Removing musty smell in finished large basement


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Old 07-15-17, 05:44 AM
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Removing musty smell in finished large basement

I've got a smell in the finished basement. I need to get rid of it. This is about a 1500 sq foot basement in an L shape with entrances at either end. I have an AC running down there to keep the moisture down most of the time.
 
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Old 07-15-17, 05:51 AM
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It's not uncommon to need to run a dehumidifier in a basement, it should help with the musty smell.
 
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Old 07-15-17, 07:53 AM
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The unfortunate part is the moisture issue that is contributing to that musty smell (often related to mold) may be behind those finished walls. Options include sharing your ac down there and/or running a good dehumidifier. If that doesn't do it, remove all of the wall finishing and start over. may be a few steps inbetween like outside landscaping. Inspect for moisture sources and cross your fingers.

Yes, I'm pessimistic.
Bud
 
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Old 07-17-17, 08:10 AM
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Have you measured the humidity level?
 
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Old 07-18-17, 11:39 AM
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Humidity level is within normal parameters for GA. I put on a dehumidifier and it's taking care of it. I think I have a dead rat in the walls or something.

We had a moisture problem when we bought the house, but put in a vapor barrier, french drain, etc. In the summer you do get sweaty in the "main" basement but the humidity gauge isn't getting high. I have two portable dehumidifiers running, one in the far side of the basement that does have a problem, and this area. I'm planning on putting in a pair of Santa Fe units, one for each area shortly.
 
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Old 07-18-17, 11:48 AM
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Humidity level is within normal parameters for GA
I have no idea what that means. Regardless, you want to shoot for 50%, higher is when you start seeing and smelling issues.
 
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Old 07-19-17, 08:58 AM
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Got it. Dehumidifiers it is then. What is recommended for a large L-shaped space? Should I put one at each end? The basement is finished in a lot of the area. Would putting a large one near the AC intake be better?
 
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Old 07-19-17, 10:12 AM
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I think it depends on airflow. In my basement, I can get it done with one unit but I had to open the AC vent in that room to push the air out once I sheetrocked the back side of one of the utility room walls.
 
 

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