Jeff Flowers on January 15, 2015 165 Comments There is a growing amount of written material regarding the use of ozone generators to improve indoor air quality. Unfortunately, much of the material makes claims and draws conclusions without substantiation or sound science. There are even some vendors which suggest that their devices have been approved by the federal government, despite the fact that there is not one agency within the federal government which has approved ozone generators for use in occupied spaces. The EPA published several documents which highlight the risks and dangers of ozone and why ozone generators should be avoided. Let’s take a look at why you should never use an ozone generator to help improve your indoor air quality. Why is Ozone Dangerous? Ozone is a tiny molecule which is composed of three oxygen atoms. It is highly reactive which makes it an unstable and potentially toxic gas. Ground-level ozone is considered to be a major component of smog which plagues larger cities during the summertime and has been tied to a variety of potential health risks. Health Effects of Ozone The EPA has reported there is a variety of health effects associated with high levels of ozone. This may include decreased lung function, throat irritation, severe asthma symptoms, cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, irritation of lung tissue, and the higher sensitivity to respiratory infection. They went on to note that there were additional risk factors which can perpetuate the side effects of ozone such as undertaking activities which raise breathing rates (such as exercising indoors), certain pre-existing lung diseases, and greater duration of exposure. 4 Reasons Why You Should Avoid Air Purifiers that Produce Ozone Not only is ozone potentially dangerous to your health, it may not even work at all. Below are four reasons why you should never use an air purifier that produces ozone. 1. Ozone Generators May Not Work at All Some manufacturers suggest that ozone will render nearly every chemical contaminant in the home harmless by producing a chemical reaction. This is incredibly misleading because a thorough review of scientific research has shown that in order for many of the dangerous chemicals found indoors to be eliminated the chemical reaction process may take months or even years. Other studies have also (PDF) noted that ozone cannot effectively remove carbon monoxide or from outside. If used at concentrations that do not exceed public health standards, ozone applied to indoor air pollution does not effectively remove viruses, mold, bacteria, or other biological pollutants. 2. The Chemical Reaction Can Be Dangerous Even if ozone generators were proven to be effective at eliminating these chemicals, there are certain side effects everyone must be aware of. Many of the chemicals ozone reacts to results in a variety of harmful by-products. For example, when ozone was mixed with chemicals from new carpet in a laboratory setting, the ozone reduced many of the chemicals but created a variety of dangerous organic chemicals in the air. While the target chemicals were reduced, the dangerous byproducts rendered the process moved. 3. Ozone Generators Do Not Remove Particulates A third factor to consider when looking at ozone generators is that they do not remove particulates such as dust or pollen from the air. This includes the particles which are primarily responsible for allergic reactions. To combat this, some ozone generators include an ionizer which disperses negatively charged ions into the air. In recent analysis’s, this process was found to be less competent in the removal of air-borne molecules of dust, smoke, pollen, and mold spores than HEPA filters and electrostatic precipitators. 4. It Is Impossible to Predict Exposure Levels The EPA notes that it is increasingly difficult to determine the actual concentration of ozone produced by an ozone generator because so many different factors come into play. Concentrations will be higher if more powerful devices used in smaller spaces. Whether or not the interior doors are closed rather than open will affect concentrations as well. Additional factors which affect concentration levels include how many materials and furnishings are in the room to react with ozone, the level of outdoor air ventilation, and the proximity of a person to the ozone generating device. HEPA Filters: The Safer & More Effective Solution Choosing a HEPA filter is a significantly safer and effective solution than an ozone generator. Instead of releasing dangerous ozone, a HEPA filter traps indoor air pollutants rather than trying to create a chemical reaction with them. HEPA filters are the only type of air cleaners which meet specific EPA standards for efficacy. This means when you purchase an air purifier which relies on this type of technology, you can rest easy knowing exactly what the level of effectiveness will be. In many cases, this type of filter is often combined with other technologies, such as activated carbon, to provide even better results. Utilizing a pre-filter and activated carbon, air purifiers can remove solid, chemical, and gaseous pollutants from the air and dramatically improve indoor air quality.
Aimee Trader says February 2, 2015 at 11:22 pm My Middle Daughter has terrible allergies. This looks like an air purifier would help so much! Reply
JoAnn Milkeraitis says September 21, 2017 at 9:37 am I’ve had one for 15 years and it works great. Our daughter had problems with being sick constantly until we got our Breeze machine. If you run it on low it keeps the air clean and fresh, and never run the sanitizer unless your going to be gone. When you come home dust and vacuum, it get’s rid of all hair, dog hair. I love using it in our bedroom when changing sheets. Put it on your bed and hit sanitizer, 2hours later dust, vacuum mattress then make your bed. Reply
Dee H. says October 30, 2017 at 1:04 am Did you say it gets rid of dog hair or the danger from dogs’ skin? It would be amazing if these devices could disintegrate dog hair. I’d buy a hundred of them. Reply
Theresa Downing says August 16, 2018 at 1:25 pm I agree that it DOES work. Bought an inexpensive small one as we had water come into our basement-so what do you have after you dry it up? Musty smells, well it took the musty smell out and has a fresh out door smell! Did follow the directions and not have anyone in the room while it was running. Love the machine. Don;t know why I did not buy this years ago. Reply
Lee Zugay says December 1, 2018 at 7:40 am Ozone has no other brand but an irritant. Ozone is one of the most effective cleaning agents to purify water. and air. When using one in your home, you probably shouldn’t be in the same room if the concentration gets to high. Even in the most advanced ozone generators using pure oxygen as the feed gas the efficiency rarely goes above 15%. in these little home units the output of ozone is in the 1% range as a matter of efficiency. The air you are using only contains 20% O2. it does kill, odors, mold, mildew, taste in water. When injected into water it will destroy everything it comes into contact with. But we easily destroy O3 by passing it over a catalyst bed. it dissipate quickly in its gas form. Whoever researched this did not do their homework. I am a lead controls engineer for Xylem, we have been making these generators for decades. Trust me, its not as bad as this author is making it sound. When a lightning storm passes, the fresh smell in the air is ozone. It is created naturally in our atmosphere. If it was as toxic as they say, millions would die as lightning strikes occur, Reply
Michael Murphy says December 4, 2015 at 11:22 am Thanks for the information on the danger of ozone generating filters. I just purchased two more as I have been using two for a couple of years. I will now return the two I purchased and look for a safer way to get quality air. Reply
one-forty-plus says March 5, 2016 at 7:30 pm To ” T ” – please educate yourself by READING and researching reputable sources regarding ozone generator safety in the home. Many variables determine whether or not ozone generators in the home can be dangerous.. for instance, do you know what concentration of ozone is safe to breathe for human lungs… perhaps you might start with the EPA, and progress to medical studies (which may be found on websites of the most reputable medical institutions. Understand that ozone is different FORM of oxygen, an by its molecular nature – is an air pollutant at ground level in certain concentrations.. it also is harmful to the lungs of animals (which includes mammals, so HUMANS.) Perhaps a basic chemistry class for you?? Reply
Dee H. says October 30, 2017 at 1:11 am Agree in one sense, Ozone O3 a very weakly bonded molecule in high concentrations can be irritating and even harmful to the upper respiratory structures and even lungs if breathed in before the molecule’s bonds break & the Ozone simply forms O2 molecule which of course is not at all dangerous. I think it’s important for those who don’t understand the chemistry, bonds & strength of the molecular bonds, to consider whether the pollutants the Ozone generators DO remove are more or less harmful than the Ozone in higher concentrations. Granted, I wouldn’t stand next to an actively operating Ozone generator while it’s working, but its structure is so quickly broken down into a non-harmful substance, the benefits could surely outweigh the risks, NO? Reply
Neil says September 9, 2018 at 1:33 pm But will it kill bacteria and mold as CPAP cleaner ads say it will?
