Think Twice Before Storing Electronics in the Garage, Engadget Warns

Most garages in the United States lack climate control because building codes treat them as separate from living spaces. Carbon monoxide from vehicles or other sources could enter the home through linked ductwork, so garages are often left uninsulated and subject to outside conditions. This can create a greenhouse effect, making the garage 10 to 18 degrees hotter than the outdoor temperature. In the Southwest, dry heat can accelerate battery aging, while some areas experience rapid, large temperature swings in the evening.

Humidity is a problem in many regions, as it can corrode contacts and solder joints and create condensation inside devices. Coastal areas and the Southeast face particular risks during cold months, with perpetual moisture harming equipment more than a dry winter in Las Vegas. A tightly sealed, insulated garage in a mild climate presents a relatively low risk, but as a general rule, electronics should not be stored in a garage unless it is climate-controlled or consistently stays within manufacturer-recommended storage conditions.

The best approach is to store electronics in a climate-controlled environment inside the home. Before putting devices away, back up important data, remove disposable batteries, and periodically charge rechargeable devices. Apple recommends storing a MacBook in a cool location with its battery at 50 percent. For other devices, check the manual for specific storage temperature and humidity ranges.

If the garage is the only option, several steps can reduce risk. Use rigid, sealed weatherproof bins rather than basic plastic containers or cardboard boxes. Place silica desiccant packs inside the bin and wrap delicate hardware in anti-static bags. Keep bins on a shelf or elevated surface, not on a concrete floor. Avoid sealing devices in humid conditions; if it is hot and muggy outside, seal them in a cool, dry area.

A set of humidity sensors can also help. Place one near the storage bins and monitor temperature and relative humidity throughout the hottest and coldest months. If prolonged heat waves occur, move equipment indoors or consider climate-controlled storage elsewhere.

Regarding TVs, Engadget notes that a cold garage does not necessarily ruin a TV, but much depends on the definition of cold. Most TVs can handle a cold snap if the temperature stays within manufacturer-recommended storage ranges and the environment remains dry. Freezing conditions and rapid temperature swings are more problematic. A chilly TV should not be brought inside and turned on immediately; it should sit at room temperature so interior moisture can evaporate. The same logic applies to computers, cameras, printers, routers, speakers and game consoles.