Besides the chilly weather, static electricity is something you can count on during the winter months. Not only are shocks uncomfortable, they indicate that the air has reached humidity levels that aren’t healthy. They can also damage the low-voltage components inside electronics and appliances. Increasing the humidity will solve the problems associated with dry indoor air.
Quick Fixes
- Mist the carpets with anti-static sprays or water. Most carpeting is synthetic and easily holds an electrical charge. You can purchase anti-static aerosol sprays to neutralize the electrical charges, or simply mist them with tap water. Both are temporary solutions, and depending on the size of the rooms, could take a fair amount of time.
- Carry a safety pin. Some types of metal, like safety pins, act like lightening rods for electrical charges between you and the many metal objects you encounter daily.
- Simmer water on the stove. As long as you’re home, a pan of water on the stove will add some water vapor to the air.
- Don’t use exhaust fans in the winter. The humidity created by bathing and cooking will add necessary humidity to the air.
Long Term Problem Solvers
Humidify the air with a whole-house humidifier or portable units. If static electricity is a continuous problem throughout your home, a whole-house system will give you the most convenience, comfort and control.
Whole-house units attach to your home’s blower compartment or air handler and send a measured amount of water vapor through the ductwork. Each room in your home will be evenly humidified. They use little electricity and require infrequent maintenance.
Portable humidifiers work for smaller areas, but they require much more maintenance than whole-house systems. They need frequent refilling and cleaning to prevent bacterial growth. They take up space on the floor or furniture and use more electricity than a whole-house system.
The shocks associated with static electricity are a sure sign that indoor air is too dry. To learn more about managing this seasonal problem, contact Mowery Heating, Cooling and Plumbing, providing HVAC services for Indianapolis homeowners.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Brownsburg, Indiana and surrounding areas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).
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