Do Storage Units Have Electricity?

When you first start looking for extra storage space, one of the most common questions on people’s lips is do storage units have electricity?

Well, the short answer is that most storage units in the UK do not include electricity as standard, although some specialist storage facilities do offer limited electrical access depending on their purpose and safety policies.

Understanding how the electricity is catered for in self storage environments is important before you move in. It can determine how you can use the unit, what happens to the items stored inside and how much you will pay for your unit.

This guide explains when you can expect the supply of power outlets in particular, why most self storage units remain without a power supply and also what options there are for customers who genuinely need access to a power source.

Why Most Storage Units Do Not Incorporate Electricity

The main reason most storage facilities do not like to provide electricity is safety. The connection of multiple electrical power outlets directly into enclosed units can present a substantial fire risk, especially when customers are storing flammable materials or furniture that can also very easily catch alight.

A standard unit is designed purely for the purpose of storing items, not for creating a space where people can work from.

The aim of the self storage facility is to provide clean, safe and temperature controlled environments for the items stored within them, not the means of support for continual electrical usage.

Electrical access would also require constant checking and taping up after usage, which would raise rents and present other unnecessary dangers for the self storage user and customer. As a result, most self storage facilities decide to avoid having any of their units powered.

Where Power Is Offered

There are some storage locations, though, that may offer electricity, especially those that deal with commercial clients. There are even some self storage centres that have specific units for tradesmen, electricians and contractors, that include electrical access in the rented space for purposes of charging up tools or otherwise checking equipment at the site.

These units will normally cost more, and are often in limited supply.

When power is provided, it will usually be limited to light power usage, such as the ability to run a battery charger in the unit.

The Usefulness Of Power To Business Storage

For some business clients, the availability of power in a storage unit may make an enormous difference. Small businesses may utilise storage for checking up on inventory from their operations, or for working on equipment using electricity, and the offering of power in a storage unit can make for a smoother operation.

If you are an individual utilising storage for business needs or to store electronics or other goods, contact your prospective self storage company as to whether or not they provide for powered units.

Some newer self storage facilities have communal use areas with available electrical outlets, enabling users to work close to their storage unit.

These hybridised storage solutions are becoming increasingly common throughout the UK, particularly within business hubs or areas where flexibility is in high demand.

Electricity and Security

Electricity in storage facilities does not affect convenience only, it affects security as well. If all storage units had available electric light, there would be increased fire risk, unauthorised occupation and danger through faulty electrical circuits or dangerous appliances.

In order to maintain security and safety for all customers self storage companies generally restrict the use of electricity to controlled areas within the self storage facility.

These areas are continually monitored by the staff members who inspect them regularly and check that all electrical appliances are in a safe condition and properly used.

Alternatives to Units Without Electricity

If the self storage unit chosen does not provide electricity, there are safe and feasible alternatives available. There are portable batteries, light-emitting diodes (LEDs), solar-powered lights, etc.

Other appliances, such as tools or electronic appliances, may be charged outside of the self storage unit, and brought in, as required.

The Differences in Normal and Powered Units

A normal unit has no power whatsoever. This type of unit is used to store furniture, boxes and company stock that does not require electricity.

Powered units on the other hand allow you to use electricity to test out equipment while in a unit, or use lighting to find stock items easily at night. However, these units will only allow light usage of power.

Questions to Ask Before Renting

If you need a powered unit there are some very important aspects to clear up before you sign your agreement.

For instance, does the storage company that you are renting from offer powered units, and if so what kind of electrical outlets do they offer.

Ask the management if they have restrictions on the type of powered equipment or electronics that they will permit and whether there will be a charge to use the power supply.

Lastly, you will want to know just what kinds of safety and security systems are furnished by the company to protect their product.

By clearing these points before renting, you can make sure that you are getting the right storage unit that you need.