Stop the Shocks—Win the Battle Against Static Electricity

Static electricity becomes more of a nuisance in the winter, as most of us know. That’s because cold, dry air increases both the incidence of static electricity problems and the severity of shocks. If your hair becomes “flyaway,” your clothes stick to you, or every thing you touch zaps you with an annoying shock, you’ve encountered static electricity. The comfort specialists at Gross Heating & Air Conditioning offer these tips on how to minimize static electricity inside your home:

• Quickly assess humidity levels with the “3-3 ice test.” To assess the humidity level in a room that seems too dry and uncomfortable, put three ice cubes in a glass of water and stir several times. Wait for three minutes and then check the outside of the glass. If you don’t see moisture beads, the air is too dry. The test won’t work in the kitchen or bathrooms as humidity levels fluctuate too much to measure. But clues like mold, condensation on mirrors, windows, and patio doors, or musty odors indicate excess humidity in these rooms.
• Use a humidifier. One of the best ways to reduce static electricity is through climate control. Keep the levels in your home between 40 to 50 percent. Using a humidifier will naturally reduce static cling and shocks by adding moisture to the air.
• A whole-house humidifier like those offered by Carrier can do more than just prevent static electricity—it can improve the energy efficiency of your heating system by as much as 15 to 20 percent. Here’s why: A dramatic drop in moisture levels in cold, dry winter months can make your home seem cooler than it actually is and cooler than the thermostat reads. Once the humidity in your home is managed well, you will be able to comfortably lower the thermostat. Your furnace won’t be using a high amount of energy to provide the warmth you need.

Controlling moisture and maintaining proper humidity levels is the key to reducing static. Find more information on static electricity here.