Computer rooms are humidified to protect the computer’s sensitive electronic components from electrostatic discharge. Electrostatic discharge is a voltage transient. Like other voltage transients, it can severely damage semiconductor-based electronic components. Unlike other voltage transients, electrostatic discharge can be affected by the environment in the computer room.

Humidification or humidity level maintenance can reduce the likelihood and severity of electrostatic discharge. To introduce the moisture required to maintain humidity at desirable levels involves some attention to air temperatures. Computer rooms usually require year round cooling. Introducing moisture to the room through the cooling system maybe economical, but not always practical. If this is the case, an alternate air flow in which to introduce moisture should be considered.