A strong, rotten smell that seems to come from the vents, getting worse when the system runs, often means a mouse, rat or other small animal has died in the ductwork. It is unpleasant, but it can be fixed.
Finding the source
Follow your nose from vent to vent. The smell is usually strongest near the problem. Remove vent covers and look in with a flashlight. If you can't find it, the animal may be deeper in the ducts, in the attic, or in a crawlspace.
Clean up safely
- Wear rubber or disposable gloves and avoid stirring up dust.
- Spray the animal and the area with disinfectant before removing it.
- Seal it in a plastic bag and dispose of it as your local waste service directs.
- Disinfect the area and wash your hands well afterward.
Stop it from happening again
Animals get into ducts through gaps and torn duct sections. After cleanup, have the ductwork inspected and sealed. If the smell lingers, a professional duct cleaning will sanitize and deodorize the system.
If you would rather not handle any of it, call us. We will find the problem and fix the ductwork.
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