How to Store Electronics in Self-Storage
Whether you are moving or creating room for new gadgets at home, storing your electronics the proper way can make a difference in how long they will remain preserved. Store them poorly and they can get ruined by humidity, dust and heat. Store them the right way, and you can enjoy your electronics for years to come. Electronics storage ranges from CDs and vinyl records to VHS and DVD players, and anything in between. Regardless of what you plan on storing, each is going to require its own special care to keep it in good working condition over an extended period of time.
Here are a couple of tips to show you how to properly store electronics while they are in a storage unit.
8 Electronic Storage Tips and Ideas
1. Check the Manual
Review the manual provided by the manufacturing company to see if they have best practices on storing your device or item. If you don’t have it laying around, there’s a good chance you can find it online on their website or through an internet search. If your item is still covered under warranty, it’s a good idea to take heed of the company’s advice on how to properly store the item so you don’t void the warranty.
2. Take Pictures of Connectors
Before you remove the cords from old computers, VHS/DVD players, or other devices, take a picture of it with all its cords and components in place before unplugging anything. This way, when you go to reassemble it later, you can refer to the image for easy assembly.
3. Remove Disks & Connectors
Once you have it documented, remove any disks or CDs from your players or computers before disconnecting them. Discs can get damaged while getting moved within the device. Power your device down after making sure it’s clear and then disconnect any connectors, cords or components. Keep them bundled with your device.
4. Organize Cords
Match up any cords, connectors or components with the electronic device that it belongs to. For those with an extra drawer full of extra cords or cables, check that they still work and pair them back with the item that’s getting stored. Neatly wrap the items for storage by untangling the cords and wrapping them around either the matching adapter or device that it belongs to. This ensures that you won’t have to go hunting for it when your need arises. It prevents the protective casing from splitting and breaking over time from being bent in multiple directions.
5. Gather Electronic Storage Boxes
If you have kept the box and packaging for your device in good condition, then you can use that for storage. However, if you’re like many consumers who don’t have the space for the product boxes and packaging, there are electronic storage boxes and packaging supplies that are available for purchase. These storage materials will help keep your electronics organized and protected. For electronics like tablets, flat screen TVs, computer monitors-- and other devices that have a screen-- using anti-static bubble will prevent scratches, cracks, and other damages, while also reducing static electricity that could be harmful to your device.
6. Use Blankets and Padding
If you don’t have access to bubble cushion and other packaging supplies, using blankets for larger devices, such as flat screen TVs and other fragile electronics will suffice. Use tape that will adhere to fabric that is also waterproof. Use care when wrapping your devices and be sure to place any devices with a screen (especially flat screen televisions) standing upright rather than face down or stacked between other stored items.
7. Organize Electronics by Category
When storing electronics, it helps to organize each item into a category and then store them in that group. That way, when you are retrieving items, you will know that all of your home entertainment electronics are grouped together in one area, while all of your work-related electronics and external hard drives are grouped in another.
8. Choose the Right Storage Unit
Since many electronic devices do not operate well after exposed to humidity or high temperatures, selecting a dry, indoor, temperature-controlled storage unit is best. From storage supplies to climate-controlled self-storage units, U-Haul has everything you need to keep your electronics safe and secure. Find a self-storage location near you.