Dry air is a common problem in the winter months, as heating your home causes moisture to be lost from your air. Dry air results in static electricity, which may seem more like a minor annoyance than anything else. However, when static builds up in your home, it can severely damage electronic equipment such as computers, televisions and blu-ray players. When the humidity level in your home is low, the simple act of plugging a USB drive into your PC may send a damaging electrical current through the computer. Thankfully, there are several ways you can decrease static electricity in your home.
Spraying curtains, upholstery and carpets with an anti-static spray helps reduce static buildup. These sprays are readily available at department stores. Alternatively, you can create your own homemade anti-static spray by mixing two tablespoons of the liquid fabric softener of your choosing with one cup of water in a clean spray bottle. Remember to test the homemade spray on an inconspicuous area of the fabric and wait 24 hours. After the allotted time has passed, examine the area. If no discoloration has occurred, continue using the anti-static spray. If there is discoloration, discontinue use.
Another way to reduce static electricity is to install a whole-house humidifier. Not only will the humidifier decrease static, it will also provide a wide array of benefits:
For more information about static electricity and humidity, contact the experts at Russell’s Heating & Cooling. Since 1977, we have provided reliable and affordable services to the southeast Virginia area.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Chesapeake, Virginia and surrounding areas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about static electricity and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide. Image courtesy of Shutterstock