Does your hair instantly stand up when you enter your home? Do you find yourself getting shocked when you touch a doorknob or find your clothes rather clingy? If you’ve answered “yes” to any of these questions, there is likely a build-up of static electricity in your home. But why?
Static electricity buildup is most commonly found in areas with overly dry air. Without proper humidification, static electricity becomes much more noticeable and can be quite a nuisance. During the winter, air is much dryer than it is during other parts of the year, so without proper humidification, your home is significantly more vulnerable to static electricity buildup. Investing in a whole-house humidifier in Crozet, VA is the best way to reduce the impact of static electricity and boost your comfort!
How Humidity Affects Static Electricity
Static electricity is the buildup of electrical charge on the surface of an object. The charge remains until it able to move away by means of an electric current or electrical discharge. Static electricity occurs when there is a separation of positive and negative charges. When two materials come into contact, electrons might move from one material to the other, leaving protons behind. The sudden transfer of electric charges is what causes static shocks, clingy clothes, and crazy hair.
Moisture acts as a conductor, allowing electric charges to move freely. When there is adequate moisture (humidity) in the air, static electricity is unable to build up on surfaces and materials in your home. To maximize comfort and reduce static electricity buildup in your home, it is recommended that your relive humidity level is between 30% and 50%.
Installing a Humidifier
Though static electricity doesn’t pose a threat to your health, it does have the potential to damage delicate computer components and other electronic devices. Installing a humidifier is the best way to protect expensive electronic devices. Plus, proper home humidification is a major benefit to your health and furnishings! Read our previous blogs to learn more about the health benefits of proper humification.
If you have a static electricity problem in your home, a portable humidifier is not going to be an effective way to resolve the issue. You need a whole-house humidifier if you wish to mitigate the effects of static electricity buildup.
Installing a new humidifier is a job best left to the professionals. To work properly, your whole-house humidifier must be correctly integrated with your existing HVAC system, which requires experience and expertise. Our technicians here at Mack Morris Heating & Air Conditioning have been updating HVAC systems with devices since 1985. In addition to installation, we offer humidifier repair services. These systems are very durable but can be affected if you have problems with your ductwork, or if they were installed improperly by an amateur. Your comfort matters to us. Trust us to improve your indoor air quality this winter.
To get started on whole-house humidification, contact Mack Morris Heating & Air Conditioning.