Although known for their sturdy, impenetrable structure, shipping containers are liable to develop condensation depending on a range of factors, such as where it is located and the type of items stored inside. This added moisture on the walls and floors can potentially damage your goods over extended periods of time. Fortunately, condensation is easy to remove and prevent with a few simple steps.
Why Does Condensation Occur?
Condensation occurs whenever there is a significant change in temperature between the inside and outside of a space – and a shipping container is no different. Also known as ‘container sweat’, this condensation will appear should the walls cool below the temperature of the air inside the container, developing moisture. This can be worsened by several factors, such as keeping paper, wood, cardboard, and books inside, or even having too much free space impacting the temperature differentials. Naturally, the surrounding humidity or fluctuating day and night temperatures will also contribute to moisture development.
Container Insulation
Introducing insulation into your shipping container can be an efficient and affordable method to minimising condensation. This simple modification works towards maintaining a warmer temperature on the inside to minimise the difference with that of the outside.
Keep Things Balanced with Open Doors When Possible
Should you have the area available, aim to keep the doors of your shipping container open for as long and often as possible. Obviously, this is predicated on your ability to keep its contents secured from intruders and animals, but in doing so, there will be equilibrium of the temperature between the interior and exterior, with no difference producing moisture.
Ventilation Installation
Keeping doors wide open might not be viable for you, so there is always the option of installing ventilation. Again, this will enable an equalisation of temperatures between the interior and exterior environments of the shipping container. Any warm, moist air developing inside will be extracted by the system, replaced with the cooler airflow from outside.
Learn More on Proper Care of Your Shipping Container Today
For more information on how to properly care for your shipping container and its contents, please feel encouraged to contact the friendly team at Southwest Containers today. With years of experience and knowledge in the industry, we are confident we can find you the ideal solution to meet your storage needs within our extensive selection of containers.