Stop the Static Shocks in Your Home

You’re probably familiar with the painful jolt of a static electricity shock that can occur when you flip a light switch or kiss a family member. This problem can happen year-round but is especially common during the winter months. Fortunately, at any time of the year, there are steps you can take to reduce the amount of static electricity in your home.

Humidify Your Home

The more humid the air is, the less likely you are to get a static electricity shock. When the air is moist, electrons don’t stick to you. Once the air dries out, however, you have a tendency to accumulate free electrons. Touch an object that’s able to conduct electricity, and those free electrons can turn into a painful zap.

During the cold months in Charlotte, NC, household air can be quite dry. Running a humidifier in the winter – or anytime that your air is dry – can reverse this problem. Whole-house humidifiers can be especially helpful because they add moisture to the air throughout your house.

Other Tips for Reducing Static

Although running a humidifier is the best way to reverse your static problem, there are other small things you can do to help.

To reduce static:

  • Apply anti-static sprays to carpets and clothing
  • Wear anti-static shoes, or go barefoot on carpet
  • Add green plants to your living spaces
  • Don’t shuffle your feet when you walk
  • Put on hand lotion

Dehumidify with Care

Since humidifiers are known for reducing static, you might worry that using a dehumidifier will automatically create a static problem. That’s not necessarily true, however, so don’t be afraid to use a dehumidifier when necessary.

The trick is to use the right size of dehumidifier so that you don’t take too much humidity from the air. Having a dehumidifier installed by a professional is the best way to make sure that you use the right equipment size for your home.

If you’re looking to install humidifiers or dehumidifiers in the Charlotte or Denver areas, contact Integrity Heating & Cooling today.

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