Static: What Causes It & How to Reduce It This Winter
As temperatures drop and fall turns into winter, we see welcome and unwelcome signs of this seasonal shift. While many of us love returning to sweater weather, even more of us dislike static shocks.
We are all familiar with the sudden, unexpected shocks that momentarily stop us in our tracks. This could happen when petting your household pet or touching a doorknob. This jarring jolt may seem inevitable. But by understanding why static occurs and how to reduce static in your home, you can reduce the static shocks and cling experienced this time of year.
What Causes Static?
Static is caused by dry winter air entering your home. Small leaks in your ductwork and exterior walls allow this outdoor air inside. This outside air then circulates through the air distribution system, drying out the indoor air. In the fall and winter months, this outside air is cold. Cold air contains low moisture and even extracts moisture out of the air, which yields dry air.
Dry air produces static, which generates static electricity and causes objects to cling. But perhaps more concerning, this air can irritate airways, resulting in respiratory and sinus issues. Outdoor air infiltrating the home through small, inaccessible leaks also lets airborne bacteria and other viruses into the home. Not to mention coughing and even laughing distributes these pathogens more easily through dry air.
Tips to Reducing Static in the Home
The ideal relative humidity in the home is between 30% and 50%. There are three methods to reach this ideal humidity and reduce dry, staticky air:
- Install a humidifier to add moisture to your indoor air during winter months
- Leave bathroom door open when showering and let boiling water evaporate into air when cooking
- Seal your home to target leaks that are allowing dry air to enter the indoor environment
Homeowners can see a difference in their home atmosphere by heeding these three suggestions. This will help lock in home comfort and secure your home environment for the coming season.