Keeping a home in good condition involves more than just cleaning on a regular schedule, but understanding when particular issues can cause harm or signal a threat. After all, no amount of vacuuming is going to prevent those subcidence cracks in the wall, and the need for foundational repair when that is evident.
But that’s something of a dramatic example. Often, the helpful maintenance of our household is about more than just those end-level scenarios, but the upkeep that may fall out of our common expectations. For example, if a pipe bursts, then it’s important to know how to turn off the water mains of your household while you call in a repair.
A rarely spoken of sign that your house is in need of immediate repair or management is that of unusual smells. We’re not just talking about dealing with a cat litter tray or keeping your compost contained, but those that really require immediate attention. With that in mind, let’s focus on a few:
Musty Odors
These smells usually signify the presence of mold or mildew, which thrive in damp, poorly ventilated areas. This can occur in any home. You might notice this scent most of all in basements, bathrooms, or even closets. It’s not just the smell you have to watch out for (though it is pretty bad), mold can cause real health risks, especially for those with respiratory issues or in children. Using residential mold removal services can help you address the problem head-on, if also nose-first.
Rotten Eggs
We might think gas smells like gas, but natural gas is actually odorless for the most part. Utility companies add a substance called “mercaptan” to give it that sulfuric, rotten egg smell as a which stinks but wisely so. If you notice this scent, don’t ignore it, it could mean a real gas leak. Evacuate your home immediately and call the appropriate authorities. Don’t try to address the issue yourself. Don’t even turn electrical appliances off, because that can cause a spark sometimes, but blow out any naked flames like candles or turn your gas stove off. Then leave and warn the appropriate authorities and neighbors if needed.
Electrical Burning
Electric burning stinks, and luckily so. It’s often accompanied by buzzing, and sometimes even a power trip. But don’t just flip the lights back on from the fuse box, call in an electrician to source and fix the issue. For example, your smell can signify overheating wires, circuits, or appliances, which is a serious fire hazard, and the last thing you need is an electrical fire to break out in an appliance where your suitable fire extinguisher can’t quite reach it – like a bathroom fan. Moreover, then you can ensure your power outages aren’t repeated or don’t lead to damage of appliances and other issues.
With this advice, you’ll be certain to watch out for the most common, gross, but ultimately helpful household smells. Just make sure to address them as appropriately as you can going forward, and don’t ignore them.
