A homeowner should never ignore things around the home that suddenly seem off. This could mean that you potentially have a bigger problem brewing. Helping to educate our clients on ways to protect their property is part of our job. Here are a few things that you should pay close attention to if the issue comes up.
If you smell of rotting food but there’s nothing in the trash this can be an indicator that the dishwasher filter is clogged with old, rotting food. In order to negate the smell, remove the filter, wash it with warm water and dish soap, then replace the filter. After you replace the filter, run the dishwasher with nothing but a bowl filled with white vinegar in the top rack. If it still smells bad, running a second time with just a cup of baking soda poured into the bottom of the machine (under the spray arm).
The smell of sulfur/rotting eggs is not the same as the natural gas smell. If you notice this smell you need to get outside and call 911 immediately. This odor is likely coming from your water heater, and may be caused by corroded magnesium anode rod. This rod protects the interior lining of your water heater, and it needs to be replaced every three years or so. We recommend calling a plumber for help.
If you happen to notice brown splotches on the ceiling these are likely caused by tub and shower drains on the floor above you that have lost their seal, but HVAC may also be responsible. Sometimes a clogged line will cause condensation on the ductwork, which will drip onto the ceiling. Ceiling spots can also be caused by a leaking roof. If you are house shopping and notice a spot, ask your agent to inquire about if the leak has been fixed already.
White spots on bath fixtures and kitchen faucets as well as cloudy white spots on stainless steel faucets or shower heads are an indication of mineral buildup. This can be a sign that your water softener is not working properly, or you have hard water. To get rid of this, spray vinegar directly onto the fixtures and let it sit for 10 minutes, then scrub it off with an old toothbrush or sponge. For more serious buildup, fill a Ziploc bag with vinegar and submerge the shower head in it.
Paying attention to the signs around your home can help prevent damage or problems that could lead to bigger issues down the road. Follow Excelsior Realty for more homeowner tips, tricks and advice!