phil dert says March 23, 2018 at 11:41 am @one-forty-plus Of course Ozone is unsafe to breathe…. if you’re using ozone in an occupied space, you’re an idiot and deserve to die. LEAVE THE SPACE, let ozone clean it, get rid of the smell and bacteria, let it sit (UNOCCUPIED) for a minimum 2 hours after treatment, and the odors are gone…. it also kills bugs, vermin, MOLD, everything else. Don’t leave your pets or plants in a space being treated, ozone will damage or kill them too. Try killing mold with a HEPA filter, good luck with that. Reply
Bill says October 7, 2018 at 8:03 pm Thanks for some old fashioned common sense! I got a small unit for a townhouse I just moved into. The previous resident, which I wasn’t told about, was a smoking fiend. AND he started a fire in the place! No amount of any kind of primer or paint will get rid of the odor that leaches into everything. I haven’t used it yet but will do so soon.
DENISE WALKER says October 12, 2018 at 9:48 am Thank you for your comment. My basement was recently flooded because of a sewerage backup from outside and it erupted in my basement with 3 feet of sewerage water. The water has since receded with my portable sump pump and is now dry, but mold and mildew have formed and there is a bad stench. No one is occupying the basement, so I think I will be safe.
scott r weaver says June 7, 2018 at 1:32 pm keep believing what the government tells you they have been in use in Europe for years. like there isnt a cure for cancer either…….um ok. Reply
Francis says October 22, 2016 at 7:19 am Hi – gosh – im new to all this, I have done a bit of research but im now throughly confused 🙁 My partners home (an old wooden boat ) has tested high / Postive to toxic black mould & aspergillus. The mycotoxins I believe are everywhere. I have been unable to visit hIm for 4 years and are careful not to carry the spores to my house. I struggle with chest pain – no voice – laboured breathing – numbness – eyes and nose irritation to mention a few. The smallest contact and I will start coughing – get flutters in chest and low for days – im in a permanent state of fatigue and doing exercise which I love now exhausts me. My partner is talking about getting an ozone machine and doing the ozone shock treatment.. Anyone had experience with this success rate ? Does it kill toxic blac mould and aspergillus spores? What about the mycotoxins ? how do we sort mycotoxins out as I believe these dead remains are a main contender in hurting our health. Sorry if im asking silly questions im so depressed with it all. We believe we have removed the source (under shower) on a boat you can imagine there are many areas to cover — does this oZone clear porous clothes where i believe things are stuck in jumpers etc Look forward to any feedback. Reply
Lucy says February 17, 2017 at 8:31 pm Francis did you find answers to your questions? I’d be interested in hearing what you have found out, please let me know…… thanks L.A.
Dear Me. says February 28, 2017 at 6:43 pm Move out of the wooden boat. You can’t kill mold in water, it will come back. Ozone generator is just a temporary fix. Just use common sense and listen to your body. Black soil around river bank, your garden is mold. Most health freaks and advisors on internet like me have no proof for anything they say.
Ozone, be responsible, it can be your friend or enemy. says March 12, 2017 at 10:35 am I bought an ozone generator off of ebay, the one with the highest output (22 something per whatever). We had about 4 inches of water in the basement after the main backed up. Mold problems, obviously with carpet, I did several shock treatments with it and yes….it works grrrreat. If you are over exposed to ozone you will get some adverse affects, raspy throat, is on the lighter side of the scale. If exposed to extremely concentrated ozone it will physically damage your respiratory system. Extremely concentrated like walking into a room that has been sealed with ozone generator running for hours and taking a huge wiff. Its like smelling strong bleach in a way. This happened to me while ozoning my garage, irritated the shit out of my nostril (took several weeks for that sinus area to return to normal feeling), the ozone gen had been running for a day, I wanted to see what would happen with a tiny inhale, not big enough wiff to reach my lungs. You could shock treat a room in the house, and then air out that room, when done, and not worry about the inhabitants of the house, but the room itself should be left uninhabited for at least 24 hours I’d say. I had a window open to air it out for some hours and then opened the door, it was fine to walk into and be in the room I just wouldn’t recommend spending the night in the room, hence the raspy throat experience. With my high output ozone gen about 30 minutes to an hour running was enough to create shock treatment for the whole basement. I could totally go down and turn off the thing, not loitering or taking deep breaths for safety. And the up stairs did not get flooded or anything, I could go down and do laundry and come back. It takes about 3 days for all the lingering airborne ozone to all be reverted to pure o2. The shorter time of 30 minutes quoted in many places is for ozone in water. Some ozone is going to break down from interacting with microbial life. So the fine line that everyone is still searching for is when does ozone reach the “too much” mark…..I dunno, I have had very little adverse response to it myself. In high concentration, it is not a good thing, but you have to put effort into creating that high concentration outside of sticking your face into the generator and huffing it for a period of time (don’t do that of course) otherwise its going to disperse into the ambient surrounding, even better so with a box fan running. Keeping the concentration low is key, but the “if you can smell it the ozone its too high comment” is questionable. Long term exposure like this, like maybe constantly for a day, as in 24 hours straight, yeah probably, but like, for that day, maybe during shock treatment….no. I’ve flooded the basement with the generator for about 15 minutes, and then turned on the furnace fan to flood the upstairs. This a good way to apply it to the whole house and keep concentration minimal. I’ve done with this with a house full of people. It freshens the whole house. Once again I keep in mind that at low concentrations maybe long term exposure is the risk so thus, I might do this once a month, and now I’m trying to learn more, as to if I could do this following a sickness to keep the virus/bacteria from spreading. The reason why you find people talking in the lines of “Exactly. They don’t want people to know that ozone is not harmful. In fact, the opposite may be true.” is because many, including myself, find that natural remedies, easily had remedies, are truly suppressed. The talk about what many consider to be conspiracy about medical drug companies not wanting people to fall away from their consumer base, is real deal. You’ll find some articles claiming how dangerous ozone is, but then search ozone therapy and you’ll find that you can go pay money to be exposed to ozone..? With claims of ozone being able to attack cancer as well as a host of other health benefits? How do you go from ozone is dangerous to ozone being of health benefit? it would take professional scientific evaluation to draw the definitive line….but if big pharma is against the philosophy of cheap, effective, do it yourself, cure-alls, then its and uphill battle for that level of research to be executed. And of course some people are going to be more sensitive than others to it, so what might be an ok level of exposure for you might not match your neighbor. I have asthma, always have. No asthma or breathing problems I can speak of, related to ozone exposure, outside of the incidents cited. Do your research and use responsibly and I believe that you can achieve positive results with shock treatments. Everyday use is not needed in my experience. If you want to be super safe shock treat the whole house and leave for the weekend. Or just shock treat a room at a time and never have to leave the house. You can literally sterilize your house with this stuff, kill off beg bugs and other invasive insects with a serious shock treatment if you had to. It works. Once again if you shock treat a space and want nothing to do with the ozone you are going to have to wait 3 days. In the comment below where a persons whole house was shocktreated, and they came back the next day….no fucking duh you couldn’t be in the house. The people who told you it was ok to return the next day are assholes for misleading you. Imagine the amount of ozone it would take to shock treat a whole house. If it takes 3 days for it naturally break back down, imagine the the amount still in the house the next day. If it where just one room, you can consider that the untreated air, mingling with the treated air is not only going to diffuse and lower concentration along with the microbial life in the untreated air deactivating the ozone but in that case the whole house was saturated.
