If you’ve been researching air purifiers for your home, you’ve undoubtedly come across and even considered one or more of the popular models of ozone machines as the solution. But, should you use an ozone machine for air purification? Are there any risks associated with an ozone machine that you should be aware of?
Obviously, the first thing that you need to understand is what ozone is, and what it does?
Essentially, ozone is a highly reactive form of oxygen. It exists naturally in the upper layers of the atmosphere. There, it does an excellent job of filtering the sun’s deadly ultraviolet (UV) rays. Ozone doesn’t, however, exist naturally near the earth’s surface, although small quantities of ozone gas are created during lighting strikes and near high-voltage electrical devices.
What’s wrong with producing ozone?
Since ozone is such a highly reactive particle, it oxidizes nearly everything it touches. Because of this, ozone can be useful in the elimination of unpleasant odors, in turn, replacing them with its own distinctive scent. Unfortunately, used incorrectly, ozone can harm living creatures, not just the bacteria and germs, but other forms of living tissue.
How does this affect you, and the ozone machine you are considering for use in your home?
The problem that we see is a lot of the information that you’ll find about ozone air purification systems is, quite simply, incorrect. Most ozone manufacturers will tell you that ozone machines are quieter, and that they fight dust, allergens, bacteria, gases, odors, etc., but what they don’t stress clearly enough is the simple fact that used incorrectly, ozone machines can and do cause serious problems.
For example, there are certain models of ozone machines that are too powerful to use when a space is occupied. These machines, which are often used in factories and industrial areas during the overnight areas, are designed to literally incinerate everything in the air as quickly as possible.
There are other models of ozone machines that are specifically designed to filter at such low levels that they can be used in inhabited areas. Some may be run continuously, while others should be turned on for a few hours and then switched off.
Should I still consider an ozone machine for my home?
While we cannot advise that you do or do not consider an ozone machine, we can advise that you study the specifications for any machine that you purchase, and follow the directions exactly. Failing to do so can cause serious problems for you, your family, and your pets.
But, when used correctly, an ozone machine does purify the air - everything from fish odors to cigarette smoke to harmful bacteria, even mold and mildew can be removed. The key is to use the ozone machine correctly and wisely!
Yesterday morning, I got into my truck…now, my truck is a “fixer-upper.” It belonged to a general contractor who used it as his “work truck,” and not only was it never cleaned before I bought it, but he also had chain smoked in it for 5 years.
