Summer Chemical Storage: Protecting Product Performance in Warmer Weather
As temperatures rise across the UK, it's not just food and livestock that feel the effects of the heat. Chemical storage conditions can have a significant impact on the performance, stability and efficacy of hygiene products. While much attention is given to protecting chemicals during freezing winter conditions, warm weather storage is equally important and should not be overlooked.
At Kersia, we regularly advise customers on best practices for chemical storage to help ensure products perform as intended and continue to deliver effective hygiene outcomes. Our recent winter storage guidance highlighted the risks associated with cold temperatures. In contrast, prolonged exposure to excessive heat can also compromise product quality and lead to reduced performance.
Why Hot Weather Matters
Many chemical products are formulated to remain stable within specific temperature ranges. When stored in excessively warm conditions, certain active ingredients can begin to break down through a process known as thermal degradation.
Thermal degradation can result in:
For operations where hygiene is critical, maintaining product integrity is essential to ensure cleaning and disinfection programmes remain effective.
Products Most at Risk
Particular attention should be paid to products containing oxidising active ingredients, including:
Peracetic Acid-Based Products
Peracetic acid is a highly effective disinfectant, but like many oxidising agents, it can gradually lose efficacy when exposed to prolonged elevated temperatures.
Sodium Hypochlorite-Based Products
Sodium hypochlorite solutions are particularly sensitive to heat. Exposure to higher temperatures can accelerate decomposition, reducing the available active chlorine and ultimately impacting product performance.
Flammable Products
Flammable products should be stored in a cool, well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight, heat sources and ignition points. Containers should remain closed when not in use and be routinely inspected for signs of damage or deterioration.
The Hidden Risk of Black Containers
During warmer months, products stored outdoors can become significantly hotter than the surrounding air temperature.
Black IBCs and packaging can be especially vulnerable because their dark surface absorbs solar radiation, causing the contents to heat up rapidly during sunny periods. Even when ambient temperatures appear moderate, the temperature inside a black IBC may rise substantially higher, potentially accelerating chemical degradation.
Where possible:
What Temperature Should Chemicals Be Stored At?
Specific storage temperature requirements are detailed within each product's Safety Data Sheet (SECTION 7: HANDLING AND STORAGE) and these should always be followed.
However, as a general guide, approximately 20°C is considered the optimum storage temperature for most chemical products.
Maintaining a stable storage environment helps preserve product quality and ensures chemicals remain within their intended specification throughout their shelf life.
Best Practice Summer Storage Tips
To protect your chemical investment and maintain optimum product performance:
✅ Store chemicals in a cool, dry and well-ventilated area
✅ Keep products out of direct sunlight wherever possible
✅ Check that bulk storage tanks and IBCs are located away from heat sources
✅ Review stock levels and use older stock first
✅ Regularly inspect storage areas during periods of extreme heat
✅ Refer to the relevant Safety Data Sheet for specific storage recommendations
✅ Contact your Kersia representative if you are unsure about suitable storage conditions for a particular product
Protecting Performance All Year Round
Effective hygiene programmes depend on high-quality products performing exactly as intended. While winter conditions can present challenges such as freezing and thickening, summer temperatures can be equally damaging through accelerated degradation and loss of active ingredients.
Taking a proactive approach to chemical storage helps protect product efficacy, supports hygiene standards and ensures you achieve the best possible performance from your Kersia products.
For further advice on chemical storage or to discuss the most suitable products for your operation, please contact your local Kersia representative or our team on 01706 222288.
