Condensation can be a major issue whether you’re utilizing a shipping container to convey goods across the globe or simply renting a storage container to store your extra “stuff.” Being formed of corrugated steel, containers frequently have internal walls that are cooler than the air they hold, which causes this phenomenon. This causes the air to release moisture in the form of water droplets, which then drip onto your belongings and the inside of the walls and ceiling.
While water damage is undesirable in and of itself, condensation can also result in the growth of mold, which is particularly concerning if you are storing any clothes. Thus, we offer you five suggestions in this post on how to prevent condensation in shipping containers and preserve the quality of your stored goods.
USE THE APPROPRIATE STORAGE CONTAINERS
Unbelievably, the sort of storage containers you use can have a significant impact on whether condensation occurs inside a container. This is because the materials they are made of contain a lot of water. Hardwood pallets, for instance, are frequently rather high in water content; younger pallets are constructed of fresh wood that is moisture-rich, but older pallets may have collected too much water from being stored outside. Our recommendation is to choose metal or plastic-based pallets or containers. If you do choose wooden pallets, you must make sure they are completely dried off before using them.
USE A DEHUMIDIFIER
Consider using a dehumidifier if your container is prone to condensation on a regular basis. The extra moisture will be filtered into a tray once it absorbs it from the air. They are especially useful for organizing a re-used container since they will take out any moisture that may have remained from earlier loading. However, keep in mind that they require a steady supply of power inside the container and that regular emptying is also required.
USE DESICCANTS
Desiccants are so-called “hygroscopic” materials that take in moisture from their immediate surroundings. The tiny sachet of silica gel in your jacket pocket is a desiccant, which helps keep it completely dry and mold-free. You are undoubtedly already familiar with them. Shipping containers follow the same reasoning, only on a greater scale. Desiccants are precisely placed for optimal effect and can be utilized in bags, “blankets,” or pads. For example, pads can be used to protect chilled food and drink from the floor while blankets can be used to cover products to shield them from ceiling water drops. Another quick, affordable, and efficient method of lowering the moisture content of your container is to hang salt-filled stockings from the ceiling.
SET UP INSULATION
Condensation in your container can be significantly reduced with enough insulation. This is accomplished by lowering the temperature differential between the interior walls and the air kept within the container, which prevents the latter from releasing moisture in the form of droplets. Despite the fact that there are numerous ways to insulate your container, we advise utilizing either spray foam or stone wool insulation because both may be applied successfully to the inside walls.
IMPROVE VENTILATION
Although it might not always be a good idea, ventilation can help to lessen condensation. By bringing the interior and exterior temperatures of the container into balance, it does this. That is to say, warm, humid air is sent outside, while drier, outside air is brought inside the container. But keep in mind that if your container is kept in damp or humid circumstances, this won’t work.
Condensation might damage the items you’re storing in your shipping container, whether they be cars, construction equipment, or sporting goods. Nevertheless, by following these five easy procedures, you can guarantee that your container remains dew-drop free.