jeff van wieren says February 10, 2018 at 12:41 am I’m a contractor and have had cruising boats, I’d bleach everything and sand and paint. Keep it dry or it’s rotting and you with it.
phil dert says March 23, 2018 at 11:52 am There are mold remediation professional that handle this sort of issue everyday. Ozone is the only way to completely destroy mold in the AIR, but you need to treat the source, otherwise reinfection will continue. Ozone is an unstable molecule of 3 oxygens, it will naturally dissipate in around 2 hours. Find a mole remediation specialist, or do some research on the internet on how to permanently remove mold People that think ozone is “dangerous” are generally clueless as to what it is or safe practices to using it.
Bann says October 2, 2016 at 11:06 pm Exactly. They don’t want people to know that ozone is not harmful. In fact, the opposite may be true. Reply
Dee H. says October 30, 2017 at 1:19 am A big 10-4 on that comment Ozone is not dangerous or harmful after it’s been broken down into the stabile oxygen molecules. I’d love to know the brand of O3 generator “Ozone be responsible…” uses. need one for a shore home that invites fungi, molds & mildew like crazy. It’s insane trying to find which units are reliable, reasonably affordable & will hold up. Wish someone would do a top-ten and that someone is not connected with some company selling the units. Reply
Sandra says December 5, 2017 at 1:01 am The Della Ionic Air Purifier Ozone Ionizer Cleaner is a great unit that I have had for years. I have a rare lung disease (i had the disease before I had the ozone cleaner) and have had no trouble. Amazon Prime lists it for $89.97 and it is good for up to 3500 sqft but Id have one on each level if the home is this large or multi level. My home is rather small and a single story since we downsized after the kids moved out. We’ve had absolutely no problems but we do not keep the ozone ionizer on all the time and when we do run it we use the lowest level. I hope this helps in your quest on finding an air purifier. Sandra from Evans, Georgia
CuriousCynic says October 8, 2016 at 3:42 pm Yeah, pretty much…. The lack of sources and references made me sad. Reply
Doc says January 6, 2017 at 12:30 am I have to agree. Very misleading and done so in an effort to sell something else. Really Sad. I am a retired HVAC company owner and 20 plus years back I was installing whole house ozone generators in the duct systems of homes, new and old. I have never gotten a complaint nor ever had a person claim harm or illness from them. It’s all how you use something that makes it safe or not. Even water is deadly. Too much and you can drown. So use some sense. They work. Why else would they be using them in every hospital system in the USA to kill Ebola and other infections like KPC? Reply
Darren Wight says August 29, 2017 at 3:00 pm Hi Doc, i too am in the Ventilation cleaning industry. looking into using Ozone technologies to assist with clients premises. Any chance you could send me some info on your systems. i find this a similar scenario to when Microwave ovens were first introduced and more recently mobile phones, what with electric cars etc some big players will not want some innovations to succeed. regards Darren Reply
Sharon says October 4, 2017 at 1:31 pm I have a commercial ozone unit that is used in smoke damaged homes. It is the most effective unit at neutralizing smells. The unit is retired for personal use. However it generates a great deal of ozone so I have to be very gentle with the setting. I think its name is Sunbelt. You can look it up as this unit is 20+ years old.
WonderN says October 6, 2017 at 11:04 pm I have a business…the adjoining tenant installed an ozone machine in the shared HVAC system. My staff and I were getting headaches not knowing they installed it. We came in one morning and all the grouted tiles had fallen down, the paint was bubbled (7 inch diameters) and all the elastics used for display looked like they had been burnt and they were all broken. What is your opinion on this? Reply
Dee H. says October 30, 2017 at 1:21 am Wow, what chemical reaction was the cause of all that damage? Almost sounds like someone sprayed Chlorine bleach instead of an O3 molecule into the air. Holy Cow.
