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STORAGE TIPS

5 Things to Do Before Storing Electronics in Storage Facilities

Posted on October 21, 2020

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Pad and pack all your electronics before placing them in storage facilities.

Have you ever tried to change the batteries in a stored flashlight or TV remote to find a white, crusty mess? Is there a pile of cables in your closet that you have no idea where they belong? Have you unpacked that old stereo to find the speakers are damaged? Packing electronics is an art form in itself. Follow these 5 tips to prepare your electronics before you pack them and keep your electronics safe in our Kelowna storage facilities until the day you want to plug them in again.

 

1. Prevent Alkaline Battery Corrosion

Alkaline batteries are prone to leak when left unused in electronic devices for a long time in damp places. The batteries’ insulating seals can breach due to rust and corrosion, leaving a crusty, found-smelling residue. 

The best way to prevent battery corrosion is to remove all batteries from your electronics before storing them. Store the removed batteries in a waterproof container and place them in an indoor storage unit at room or a slightly cooler temperature. Avoid freezing.

 

2. Know How to Store Lithium-ion Batteries

If you plan to store battery-powered lithium electronics, such as laptops, cameras, and smartphones, make sure to charge the battery to at least 40 percent before removing it from the device. Store batteries in Ziploc bags or waterproof containers to prevent corrosion, and include a desiccant such as silicon sachets to avoid moisture. Do not store lithium batteries in the refrigerator. Instead, look for a cool and dry storage facility.

 

3. Organize Cables and Cords

One of the best ways to keep track of cords, cables, and chargers when storing electronics is to bundle each unit together according to the device. Coil all cables and cords separately and then tie them with an elastic band or twist tie. Label each with a sticker label, and then seal in a Ziploc bag. Pack the bag with the device when storing it.

 

4. Keep Operating Manuals and Back-Up Data 

Another essential item to keep when packing electronics is the operating manual. Store the booklet inside a waterproof bag or container or load the information onto your smartphone. If storing computers or smartphones, make sure to back up all your data onto a USB stick or on to a cloud file storage site.

 

5. Pad and Properly Pack Each Electronic Item

If possible, use the original box or packaging when packing your device. Wrap the device in antistatic foam or bubble wrap, paying particular attention to the screen. Pad any empty spaces with styrofoam peanuts or crumpled packing paper. Look for climate-controlled and secure storage facilities in Kelowna to store all your electronics. Don’t forget to include your cords, cables, chargers, and owner’s manual.

 

For more information, read our Kelowna Self-Storage Tips on What To Do If You Have Too Much Stuff.

 

With more than 380,000 sq. feet of space, Space Centre Self Storage offers secure and climate-controlled storage buildings in Kelowna. Contact us if you require storage lockers, indoor or outdoor access storage units, portable storage containers, RV and boat storage, warehousing facilities, and more.

 

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