Tips for Treating Bad Smells in Homes

Odor Treatment Process

Step 1: Ozone Treatment

The ideal sequence is always: show first, treat after lease signing, complete before move-in. If you've already run ozone before showing that's fine, but always run it again before move-in if possible.

For ongoing or moderate situations, one or two plugin ozone units are a practical alternative that allow the home to remain accessible. A single plugin at full power near the HVAC return does a solid job. Two plugins together are quite strong and better suited for more serious situations.

For severe odor situations run the large units for at least a full weekend and leave two plugins running. That requires a minimum of three separate trips so there are real costs involved for the owner or against the deposit.

Step 2: Supplemental Treatment for Serious Situations

When ozone alone isn't enough, layer in the following:

Spray bleach directly into the running HVAC air intake for approximately 15 minutes with the system actively running (heat or AC both work). Spray a Febreeze and vodka mixture on all fabric surfaces - use sparingly or skip entirely in higher-end homes. Sprinkle scented oils in room corners, which tend to last longer and stay less visible, or place standard air fresheners. In humid conditions add moisture-absorbing bags and a box fan.

Pricing:  We Can Handle These Needs

Plugin ozone units can be run at no charge for minor situations, though we should always inform the owner so we get credit for the service. For a formal treatment, one to two plugin units for up to a week including pickup and dropoff is $40. The full supplemental treatment including bleach, Febreeze mixture, and air fresheners is an additional $95, much of which is material cost. Full treatment package combining both is $135.