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Smells in Your Home You Should Not Ignore

Smell is a powerful sense that can instantly evoke emotions and memories. In the context of a home, certain smells can be a sign of trouble that should not be ignored. Here are some common smells in a home that could indicate an underlying issue:

Musty or Mildewy Smell

A musty or mildewy smell in a home is often a sign of mold growth. Mold grows in damp, dark environments such as basements, bathrooms, and kitchens. It can cause respiratory problems, allergies, and other health issues, so it's essential to address mold growth as soon as possible.

Rotten Egg Smell

A rotten egg smell in a home could be a sign of a gas leak. Natural gas is odorless, so gas companies add a chemical called mercaptan to give it a distinctive smell. If you notice a rotten egg smell, turn off the gas supply and call a professional immediately.

Burning or Smoky Smell

A burning or smoky smell in a home could indicate an electrical problem or a fire. It could be caused by overloaded electrical circuits, damaged wiring, or appliances that are overheating. Turn off the power and unplug any appliances that may be the cause of the smell. If you cannot identify the source of the smell, evacuate the home, and call the fire department.

Sewage Smell

A sewage smell in a home is often a sign of a plumbing issue. It could be caused by a blocked sewer line, a dry P-trap, or a malfunctioning septic system. A sewage smell can also be harmful to health and should be addressed immediately.

Chemical Smell

A chemical smell in a home could be caused by cleaning products, paint, or other chemicals. While some chemicals are harmless, others can be toxic and cause respiratory problems, headaches, or dizziness. If you notice a strong chemical smell, open windows, and doors to ventilate the area and avoid using the product until you can determine its safety.

Foul Odors

Foul odors in a home can be caused by a variety of issues, including rotting food, dead animals, or pet waste. These odors can attract pests, cause health problems, and lower the quality of life in the home. It's essential to identify and remove the source of the smell promptly.

Ultimately, there are a lot of smells that come in and out of a home. Some mean nothing, while some can spell trouble. If you notice any of the smells mentioned above, it's important to address the issue immediately to avoid health hazards, property damage, or safety risks.

Not only are we excited to get families into their dream homes here at Ripple Creek, but we want to make sure that homeowners are armed with all the knowledge they need to make home owning successful. Part of how we aim to do that is through blog articles like this one! If you find this article helpful, why not browse some of our other articles? From helpful tips to design inspiration, we cover it all on our blog page.

By Ripple Creek Homes 3-23-2023