by cleaning or replacing air filters. If you have an outdoor unit, make sure it’s clear of debris. If it’s been longer than a year, a professional inspection of an HVAC unit is never a bad idea. Use a programmable thermostat to regulate cooling efficiently: setting it a few degrees higher when you’re away saves energy.
2. Seal and Insulate
Hot air sneaks in through gaps in doors, windows, and attics. Keep the cold air in by applying weather stripping and caulk around entry points, using blackout curtains or reflective shades to reduce indoor heat gain, or by upgrading the insulation in your attic. The less opportunity cold air has to escape, the better your AC will work.
3. Adjust Lighting and Appliances
Electrical appliances can put out a lot of heat. Consider making the switch to LED bulbs; they emit less heat. You can also limit oven and stove use during the hottest part of the day. Opt for grilling or microwaving meals instead. Running dishwashers and laundry machines in the early morning or evening is also a great idea.
4. Hydrate and Stay Cool Inside
Keeping your home cold is one thing, but it’s all for naught if your body is overheating! Stay cool by keeping pitchers of cold water ready in the fridge. You can also compound the effectiveness of your AC unit by keeping a fan near it to strategically boost airflow, or by creating an at-home (or at work) cooling station with electrolyte tablets, damp towels, or a cooler full of Pedialyte pops. If you do this at work, be prepared to become very popular! Especially if you work outdoors.
📦 In Storage: Protect Your Belongings from Heat Damage
1. Opt for Indoor Units
If you’re storing electronics, photos, vinyl records, books, artwork, leather, wood, or upholstered furniture, an indoor unit to regulate temperature and humidity. High heat can warp, melt, or degrade these materials quickly.
2. Use Proper Packing Materials
Avoid plastic bags: they trap moisture and heat. Use breathable fabric covers and acid-free boxes. While we typically recommend plastic bins, they are less breathable than some alternatives and can be suboptimal in high heat. Never store candles, aerosols, batteries, or flammable liquids in an outdoor unit.
3. Elevate and Ventilate
It's always a good idea to use pallets or shelving to keep items off the floor (it helps airflow and avoids potential moisture damage). You can also increase airflow by not overpacking: keep some room between items, even inside boxes. Airflow can reduce mildew, moisture, and heat damage.
4. Label and Inventory
In high heat, quick access reduces time spent in stuffy units. Make sure to clearly label heat-sensitive items and keep an inventory on your phone or a cloud app to minimize time spent inside the unit.
Heatwaves are inevitable, but damage and discomfort don’t have to be. With some proactive steps, you can turn your home into a summer sanctuary and ensure your storage unit remains a safe haven for your belongings. A little preparation now goes a long way when the mercury rises!
🌟 Ready to Make Space for What Matters?
Whether you’re storing your parade float supplies or just making room for summer fun, we’ve got you covered. Visit either of our Pearl District locations or head to 👉 www.downtownselfstorage.com to explore our units, pricing, and availability.
☀️ Don’t Miss Our 3-2-1 Summer Special!
Get 3 months, 2 locations, and 1 unbeatable deal on select units—perfect for growing businesses or anyone needing extra space this season. Contact us today to learn more!
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Find Us in the Pearl District
Downtown Self Storage – Davis Street
📍 1305 NW Davis Street, Portland, OR 97209
📞 503-223-2833
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📍 1304 NW Johnson Street, Portland, OR 97209
📞 503-214-2916
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