How to Avoid Static Shock

One of the most annoying things about dry winter air is static electricity buildup and the shock that comes with it. Over the years, there have been so many suggestions and home remedies on how to avoid static shock. Some tell you to go barefoot, use hand lotion, or wear natural fibers.

Adding baking soda to laundry, treating clothing with unique products, or rubbing upholstery with dryer sheets are rarely effective or long-lasting. They only work at the moment because dry air is still present in the home. But when it comes right down to it. Is there a proven solution that works all winter long without fail? There is, so let’s take a look.

First, What’s Causing Static Electricity To Form?

According to the U.S. Library of Congress, “Static electricity is the result of an imbalance between negative and positive charges in an object. These charges can build up on the surface of an object until they find a way to be released or discharged. One way to discharge them is through a circuit.

The rubbing of certain materials against one another can transfer negative charges, or electrons. For example, if you rub your shoe on the carpet, your body collects extra electrons. The electrons cling to your body until they can be released. As you reach and touch your furry friend, you get a shock. Don’t worry, it is only the surplus electrons being released from you to your unsuspecting pet.” [1]

How Can You Remove The Dry Air In Your Home?

Now that we know what causes static electricity and that winter’s dry air helps compound the problem of getting shocked, how can these two be removed from your home? To permanently remove any indoor dry air and static electricity, it is found in a unique appliance known as a “Whole-Home Humidifier” that is a very effective and long-term solution.

A whole-home humidifier operates alongside a home’s heating system. What this unit does is raise your home’s indoor moisture levels, which in turn reduces the dry air inside each room. As the dry air levels drop, making it extremely difficult for static electricity to build up. With no mechanism in place to create that negative and positive imbalance, you will now avoid static shock.

What’s The Average Cost Of A Whole-Home Humidifier?

There are several factors to consider when it comes to buying and installing a whole-home humidifier. Depending on the brand and model, heating system type, your home’s square footage, and the gallons per day usage, humidifiers can range from $300 to $1,000 or more.

Also consider that any whole-home humidifier that needs connected directly to your home’s HVAC system, should be installed by a professional. Labor costs can vary significantly depending on what system you install and modifications are needed, but you should budget another $300 to $750 for labor. You should also expect the installation time will average between three to five hours. But before you take that first step, contact a local HVAC company you trust for an in-home consultation and estimate.

If you want to avoid static shock in your home, call Luxury Heating & Air Conditioning today. We are here to diagnose and be the solution to all your HVAC problems.

[1] https://www.loc.gov/everyday-mysteries/item/how-does-static-electricity-work/