Ask an operator what concerns them about adding new technology, and “ongoing upkeep” is usually near the top of the list.
In Episode 2 of The Truth Behind the Door, self-storage operator Gary Edmonds speaks directly about what maintaining Smart Units as a service actually requires.
Here’s the truth: it comes down to two things. Long battery life. Fast network response.
StorageDefender’s 10-year battery life eliminates yearly battery replacements and is backed by a nationwide network of technical support. On the one occasion a network issue came up, StorageDefender caught it before Gary did, and had it resolved by the next day.
Gary sums it up best: “The fact that I really don’t know anything about maintaining this program is a really good thing when you’re trying to run a facility.”
Watch Episode 2 below.
Frequently Asked Questions: StorageDefender Smart Unit Maintenance
- What is Smart Unit monitoring, and how long has StorageDefender been offering it?
StorageDefender pioneered Smart Units-as-a-service for the self storage industry in 2019. Smart Units alert tenants the instant activity is detected inside their unit and give operators a new monthly revenue stream. 7 years of real-world deployment across 45+ states have shaped how we approach maintenance today. - How long do StorageDefender Smart Unit device batteries last?
StorageDefender Smart Unit devices have at least a 10-year rated battery life, which means operators aren’t scheduling battery swaps, walking units to check devices, or budgeting for yearly replacements. - What happens if we have an issue with a device?
The Facility Manager will use the Web Management Portal to identify and resolve the issue. If support is needed, they may contact StorageDefender for support, including device replacement if determined necessary. - What happens if a network issue occurs after installation?
StorageDefender’s technical support team consistently monitors network connectivity and dispatches a technician to a property within 48 hours when on-site support is needed. - Does StorageDefender provide dedicated support for each facility?
Yes. Each self-storage facility is assigned its own designated Customer Success Manager as a direct point of contact for support, questions, or account needs, in addition to StorageDefender’s general support line (877-533-3363) for broader inquiries.

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