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Main Blog How to Keep Your Container Cool During the Summer

How to Keep Your Container Cool During the Summer

April 5, 2022
Coast Containers

Summertime brings hot weather and high temperatures. Whether you are using your shipping container as a home, office, garage, shed, or storage container, keeping cool during the hot summer season can be challenging. Shipping containers are made out of industrial-grade steel, which means that although they can protect your belongings from the weather, containers can become overheated and sometimes very humid. From optimizing airflow and installing insulation to container modifications, there are plenty of ways to keep your container cool during the hot summer months. 

Optimize Shipping Container Airflow and Ventilation

Install Shipping Container Vents

Installing shipping container vents is a great way to keep your container cool during the summer. An excellent strategy is to create cross ventilation through the air vents. For example, you can install the vents on opposite sides of your container. By increasing airflow, the vents help to regulate temperature and prevent ongoing heat buildup. So if you are looking for a simple yet effective way to keep things cool this summer, be sure to install some shipping container vents.

Add Windows and Curtains to Your Shipping Container 

Modifying your container by installing windows can be a great way to increase circulation and airflow. Similar to the placement of vents, deciding where you want your windows to be located on your container can help decrease the internal heat during the hot months. For example, ensuring the windows are on opposite sides of the containers can optimize the internal airflow and circulation. If you choose to add windows to your storage container, you may want to add curtains or blinds to protect your belongings from the sun coming through the windows. The blinds can also help maintain your desired level of security and privacy within your container.  

Use a Dehumidifier, Fan or Air Conditioning Unit 

If you have electricity in your shipping container, using a dehumidifier, fan or air conditioning unit are fantastic options for keeping your container cool during the summer season.

  • Dehumidifiers can help reduce the humidity and moisture buildup within your container.
  • Fans are excellent options for increasing cross ventilation and airflow.
  • Air Conditioning Units will undoubtedly do the trick, but they can be a little expensive to run continuously.

Insulate Your Storage Container

Install Insulation Inside Your Container 

Insulation installation is a great way to keep your shipping container cool during the summer. You can keep the heat out and maintain a comfortable temperature inside your container by installing insulation. There are a few different ways to insulate a shipping container, but spray foam insulation is one of the more common materials many people use due to its easy application. 

Refrigerated (Reefer) Shipping Containers

Depending on how you plan to use your sea can, you might find investing in a refrigerated (Reefer) shipping container an excellent option for keeping your container cool during the summer. These types of containers are often used to transport goods that require an internal environment that is temperature controlled. However, it is essential to remember that these containers are designed to maintain temperature, not to bring down the temperature like a freezer in a home. You can visit our Coast Containers website if you are interested in learning more about refrigerated (Reefer) shipping containers.

External Shipping Container Modification, Placement, and Usage

Heatproof the Storage Container Roof

An easy and cost-effective way to cool down your shipping container during the summer is to heatproof the roof. Containers often come in a wide variety of colours: red, blue, green, and orange. While these can be bright and colourful, these colours are not the best for heat proofing a storage container. Instead, consider modifying your container by painting it a lighter colour, such as a light grey or white. It will reflect sunlight which can help maintain a lower temperature inside your container. 

Additionally, you can try painting your container with white reflective paint is an ideal alternative for heatproofing the roof. Remember that it is essential to ensure that the top stays clear of debris such as leaves, branches, and dirt after painting the top of your container. 

Large Roof To Provide Shelter For Your Container 

If you are using your shipping container as a home or business, you might want to consider purchasing a large roof that will extend over the top of the container. A roof covering the structure will help shade the shipping container and windows from direct sunlight during the hot summer days. 

Where Should You Put Your Storage Container?

Deciding where you will be placing your shipping container on your property can impact how well you can prevent it from getting too warm during the summer season. Here are a few different suggestions for optimizing the location of your container: 

  • Try to place your storage container in the most shaded spot on your property.
  • Increase airflow and drainage by placing your container on gravel or on top of a safe and sturdy raised foundation. 
  • If possible, try to leave some space around the outside of your container to encourage natural airflow and circulation. 

When Are The Best Times To Access Your Storage Container?

If you know you will need to access your container in advance, try to plan out your timing to keep any doors and windows closed during the hottest hours of the day. Instead, try to access your shipping container storage unit in the early mornings, evenings, or at night when the outside environment is cooler and less likely to increase the internal temperature of your storage container. 

Conclusion 

There are many ways to keep your sea can cool during the summer, from modified shipping containers to carefully choosing where and when you access your storage container. Whether you are looking for windows or vents to be added, here at Coast Containers, we are happy to help guide you through choosing the correct container size, type and modifications to best suit your specific personal and business needs. To start your shipping container journey, simply select one of our locations across Canada and get a quote today.

Not sure if you are ready to buy a container yet? Our partner company, Make Space Storage, offers various shipping container rental services and storage solutions, including self-storage, parking, portable storage rentals, and moving services across Canada.

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