Storing Electronics

Storing electronics is a task that requires more planning than the average mover estimates. To help ensure your electronic equipment is safe while getting it from A to B (or in order to keep it stored away for a long period of time), we’ve put together a step by step list of details you should be considering when locking away electric household items.

1. Our number one concern is possible damage during the moving and storing times. Wiping down and cleaning your equipment to remove all dust is highly important. Dust and dirt on the electronics can lead to scratching surfaces and clogging air vents. Dust particles can also hold-in heat and humidity and create static electricity. The static electricity your socks make on the carpet can create up to 12,000 volts when you touch a grounded metal object; it only takes 4,000 volts to completely ruin a piece of electronic equipment. Again, make sure your equipment is clean and dust-free before packing it up.

2. Remove all cords and cables. Having these pulled out accidently in the process of packing can cause unfixable internal damage in a socket or outlet. Wrapping these neatly and labeling them also makes future set-up much more efficient. Also be sure to take out any alkaline batteries.Batteries left in devices can corrode and leak potassium hydroxide which will crystalize and cause permanent damage.

3. If available (and it is wise to keep this available) re-pack in its original packaging. These made-to-fit packing materials are designed to keep items static and moisture free. If you don’t have access to the boxes and foam it came in, wrap it in a cotton sheet or towel. Doing this keeps items secure in the box and also prevents dust from building up over time. In the case of glass items, use bubble wrap to prevent breakage. For a more eco-friendly option, shredded paper works very effectively, and can also be used fill in the empty spaces in the boxes to keep electronics secure. Avoid wrapping items in plastic—this can lead to damage from moisture build-up and cause mold and mildew to grow.

4. Spend plenty of time choosing the right place to store your electronics. Temperature and humidity controlled environments are the best, like the warehouse used to store all the Big Boxes.Electronics preferto be stored in temperatures between 50-80° F. If your electronics are stored in below freezing conditions, leave them to warm up for 48 hours before attempting to turn them on. If you try sooner than this, you could end up with moisture damage from the condensation. If you are unable to find a climate controlled storage room, storing the electronics with a dehumidifier to ensure the moisture stays off the equipment is highly recommended.

5. Consider transporting electronics in a car instead of a truck or van, if space allows. They are less likely to get thrown around on the journey and won’t sit in an uncontrolled climate for longer periods of time.

6. Lastly, spending some time prepping boxes before stacking them will not only keep them safe during the storage time, put also make it safer when it comes time to remove them from storage. Labeling boxes keeps electronic equipment from getting moved around too much when trying to dig out the piece you want. It is a massive time saver and can keep equipment that doesn’t need to be moved from getting accidently dropped or shaken in the process. Also, be sure to stack the heaviest items on the bottom and the lightest on the top.

If you have any more questions or need more details about how to clean, pack, or stack your electronic equipment, contact Big Box Storage and we’ll be happy to provide you with details.

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