Prabhakar says July 16, 2016 at 5:49 am Hello sir please use Dr. Aeroguard air purifiers with 9 stage purification without ozone.. Regards Prabhakar Eureka Forbes Ltd 8097000174 9594176879 Reply
max allen says June 18, 2017 at 10:55 pm I have lung damage, industrial and smoking [ex] Last winter I had a cough type cold so bought 2 Ionisers. For 3 months I coughed so much decided would be dead in a year. At the end of winter I turned them off and my coughing stopped, at the time I decided the better weather was the reason my cough stopped. Tried it again yesterday as winter is here and coughed for two hours, then the “penny dropped” as going outside the coughing stopped.No doubt the Ioniser is really bad for my health. I will have to destroy them as could not give away with a clear conscience. Reply
vicki says July 22, 2017 at 4:53 pm My daughter has been using one for 20 years and it has greatly helped her breathing, she has asthma. I have one and it helps me to breathe better, fresh air. I do not believe the fda facts are correct as I live in the south, its moldy and this machine takes it away…read more reviews Just type in good reviews on ozonators Reply
THOMAS says February 3, 2018 at 11:46 pm USED MINE FOR OVER 10 YRS. WHOLE ARTICLE IS B/S. SCIENCE IS WHY THEY WERE INVENTED. OZONE IS JUST LIKE NATURE GETTING RID OF SMELLS WHEN LIGHTNING STRIKES THE GROUND. IT PRODUCES OZONE- DARE YOU QUESTION GOD?! Reply
Grace Sanders says January 31, 2016 at 5:29 pm We are trying to remove severe smoke odors from a pot of chicken soup and bones burned to a blackened mess. The fire dept. said there was no smoke damage. But the smell has permeated everything. We have used vinegar and lemon in bowls, then charcoal, and now trying baking soda (and open windows, and fans, of course). .Nothing has had much effect. We’ve been told that an ozone generator will help. We would only use it when we were not occupying the premises. Is it still dangerous? Reply
Brenda says February 6, 2016 at 5:08 pm We had an attic fire. The smoke stayed in the attic, but the residue covered everything upstairs and on the main floor. We couldn’t see it, but a special “sponge” revealed the smoke residue. We have been living in a motel for six weeks. On the last day that the “professional” cleaning people were there, they were trying to clean the heating/cooling ductwork and instead blew the smoke residue/soot back into the house! This was the day after getting new carpet installed. They brought an ozone generator and said that the pets couldn’t be in the house while it was running. The next day (which is today) the smoke smell was gone, but I can’t stand to be in the house. The windows have been open for hours (in February in South Dakota), but my chest started hurting, and the top of my head was tingling. I had to get out of there and breathe normal air! Regarding your burned soup, I guess wash rugs and everything that you can and clean the walls. You may have to repaint. I do not recommend the ozone machine and hope that our house returns to normal very soon. Good luck! Reply
Ernie says April 16, 2017 at 6:45 pm Your cleaning company doesn’t have much experience with fire/smoke damage. I have been doing fire restoration for almost 40 years, leaning is a major part, using an commercial air scrubber is essential (you can rent them to) using odor neutralizers in cleaning is also essential. Most importantly is seal coating (paint) with Binn by Zinzeer Corp.will eliminate the odor, do not use Kilz for odor control use Kilz for stain blocking. Paint/Seal painted and unpainted surfaces like attic spaces or raw floor joists. Binn is also a vapor barrier it seals that well, although not a good stain blocker but it is the product for odor control along with intense leaning with the correct products look for Unsmoke products online. I am called upon by attorneys, engineers, insurance claims adjusters as a Fire/Smoke damage expert and I have trained all 103 of my employees. We have never had a home or business smell of smoke after we were done and we warrant our work for 5 years. Good Luck Ernie From Minneapolis, MN Reply
Luke says June 9, 2017 at 10:46 am Ernie, What is your company name and where is your reach. I’m around Waterloo, Iowa and would like to get an estimate for your services or a referral to someone in my area that you may know and trust to do the same. Thanks, Reply
Aline says July 7, 2017 at 1:02 am I have rat urine smell in my rent house how do you get rid of it Reply
Pete says November 16, 2017 at 10:06 am Hi Aline I use 1 5oomg and 10g machine specifically to get rid of rat urine and decomposed rat carcass smells. I make a living with this alone so I can assure you… Ozone works. Be mindful that the carcass of a decomposing rat must be removed prior to using ozone. A rat that continually urintaes due to nesting et al will unfortunately need to be moved on aswell as the ozone will only destroy what is there at the time. Hope this helps.
Fire Smoke Worked says August 4, 2017 at 9:57 am We also had an attic fire that came into the hall bath. Smoke covered everything including clothes in the closets. The professional company after doing the cleaning put a commercial ozone generator in the house for 2 days with the AC system running. They opened a few windows and told us to wait 2 days before returning. It worked. Also they took every piece of fabric (couches, clothes, linens, etc) to put in a special room at their location. They did an ozone treatment and it worked. Carpet was replaced. Reply
Dawg in the Couv says February 6, 2016 at 8:54 pm Would love to hear your thoughts on this question. I’m running an ozone generator in our camping trailer right now as the previous owner was a smoker. We will not be inside the trailer while it is running and will open windows and doors once finished to air out. Reply
Patrick Davies says June 27, 2016 at 8:07 am How did this work, I have the same problem and was going to use this as a solution. Reply
JD says March 28, 2016 at 6:03 pm I think those using it one time or here and there to remove odors such as smoke or skunk- which I just did…shouldn’t be worrying as long as you’re not around when the machine is on and let it air out good once done. Reply
James says November 4, 2016 at 12:09 am Grace ozone generators will do well in removing smoke smell. Close all windows and doors and set the generator. Make sure to vacate the premises during that time and let the house air well before re-entering. Reply
nikthebrick says December 10, 2016 at 9:14 am Use the ozone on a timer and leave the house for a few days. remove plants and pets and cover the TV. When you come back, air out house and have rugs and drapes cleaned. Wipe down surfaces with distilled water and a bit of pinesol. Yes, ozone does bind with organic matter in air and on surfaces including fungus, but you will have to wipe down. Then maintain your house air with this guys filters. Put a microbe killing light inside your blower by the often damp ac coils (condensation) to keep them from forming mold colonies. Reply
Richard Michael says January 20, 2017 at 5:07 pm Grace, the same thing happened to me with the the chicken soup. It was my fault, the whole house is terrible, had the windows open in this winter for hours and it is still horrible. I bought a generator but it won’t come for a few days. How did you finally get rid of the smell. I assume it dissipates with time but I can hardly breathe and it is worse upstairs. Thanks if you answer. Reply
TM says August 2, 2017 at 8:05 am Try Lampes Bergere with Lampes Bergere oil. It comes in many fragrances. It removes cooking and pet odors. You have to move it to each room but definitely works. Leave in each room for one hour. Reply
Brad says February 5, 2016 at 1:28 am I’m dying from an extremely rare disease, Chronic Fibrosing Mediastinitis. My doctors can’t understand why I’m still alive. The treatment that has saved my life was from Ozone Therapy. I see a certified specialist every week for ozone treatment. When I started treatment I could barely walk, months went by and they put me on a treadmill, I was walking a mile and I strived to improve my time each session after 4 months. Then I started to jog! I’m not sure why your downplaying the benefits of o3, it saved my life. My right lung doesn’t work and it’s hard to do simple tasks, but after a treatment I’m out walking my dog and enjoying life again. I’m sure some generators are not high quality and I hope people will look into the generators that actually work. Reply
