We have been in the ozone industry for 8 years. We have seen all types of claims and heard some pretty outrageous statements. Here are a few items to watch out for and their explanations. They are listed from most outrageous to least.

 

This one is not claimed by many companies. Reputable companies know that ALL corona discharge ozone generators produce nitrogen oxides. This is a physical law and cannot be overcome no matter how good the corona chamber design. Nitrogen oxides are produced when nitrogen, moisture & oxygen are present in a corona field with a stainless steel metal acting as a catalyst. The scientific work of several universities & researchers all state that nitrogen oxides are produced. Now that we know nitrogen oxides are produced, the next question to ask is “At what levels are they produced” & “Are these levels dangerous to humans”?

 

All residential ozone generators have the conditions mentioned above to produce nitrogen oxides a by-product. However, the nitrogen oxide output is so low (less than 0.1% of production) from these units that they are not considered dangerous or harmful to humans. The ozone output overshadows the nitrogen oxides by a factor of 10,000 to 1. One must remember that the ozone level is also set very low when used in a home. After all, even a microwave produces radiation that is felt by humans but the level is so low that it is considered safe. Even though the nitrogen oxide production is low, one must acknowledge their existence and not pretend their units are exempt.

 

Ozone is a very powerful oxidizer that works wonderfully to eliminate odors. It has many applications, but also has limitations. Mold removal with ozone is a controversial issue that deserves explanation.

 

Ozone can kill mold but the concentrations required to do so are extremely high. Research indicates that ozone concentrations of 4- 50 PPM are required for 2 hours to effectively kill mold on the surface. Remember that mold has depth to it and ozone cannot penetrate the surface.

 

Testing in our lab shows that using a 1,000 mg/hr ozone generator in a room 10’x 10’ x 8’ high will attain an ozone residual of 0.2 PPM. Using a 5,000 mg/hr unit will produce an ozone residual of approximately 0.7 PPM. This is not theory, this is actual onsite research. As one can see, residential ozone generators cannot produce enough ozone to kill mold even in a very small room. To sum up: DO NOT PURCHASE AN OZONE GENERATOR TO KILL MOLD!!! There are less expensive ways to remove mold. Consult an indoor air quality specialist about removing mold from your home.

 

If a company is insistent that their unit will kill mold have them back it up with a guarantee and ensure you have the means for testing its effectiveness. Please call us at (888) 892-0303 for assistance.

 

One can purchase an ozone generator to remove the mold smell. However, removing the smell & killing mold are two very different actions.