If you’ve recently moved homes and your new abode smells less than pleasant, you’re not alone. Many homeowners who move into previously owned houses may experience an unpleasant odor, often characterized as a “musty” scent.
Although your home is not doomed to an “old house” smell forever, it’s essential to understand the various sources contributing to the smell. Accurately identifying the root of the musty odor can allow homeowners to completely eradicate the scent and maintain a smell-free home. We’re diving into the most common culprits responsible for a musty-smelling home.
Mold or Mildew
We all know how humid the warmest days in Wisconsin can be! While this humidity is just as uncomfortable outside, excessive moisture in your home can promote the growth of mold and mildew. Mold and mildew thrive in moist, damp environments. If you’re not managing your home’s humidity levels, there could be dreaded mildew or mold infestations creeping among your house.
If mold or mildew growth is overlooked, there’s a high possibility that its odor will permeate multiple rooms, furniture, and carpet. Preventing a mold infestation is simple. Installing a dehumidifier to eradicate any excess moisture in your home’s air can help prevent mold or mildew from setting up camp inside your house in the first place.
Our team at Southport Home Services understands how uncomfortable it can be to breathe and relax in a humid home. For expert dehumidifier installation services, give us a call, and we’ll be right out to provide you with a lasting solution for your home.
Minimal Air Flow
Let’s say your home has spent a significant amount of time with all of the windows and doors shut. It’s no surprise that the lack of fresh air can bring “old home” or musty scents to the forefront of your house.
To combat this unpleasant odor, air out your home! Ensure the HVAC system is turned off to prevent energy waste, then open those doors and windows. You can also turn on any fans to promote additional airflow. Keep that air moving, and the scent will be gone in no time.
Old Spills or Messes
Perhaps the previous owners of your home did not tend to spills or accidents throughout the house. Unfortunately, the odors from old messes or pet accidents can stick around for quite some time if not attended to. Liquids spilled on carpets can seep deep into the fibers and padding, making it difficult to remove stubborn stains and odors.
If you’ve investigated your home’s carpet and believe it is salvageable, a professional carpet cleaning is always an effective solution for a nice refresh. However, if the carpet has been subjected to years of wear, tear, and stains, it may be time to replace it altogether.
Lingering Smoke
Some of the most stubborn scents to remove from a home are cigarette and cigar smoke. If the previous owners of your home smoked inside, you’ll most likely encounter the lingering smell of cigarette or cigar smoke. Smoke can seep into both drywall and carpet, leaving the scent for years to come.
If you believe that your home has been subjected to smoke, it’s recommended to replace the carpet and repaint the walls to help rid your home of the odor. It’s especially important to consistently manage your indoor air quality to ensure the scent is completely ridden from your property.
Whole House Dehumidifier Services
When you’re ready to take control of your home’s indoor air quality, trust our experienced team at Southport Home Services for expert whole-house dehumidifier services. We understand how frustrating it can be to be trapped in a hot and humid home, which is why we’re dedicated to utilizing state-of-the-art products to help you breathe easier. Give us a call at 1-888-474-0277 or fill out our online contact form, and a team member will be in touch with you shortly.