Cam says March 11, 2016 at 2:27 pm Brad, What kind of ozone treatment did you follow? Was it breathing ozonated oil? Reply
MS says October 13, 2017 at 12:17 am Glad to c someone sticking up for ‘ozone’. Shhhhhh don’t let ‘Big Farm ” hear u! Reply
Dee H. says October 30, 2017 at 1:29 am See? Now this makes perfect sense to me. I used to take patients with pulmonary fibrosis, gangrenous lesions from Diabetes and of course, those who got the bends from diving, into an Hyperbaric chamber. While it’s not the process, it does sound like the Ozone device is making the broken-down O3 molecules from Ozone into a form of Oxygen that is either more readily metabolised in your lungs or advances it into the circulation much more forcefully. Makes perfect sense it would help…and God bless you for your positivity and hopefulness.Those can’t be measured but they ARE both effective in all type of diseases our medical geniuses call chronic and/or fatal. I don’t believe in those terms when the human body’s capable of healing in so many ways. KEEP GOING IN THAT POSITIVE DIRECTION…your immune system counts on you! :0 Reply
JOE SILVESTRI says March 31, 2016 at 5:01 am THIS ARTICLE IS UNTRUE.. OZONE 03 IS USED TO TREAT MOLD RESIDUE AND NICOTINE ODORS THAT GET TRAPPED IN FURNISHINGS . IT IS A SANITIZING GAS CREATED NATURALLY AND CAN BE DUPLICATED BY PROPERLY BUILT MACHINES.. CAUTION MUST BE OBSERVED WHEN USING OZONE TREATMENT FOR SANITIZING , JUST AS YOU WOULD WHEN USING CLEANING CHEMICALS.. OZONE MACHINES THAT GENERATE SHOCK LEVELS MONITORED BY A PRO DOES WORK WELL FOR MANY NASTY UNHEALTHY SITUATIONS. ,ITS OFTEN USED AS THE ONLY DEFENSE AGAINST A UNHEALTHY SETTING AND OR BREATHING AREAS WITH IMBEDDED ODORS.. UNDERSTANDING ITS HALF LIFE AND RESPECTING THE POST AIR OUT PROCEDURE WILL RESULT IN A GOOD SAFE OUTCOME. IF YOU HAVE NEVER USED IT FOR ODORS ? MAYBE YOU SHOULD . IT WORKS & IS SAFE WHEN USED PROPERLY …PERIOD Reply Reply
you says April 4, 2016 at 10:06 pm OK Joe, how bout you rewrite the article i bet you couldn’t do better. Reply
christina says September 17, 2016 at 7:58 pm I agree with this blogger on his health success, I understand ozone quite well and have an engineering degree as well as advanced physics and chemistry background. We are using the machine to kill bird mites infestation in our home and its marvelous! finally help thats easy after a year long battle! As this person indicated high densities of the ozone will irritate the lungs and you best operate the machine with no one present in the room at the time. Some exposure will not seriously hurt you. Of course its reactive nature means that if it is mixed with many chemicals like in new rugs (old rugs should be fine) there would be some interesting short term compounds made that would then be re broken down into safer stabler stuff, so caution should be used to not breath it in in the presence of chemical vapors. I know they ozone the water supply in Paris and hence do not have nasty chemicals like florine and chlorine in their water. I’d love to ozone the water in our swimming pool one day. So sure, a little care is needed but the advantages are amazing. It breaks down to oxygen and oxygen without polluting further our environment! The problem with smog and the bad rap with ozone is that Ozone is essential to our life on earth and created by the sun naturally in our air. We need to reduce the chemical pollutants creating smog and increase oxygen and ozone and we’d all be doing a lot better. Reply
Bev says December 18, 2016 at 5:54 pm Thank You for sharing your personal experience What was the size of the ozone generator that you used? Have you been successful in eradicating the bird mites? For how many hours at a time did you ozonate the rooms? How often did you have to repeat the procedure? Your answers and any other information would be greatly appreciated, because I am also fighting bird mites and was also thinking of getting an ozone generator. Reply
Jazz Mooney says December 19, 2016 at 10:23 am Hi, I have bird mites and Collembola in my home. Will the Ozone Generator kill these mites? If so, what mg did you buy to kiill them, what I mean is what is the strength of the ozone generator, may I please have the name of your generator? Many thanks, Reply
Elisheva says January 12, 2017 at 11:19 am Hi Christina I never heard of this machine i have many questions. You said you are using this machine for bird mites, when using how long is the treatment n how long do you stay out of home after treatment? Once in home , do you need to wipe everything n what brand is your machine? Can one rent this machine n please if anything else i should know?..dealing with immune system illness, health statues are not at best. Thank you! Elisheva Reply
Ron says March 28, 2017 at 1:13 pm I just bought a preowned car that had a terrible cigarette smell. I took it in to get detailed (shampooed) and “ozoned.” It seemed to work, at first but the smell returned after the first full day the car sat idle in the sun. However, the smell was not as intense as before. I did take it back and had the detail guy run the machine again for an hour. That was 3 days ago and so far so good. I just get the feeling the smell will never be 100% gone. Reply
stick to the facts and personal experience, says April 9, 2016 at 4:46 pm Post with conviction to your personal experience and documented facts, It is great that people want to help but if you are perpetuating theories based on a subject you have no personal experience with, by someone you don’t knows findings is inconsequential. There is some good information here by people with personal experience. I will take those over “scientific studies” any day. Reply
Charles Parker says April 11, 2016 at 4:55 pm We have experience with a MAC 500 from JIMCO in Denmark. This machine is designed to maintain a safe, low concentration of Ozone. The device will actually destroy Ozone when the level is higher than 0.04 PPM. If one has access to an Ozone meter and uses it on a normal summer day, you will discover a natural level of 0.08 and sometimes higher. There are thousands of people with lung and allergy problems benefiting from using the MAC 500. Anything in excess will harm us, but Ozone at safe levels is extremely beneficial. I would be glad to discuss this MAC 500 anytime with anyone. Reply
nikthebrick says December 10, 2016 at 9:23 am Sounds like a good machine to use after ozoning a home. Reply
Heather says April 15, 2016 at 1:23 am You are smart not to trust anything the government tells you. If its good for you they don’t want you to have it because they can’t make any money on healthy people. Open your eyes and look at whats really going on. This is a country full of medicated idiots. Get of the Rx drugs, thats whats killing you not Ozone! Reply
Carrie says April 16, 2016 at 1:16 pm I used an ozone machine to eliminate a mold problem. It killed the mold but not the particulates that still affect allergic response. The ozone machine created other problems. All listed above under “Health Effects of Ozone.” I’m a believer. We are getting a HEPPA air filtration system. Reply
nikthebrick says December 10, 2016 at 9:26 am After ozoning, you must clean up to finish the treatment. Reply
Eileen says October 27, 2017 at 7:38 pm What do you mean by cleaning up? I had an ozone treatment done by my apartment complex after I had moved in for possible smoke.Turns out that the maintenance guy put a deodorizer smelly thing into the ac intake vent. Since I discovered that and he took it out and I ran the AC and opened windows etc., I am sorry that I had the Ozone done because everything I wear when I leave the house smells like ozone. I am going crazy. I read on another sight that it is near impossible to remove that ozone smell. How do I clean this? Perhaps the apartment complex is responsible for not doing it correctly or overdoing it. Reply
