Why Storing Electronics in an Unconditioned Garage Can Damage Them

Garages are often chosen for storing unused electronics because of the extra space they provide, but they typically lack heating, cooling, or insulation. Building codes treat garages as separate from living areas to prevent hazardous gases from entering homes, resulting in environments that can be 10 to 18 degrees hotter than outside and prone to humidity. These conditions speed up battery aging in dry heat regions and cause condensation that corrodes circuitry in humid areas.

Although a tightly sealed, insulated garage in a temperate zone may be acceptable, experts advise using climate-controlled rooms, backing up data, removing disposable batteries, and periodically charging rechargeable devices. If a garage is the only option, using weatherproof containers with silica packs, anti-static bags, and elevating the storage off concrete can mitigate risks, while monitoring temperature and humidity with sensors is recommended.