What is an Odor?

Odors are gases which emanate from a source into the air, where they are perceived.  Whether they smell pleasant or unpleasant, odors are gases that people notice. 

“Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are emitted as gases from certain solids or liquids. VOCs include a variety of chemicals, some of which may have short- and long-term adverse health effects.  Organic chemicals are widely used as ingredients in household products. Paints, varnishes; and wax all contain organic solvents, as do many cleaning, disinfecting, cosmetic, degreasing and hobby products. Fuels are made up of organic chemicals. All of these products can release organic compounds while you are using them, and, to some degree, when they are stored.” Source EPA

Microbial volatile organic compounds (MVOCs) are a variety of compounds formed in the metabolism of fungi and bacteria. They are find after a water damage, sewage back up, trauma or crime scene, and mold damage.

Odors are perceived when odorous molecules contact olfactory nerve endings in the nasal cavities; these sensations are transmitted to the brain. Industry professionals refer to this as “real odors”.

“Heightened Awareness Odor” or “Psychological Odors” are terms used by some to describe odors which people believe they smell, based on experiences, suggestions and past impressions.  The fact that we do not smell an odor does not mean that the odor does not exist. For example, sometimes a homeowner will perceive an odor after professional deodorization and restoration of a fire damaged structure has occurred.  The likely cause of this perception is the lack of the normal odors that were in the structure before the fire.  Because the structure does not smell “normal”  (what customer has been used to). 

The Process:

A professional and detail inspection is required to eliminate the odor problem.  After identifying the source of an odor, the more of that source you can remove the less of an odor problem you will have to handle.  In pet odor situations, for instance, disposal of contaminated carpet padding and pretreatment of affected textiles with an acid rinse will dramatically improve the results. 

There are several options and methods for treating the odor after the source has been eliminated. Whith the help of Air Filtration devices,  pressure or compression sprayers, wet foggers, thermal foggers, ozone generators, and Hydroxyl generators we can neutralize the odor, apply anti-microbials and biocides to counteract or mask the smoke odor.   

Air duct cleaning might be necessary to successfully eliminated and odor, since the system circulate the air all over the house.