The Home Health Wizard says April 19, 2016 at 10:50 am Ozone is amazing for air purification, though it does have some caveats and must be used carefully. To assert that HEPA filters are better is totally asinine, as these filters only remove dust from the air, while recycling microscopic mold, virus and other pollutants back into the air. Ozone and HEPA do different things and to compare them apples to apples is just plain STUPID. Reply
nikthebrick says December 10, 2016 at 9:34 am Ozone is generated from oxygen coming in contact with plasma. I was wondering about the pile of dust around TVs, electrostatic? Attracts dust and then kills microbes in the dust? There could be a level of ozone in the home with all those computers and TVs everywhere. Even air cleaners would generate some contributing to allergy and asthma reactions. Reply
joe says November 19, 2018 at 7:26 am Unless you have an antique TV that uses a cathode ray tube for the display, you won’t have an ozone problem with a television or monitor. Modern flat screen monitors and televisions use a low (20,000 volts) that accelerated an electron beam to strike the back side of the screen to generate the image. Those old sets even generated X-rays. children were warned not to sit too close to the TV or put their legs under the TV because of those X-rays. Reply
Carman Jennings says June 1, 2016 at 3:48 pm Ozone is one of the BEST substances known to mankind! It kills ALL forms of cancer, ALL forms of bad bacteria, ALL fungi, etc. while at the same time does absolutely NO harm to good cells, good bacteria, etc. The EPA wants you to think ozone and ozone generators are bad for you because they are being paid off by drug companies and medical supply companies. “T” is correct!!!!!!!!! Reply
Carman Jennings says June 3, 2016 at 8:44 am My ozone generator cost $3,500 from a company in Canada. If a company in the states were to try selling a unit like I have the federal government would shut them down! They would be shut down only because of being paid off by the medical industry. I use ozone on a consistent basis ever since I had discovered I had pretty bad case of candida in my upper G.I. tract caused from taking ANTIBIOTICS in my youth!!!!! The result was my being sick all of the time with head colds and sinus infections which caused me to take MORE antibiotics!!!! Since I am breathing small amounts of highly concentrated (medical levels) of ozone, I stay HEALTHY!!!!! No more head colds and no more sinus infections!!!! I haven’t even had any reason to be prescribed ANY antibiotics in YEARS!!!!!!!! Not only is “T” correct in what he said but so are the comments made by Brad, Joe and Heather above. Reply
Vic says June 26, 2017 at 5:57 am Carmen Jennings, what is the company and brand of your ozone machine? Reply
Ben says June 21, 2016 at 6:18 pm Is the Aprilaire 5000 a ozone generator? The company says ozone is generated at 2 ppb as an effect of the ionizing wires that are used. Reply
Ted r. says July 11, 2016 at 11:19 pm Proper ozone treatments (ozone tank therapy) can also treat other chronic conditions, including cancer, safely and effectively. Not widely talked about of course because chemo therapy is such a money maker for big pharma. Reply
John Wickersham says July 13, 2016 at 3:35 pm John, I have purchase a DELLA A SMALL UNIT. I am trying to keep the cigarette smoke out of my 1134 condo before company comes over. I only use the Ozonator on when I am not at home. When I am at home I use the Ionizer while I am at home according to the directions. My question is after I come home and shut the Ozonator off is it safe for me to be in the condo. Reply
Trina Plantz says July 15, 2016 at 9:30 am What information do you have on the Xenex Machine which uses Radiation C ultraviolent light to kill germs in a hospital and creates ozone Reply
Barry says July 23, 2016 at 7:58 am Its rubbish what people talk i work.in cleaning as both a supervisor and a health and safety representative for the last 23 years in my opnion ozone does what it says its reduced bacteria levels and was able to remove years of residue left by chemicals i could even spray it on to my skin where i was wearing gloves before i didnt suffer any breathing difficulties and i didnt have to wear any safety equipment i have cleaned by bathroom with an ozone generated solution and its marveous no wonder schools hospitals factorys etc use it to improve the environment and a big bonus u can poir down the drain and it will safely enter the ground water with out killing fish HO3 is a brilliant i shall carry on using it i dont care what people say Reply
Mike Alcantara says July 24, 2016 at 2:25 pm Ozone isn’t for breathing. This article is basically correct that ozone air purifiers are dangerous. Before starting Foreverozone I sold air purifiers via a website called air purifiers superstore for 8 years. I was a reseller of Airpura machines which I found to be the best air purifiers on the market. Air purifiers however didn’t purify the air and couldn’t remove dust quick enough in occupied rooms – people kicking up dust. I was an IAQ certified tech and had the tools to test for things like dust mite droppings. I found that ozone shock treatments in unoccupied rooms killed dust mites and neutralized their droppings so they didn’t cause allergic reactions. Later found out doing shock treatments in unoccupied rooms permanently removed the organic material that caused odors, things like chemicals, molds, and second hand smoke damage. Granted, ozone air purifiers are dangerous there is a place for ozone shock treatment machines. I now manufacture a made in the USA ozone machine that cost less than the Chinese made units and cost less. Only takes 15 minutes to remove odors and kill dust mites. Reply
Ashu says August 6, 2016 at 3:10 pm In india small ozone generator costs a miniscule Rs. 2200/- I.e. 33$. My chronic allergic rhinitis and cough has been controlled within a week of using it. Certainly ozone generator should not be used when u r in the room and moreover it automatically shuts down in 10 minutes Reply
Marita Soltis says August 9, 2016 at 5:58 pm I get chocked in my through and tightness in my chest Reply
Lance Demarcor says August 29, 2016 at 8:53 am I have used an ozone generator successfully without breathing the ozone…I had a small space with odor and left the generator in the room “full blast” for days. I was not in or around this room and after some time I shut the generator off and the odor was gone. Reply
Sder says September 1, 2016 at 1:51 pm It depends on how the ozone is created.. If from a blue ozone light then it is safe ozone.. If created by and electro statice plate then the ozone is unsafe Reply
Michael says September 3, 2016 at 11:55 am Absolutely true! It is created in thunderstorms as a biproduct of the electrical discharges between the storm and the ground (lightning). This is why it smells fresh after a thunderstorm. We also use it periodically in dry cleaning for smoke orders or fire orders ( person was a smoker or their house burned down but they want the smell removed from their clothes). It’s just another one of natures great creations. Reply
Mari says September 6, 2016 at 11:44 am I have an ozone generator, and purchased it only for killing smells and mildew. The idea is to always vacate the area, use the generator for a specific amount of time determined on the size of the area, shut it off and air the room out. Smells gone. I use an Ion generating air cleaner for my home air cleaning system with a HEPA filter. Reply
Anonymous says September 11, 2016 at 5:50 pm I’m not sure this article really touches base on what ozone generators are actually used for. Ozone is dangerous in high concentrations. No one can deny that. It also does very little in low concentrations. The idea behind ozone generators is that you vacate the room, and expose it to extremely high levels of ozone (way higher than would be safe to breathe) to shock it (hence the term ‘ozone shock’). Now, of course this site is trying to down-play the positives of ozone because they are trying to sell something. Reply
