Is activated charcoal for odor control the same as charcoal used for BBQ?

Question

I want to get rid of a musty smell in my basement.

Answer 1

Save the charcoal for steak, they are not the same! Diamonds are made from carbon too, but they won't kill basement odor. Bleach any areas that have mold and get a dehumidifier.

Answer 2

Open up the windows.  run fans,  buy a "de"humidifier and drain it to the sump pit and pump it outside or to sewer.  

Answer 3

I've read some on this and they are very different.  The process to make activated carbon is what makes it extremely porous and absorbent.   There is a product that I read about and tried called FridgeIT odor absorbers.   It is an activated carbon filter that is inexpensive and works really really well.   I bought it for my fridge originally and had such good results, I use it in other places too now.

You can get it at kitchen gadget stores and also on line.

www.innofresh.com

Answer 4

No, activated charcoal has been treated to make it super porous, giving it much more surface area to absorb and filter.  BBQ charcoal may work but much much slower.  Even the activated charcoal will work best as a filter through which the air can be forced rather than just waiting for it to absorb the odors.