Should I Be Concerned About the Musty Smell in My Basement?

Whether you use your basement for utility or recreation, a musty smell never adds to the experience. And, in worst-case scenarios may lead to lasting health issues.

Unfortunately, many basements are vulnerable to feeling stuffy and musty because of the humidity and moisture they naturally contain. Here are some tips to assist in identifying and fixing the potential causes of a smelly basement.

Earthy Smell in basement

If you only notice a mild, earthy smell, your basement is likely just damp. You can resolve dampness by increasing ventilation through open windows, exhaust fans, or running a heater to dry things more efficiently.

Sour Smell  from basement drain

 The presence of mold and mildew can result in a rotten, pungent smell that may cause irritation or dizziness. If you notice any obvious signs of mold or mildew, contact a professional service provider to help identify and eliminate the source of moisture. Although DIY mold remediation kits are available, it's always better to proceed with caution and call a contractor to assess the situation.

Musty Smell in basement

A musty smell is often the most noticeable sign of something wrong in your basement. This pervasive odor could stem from stagnant water or high humidity. If left unresolved, it can lead to potential health problems. Should you notice a musty smell, try to identify the source of moisture and eliminate it as soon as possible. You can use a dehumidifier to help combat excess humidity. However, running a dehumidifier alone won't offer any long-term solution if the source of the problem doesn't get fixed or addressed.

If you're uncertain about the cause of odor in the basement of your Cincinnati, Northern Kentucky, or Southeastern Indiana area home, don't waste time! The HVAC professionals at Geiler are available to promptly identify and remediate the situation. Please reach out to schedule a service call.