Sharon Drexler says September 27, 2016 at 5:07 am I not trying to sell anything and I say run far and fast from ozone machine. I ran one in my car for three hours then had the doors and windows open for four. Almost a week.later the smell is still.so strong it makes me sick. I have to drive with the windows down the whole way and still break out in a rash and feel bad. These things are not safe. Reply
Michael Murphy says September 27, 2016 at 1:15 pm You don’t know anything about ozone, and probably just as ignorant regarding hydrogen peroxide. O3 (ozone) and its twin sister Hydrogen Peroxide (H2O2) are not toxins. These items merely have an extra oxygen atom that is “unstable” in that it seeks an electron. It “steals” electrons from things it comes in contact with, but fortunately and almost miraculously, most detrimental things including microbes and toxins are electron starved and magnetically attracted to this unstable oxygen atom. The “extra” oxygen atom attracts electrons that are easily surrendered so ozone and peroxide are very efficient as disinfectants and are far more prone to “oxidize” detrimental microbes and chemicals than attract beneficial ones. You own body generated H2O2 as a part of its immune system. Ozone purifies the atmosphere by oxidizing “smog” rather than creating smog as you say. You are woefully ill informed on this subject. Plants need ozone in the earth for healthy roots. The ozone that falls to the earth with rain purifies the dirt. Get an ozone generator for your pool and never use chlorine again. You can purify city water with ozone and never need any other chemicals – just pure clean healthy water (but they don’t do this do they?) Peroxide makes an excellent mouth wash and will stop a toothache in minutes. The earth and plants would die without ozone. Please do some intelligent research on ozone and peroxided. You will find it is natures little miracle. Reply
Elliott says September 29, 2016 at 7:01 pm It is clear from this article, ( and others that I’ve read), that used properly, an ozone generator is effective in eliminating biological residue and decay odors, and that they are truly safe if the area is ventilated properly befooccupied.re-occupied. Reply
Felix Gonzalez says December 20, 2016 at 3:11 pm Correct, I have use it for many years. By the way I am an Environmental Scientist and an OSHA Authorized Instructor. I have to say that the Ozone Generator must be use in an unoccupied building, also the area must be ventilated well after the application has concluded. Plenty of fresh air is all you need. Reply
Jasper Bengal says October 3, 2016 at 7:04 am Thank you thank you thank you! Anyone who desires to THINK for themselves, can easily see that the “EPA” is, and has been usurped by industry for decades. Citing the EPA as a reference to bolster your case about Ozone (a naturally occurring substance, essential to life) is the same as blaming donuts for fat people. Get an Ozone generator. USE IT AS DIRECTED. Watch how fast your indoor air quality improves. Quit trying to peddle those maintenance thirsty hepa FILTHers. I have had many of those pieces of garbage over the years, and it’s always the same. Good for a month or two at the most. Then it’s right back to the store to get more. The benefits are very miniscule. Educate yourself. Don’t let this ill motivated person convince you. Reply
Absolute Zero says November 3, 2016 at 2:24 pm I love my ozone generator but I use it for water, not air. I was skeptical until i did this experiment. Reply
Tim Shannon says December 4, 2016 at 10:12 am I have been working with medical grade disinfectants that kill bacteria, viruses, mold and spores for 35 years for big companies. Many organisms and spores have become resistant to these chemicals, or do not get a complete kill, so the strongest survive, and begin to recolonize within 20 minutes of treatment, then your problems reoccur, and biofouling odors with them. Take a look at UltraPure Chlorine Dioxide. It’s a powerful selective or targeted oxidizer, and as a gas formed in aqueous Solution, it gets into the nooks, cracks, and crevices where the tough to kill spores which can survive for years on inanimate surfaces. All other oxidative bacteria/odor remediators use the “scorched earth” policy, damaging human tissue, corroding metals, and damaging any other surfaces including wood and fabrics. ClO2 has only been used when generated on site with raw materials by the ton in the paper pulp industry and to disinfect our potable drinking water systems. Why paper mills? It does not harm the paper fibers in the process of cleaning and whiting like bleach can. Only recently has it been available to the general public for small projects, as a small patented reaction chamber (sashe) tossed into a bottle of water allows only Pure ClO2 gas to emerge from the liquid, with dangerous byproducts trapped inside the reaction chamber. This can now be put into spray bottles for spot use, or a pan with ventilation fans to circulate the gas around a room, or inside a boat or marine vessel, to get rid of the malidour for good. Reply
RONALD DAVISON says January 20, 2017 at 12:06 pm I use twelve 7-foot 3-pronged Jacob’s Ladders running on 12,000-volts each and they produce a lot of Ozone as I enhance solar panels to make clean energy. I need to do an audit to compare ozone production to clean energy production. I also would like to know if it is a flame accelerator. Reply
K Michael says February 10, 2017 at 9:18 am Ozone is intended for unoccupied space, idiot. That’s why they tell you to set the timer and leave. Your incredibly ignorant. Your article is written with no boundaries on need, usage, testing, or how ozone is also used in conjunction with the many other types of air filtration, and has a specific target use for killing mold, viruses, bacteria, and is the only solution that will penetrate materials to do so. Yes Mr. Obvious, you need ionization and helps and activated charcoal filtration too, to complete the solution. Reply
Anne Nagle says February 12, 2017 at 6:31 pm I bought a Dyson Pure Heater/Cooling Fan about one month ago. I suffer from chemical sensitivies and thought this would give me clean air. I used it for three weeks before I realized it was that THING that was causing me to be short of breath and suffer nausea, metal taste, burning nose and eyes and severe depression. I returned that monstrous machine for a full refund. However the metallic taste and shortness of breath remain, no matter how much I clean and scrub. Would an ozone generator help me or make it worse? I am so angry about the mess this thing has made and frantic because I am having trouble breathing Reply
JK says February 16, 2017 at 9:51 pm Ozone generators are not meant to remove particulates. That why we have air filters such as hepa filters. What ozone does is kill micro organisms, viruses, mold and small parasites such as bed bugs, etc. Furthermore, the instructions on indoor ozone generators specifically warns to remove plants and small animals as it may be harmful to them. The instructions also state to air out the house before resuming any indoor activities. Also, you assertions that the EPA does not endorse or approve of ozone generators is flat false. Here is a link directly to the EPA’s website discussing indoor ozone generators https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/ozone-generators-are-sold-air-cleaners Reply
Samuel Mifsud says February 19, 2017 at 3:26 pm If you bought an even inexpensive Ozone generator it would have been much better then what you have returned your body starts from the point in which it began its symptoms and then it will begin to return to its normal balance from where we should all be. Do not be feared into the majority belief that Pure Ozone is bad they cannot make money off of you if you are fully aware and conscious of the truth. Stay strong and vigilant. Reply
Ethan James says December 1, 2018 at 9:06 pm Breathing pure ozone will cause you to die in a few minutes. It’s a 4 out of 4 in health on the NFPA safety diamond. 5ppm , or 0.0005% ozone is an immediate danger. 50ppm will kill a human in 30 minutes. Don’t mess around with this stuff. Reply
