Why do I keep getting zapped when i use my light switches to turn on or off?

Question

light,switches,zapped

Answer 1

it is a shock when the air is dry try a humidifier

Answer 2

If it is cold where you live, the air is very dry. When it gets to be winter time, that's very common. That's why many people get chapped hands or skin or lips during this time of year, because there is not much moisture in the air to keep their skin nourished. And with the air being so dry, this creates an even more stable environment for electricity, therefore giving you a shock whenever you touch something metal or something that transmits electricity, like a lightswitch. Dryer air creates more static, which is what you're getting when you touch your switch. It happens mostly because of friction caused by you walking across the floor and then going to turn the light on. Maybe try not shuffling your feet before turning on a light and see if that helps. It's the same result as if you were to rub a filled-up ballon on your head and all your hair sticks up. That's electricity right there.

Answer 3

Do you get zapped only when touching light switches or is it anything electrical or metal?
If it's only the light switches, then you have a grounding problem.
If it's everything metal or electrical, then it's simply static electricity because of the weather.

Does it happen only on carpeted floors or also on wood, tile, and vinyl?
If it's only on carpeting, then it's most likely static electricity.
If it's on all surfaces, then, once again, you probably have a grounding problem.

For static, there are several ways to eliminate it, mostly with controlled humidity or sources of static buildup.
For grounding problems, call an electrician.

Answer 4

If you just getting a static shock its because the screws that hold the light switch cover are grounded and you have a static eletric charge from walking around your house. It your getting a sronger shock or a shock the whole time you are thouching the switch it could be a bad wire or losse connection and you should have it looked at by some one who knows about electricity.

Answer 5

The first answer that springs to my mind is because it's winter and everything is so dry, static electricity builds up easier and faster than it would in the summer.

On the other end of the spectrum and less likely to be true, is there might be a short in the switch if it's only happening with one. But it's quite likely just from dry air.

Answer 6

It's winter- everything is very dry...static electricity. :( I know... it's just not fun! Atoms are on the move and opposites attract!

Here are some tips to eliminate it:
1) Increase the humidity in your house and workplace. Air is much drier in the winter, which increases the frequency and severity of shocks. Use a humidifier.

2) Change clothes - switch to natural fibers, since synthetics pick up more of a static charge.

3) Change shoes - there are special conductive shoes in a variety of styles. They are made for people working in the electronics industry. You will need to find a store or catalogue that sells or can order them for you. (Search online for "esd shoes")

4) If your skin is very dry - try an anti-static hand lotion (also available for the electronics industry.)

Here are two suggestions for static control from another source:

1) Walk barefoot (or, as silly as it may sound, cover your shoes with aluminum foil when possible) to reduce the static buildup.

2) Wear a thimble on your finger, or carry a coin, and use them to touch grounded metal objects as often as possible. This will not eliminate the static discharge, but will stop the pain you feel in your fingertips.

3) Be sure to ground yourself before touching sensitive electronic equipment.


Static Control Products in the Workplace
People working in areas where ESD (electrostatic discharge) can damage sensitive equipment often use products designed for static control or elimination.

For static control in work areas, use anti static mats on floors and work surfaces, and have people wear anti-static wrist bands, heel straps or conductive shoes. Using an anti static spray on surfaces may also be helpful.

Special product packaging materials are also available, for example, anti static bags and anti static foam.

Answer 7

Are you getting shocked by the same switch, or all of the switches that are in the same room? You could possibly have a short in the wires. I would have the wiring checked out if all else fails.

Answer 8

gol to your fuse or breaker box turn off the power. the remove the switch cover.make sure no wres are touching each other. and not near the outlet box. better still. replce the switch. ..

Answer 9

Its probly static electricity

Answer 10

High static electricity.

Is your house humid? Do you walk around in your socks a lot?