9 Concerning Odors in Your Home

Your sense of smell is a valuable tool in protecting your family and your home. You can detect gas leaks that require immediate action or mold growth that leads to health issues. When you notice a new smell around the house, it’s essential to understand whether or not it is a sign that something is wrong. If you smell concerning odors in your home, it could indicate a problem.

Sulfur Odor

You might notice this odor if you use natural gas for your clothes dryer, stove, or home heating. Gas is highly flammable, mainly when concentrated indoors. It’s colorless and hard to detect, other than its scent. If your home smells like rotten eggs, get your family out and call a professional to find the source of the fuel leak.

Sewage Odors in Your Home

When you notice a foul smell in your bathroom, it’s time to call a plumber. The odor of sewage might indicate a minor plumbing problem, like a dry P-trap due to disuse, or a more serious issue, like a broken sewer pipe. Sewer gas can make you sick, so address this odor right away.

Smells Near Electronics

If you notice your home smells strange around a power outlet, you might have an electrical issue. Components may create a burning or fishy smell when they overheat. Call an electrician to determine the source of the problem.

Wet Pet Odor

The odor of a wet dog is distinct and unpleasant. While it could be you’ve just bathed the dog, this smell might indicate rodent activity in your house.

New Paint Smells

If you just painted or have moved into a new home, you might notice a fresh paint smell in the house. When paints have high levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), you could feel nauseous or develop a headache. Open windows and turn on fans to circulate fresh air throughout the house.

Burning or Smoky Smells

Never ignore a burning smell inside of your home. You may have overheated outlets or wires if you smell ozone, which smells fresh and clean, reminiscent of chlorine. Cut the power to the affected area and call an electrician.

Odors in Your Home: Mildew or Mold

Mold growth in a home is often described as having a musty or damp smell. Finding it early and removing mold is necessary to prevent it from spreading throughout your living spaces.

Vinegar Odors in Your Home

If your home smells like vinegar, it could be because some furnishings in a home are treated with formaldehyde. This substance could be in carpets, upholstery, flooring, and furniture. The smell will dissipate over time; however, this could take several months, depending on the material.

Earthy or Damp Smells

If you don’t have a mold problem, a damp, earthy smell could indicate the presence of rotting wood somewhere in your house. This could be due to plumbing or roof leaks and water damage.

Strange smells in the home might indicate a problem. If you notice an unusual odor, hire a professional to find the source of the smell and make repairs.

Exceptional Engineering Home Inspections provides inspection services to homebuyers and sellers in Mariposa County in Arizona. Contact us to schedule an appointment.