Alferes Costa says February 24, 2017 at 7:17 am Ozone is a very reactive gas and is toxic for the respiratory system but, under precise rules, it can be therapeutically useful for human disease with a chronic oxidative stress. An unfavorable combination of factors such as a wrong dogma, the fact that ozone is one of the worst troposphere pollutants and past misuse of ozone have led to a poor consideration of ozone therapy. However, basic and clinical work, developed during the last two decades, clarified both the biochemical and molecular mechanisms of action of ozone in biology and medicine. A judicious dose of ozone dissolved in blood immediately triggers a cascade of well defined chemical compounds acting on multiple cellular targets according to well-known biochemical and molecular pathways. Ozone therapy is proving to be very useful in the dry form of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), cardiovascular diseases, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cerebral diseases and healing disorders, where conventional medicine appears insufficient and too expensive. It is time that World Health Authorities abandon prejudice and skepticism and start to take advantage of an integrative medical application able to help the majority of world population Reply
lacreshia peterson says March 20, 2017 at 1:39 pm This happened to me and my family and pet we checked in the hotel we didn’t know wat it was so we left it running on high.we all started coughing, vomiting and have chest pains.we had to leave the room immediately. Reply
Dan says March 23, 2017 at 8:03 am I have used one and I found this. I love the smell and how clean it makes the house smell. If I use it and forget to turn it off it irritates my eyes to the point of feeling as though I have a severe infection and it also does give me a raspy voice. It took 2 times of this to occur to figure it out. I will say it is winter in Northern Michigan and the house gets so dry and I have a pellet stove. This gently blowes constant warm air on my left eye so naturally between the two it made it seem like an infection in my left eye. I wouldn’t have thought it would but it has. I thought the warnings of too much were bullshit but I think I get it now. I have no doubt in the right setting the benefits are numerous but I am merely saying what happened to myself. The ozone generator on constantly and dry air bothers my eyes and respiratory system. May or may not be beneficial to you. I am skeptical of many things and claims by many companies and people who know everything so I am merely relaying what has happened to me twice now at this time of year. Reply
Phillip McWhorter says March 26, 2017 at 9:27 am I am in the process of purchasing a home. The whole house has been painted, except the ceilings, and all carpet and padding replaced. But, there is still a terrible wet dog smell. The seller flips houses he buys from foreclosures. I doubt he sealed the cement slab thinking the odor would go with the new carpet, padding, and new paint. The kitchen, utility room and bathrooms are tile. Neighbors say the previous owner had multiple large dogs and let the house get to a state that he would not go in. Do I have a chance if I clean the tile and grout, then seal it… and shock treat the whole house with a commercial grade ozone generator for a few days while letting the ac fan run to circulate through the duct-work? I am an hvac contractor and if it causes the air-handler to corrode some it won’t be the end of the world for me as it is about ready to be replaced anyway. Or… is pulling up the brand new carpet in a 2400 square house and ceiling the slab inevitable? Also, what about the new carpet itself? Can I put it back down and at worst have it cleaned. This is a really good deal on this house and I am willing to spend some money if the seller won’t…but I’m not going to rip out sheet rock. I can still walk away. Reply
C. B. says March 30, 2017 at 12:30 pm I don’t know about ozone for daily use. I smell it at NYC subway stations when I lived there without noticeable effects. However, I would use it to rid areas of foul odors from mold and mildew, and perhaps even kill ants in crawlspaces and other spaces. I once had a car that got a musty odor from the air conditioner. I borrowed an ozone generator, started the car, turned on the air conditioner (heat on high) and set it to recirculate.the air. After an hour I turned it off, held my breath and opened the doors and waited for ten minutes. The odors were gone! Reply
CH says April 23, 2017 at 2:02 am We used to use an ozone machine to freshen rooms that had musty or foul smells, like from being closed up for a while. Yes you have to be careful, BUT that pertains to anytime you are using a chemical. Ozone machines do work to kill certain types of mold in the air…. You have to find the source, fix it & clean the surface & then run ozone. I would recommend airing out a bit before occupying the room. Ozone CURES cancer! You need to see an educated person to administer it. I had a respiratory virus, went see a friend who is studying ozone/natural treatments– this was the ONLY thing that helped me. Reply
Clayton says April 23, 2017 at 6:50 am Absolutely not if enough time elapses. It returns to normal oxygen. Filters help somewhat, but don’t clean the source. Your lungs supplement the filtering as the contaminants are constantly being released in the air Reply
Mark says May 1, 2017 at 8:38 pm How convenient that you badmouth Ozone generating machines, that actually work on odour because I’ve used them, and then try to sell HEPA filters which will do nothing to eliminate embedded odours. They would probably only get rid of the particles in the air that could possibly cause illness, but ozone generators are not intended for that. Basically comparing apples to oranges. I have been using ozone generators for years, they do a great job on eliminating most odours and are safe once the area is thoroughly aired out. If one insists on being in the same space as a running ozone generator and doesn’t realize that it’s not generally good for them ….Then that person should really not be using one. It boils down to a little bit of commonsense….. which I realized is not so common anymore. Good luck with your HEPA sales! Reply
Dr. Dan says May 7, 2017 at 8:41 am Ozone therapy and ozone air purifying unquestionably have value. Unfortunately, the government agencies that are suppose to help protect us do not offer a clear set of guidelines about the risk. We must take the time to do research for our own health benefit regarding ozone just as we should do when we decide what we should eat! Reply
Michael Leiter says May 9, 2017 at 2:58 pm No, the problem would not be solved if it is a pollen, dust ect. Any airborn particulates will still be there. I recommend that you clean sofas, chairs first. Then you could use your machine to kill the existing mold and mildew. I will not prevent the problem from reacurring. You should not breath the Ozone gas. Inhalation of the Ozone gas can very likely cause additional health problems. You should vacate the primeses while treatment it in operation. After treatment you should open windows ventelat the Ozone. I have worked with Ozone since 1992 on smoke odors and houses that have had interior odors from fires, floods ( mold and mildew. I hope this helps you. Remember treatment time depends on square footage. Michael leiter Reply
Ken says May 26, 2017 at 8:56 pm I have been using the Living Air aka as the Alpine units since the mid 90s with great results. I have run across negative reporting from time to time on the web. But most everyone I know that owns one, seems to like using them. I know their are some inferior units now being made in China. I have owned 4 different units due to failures which is annoying and expensive. I’m now 55 years of age and most people guess my age to be 10-15 years younger. I attribute it to the use of ozone and diet. I’m going to try another more expensive unit that works with oxygen in a lying down sauna type of system. I have read about amazing results. Anyway, regarding this blog post, I’m not going to agree or disagree with the author. The Hepa units are a great thing too. To each his own, just do plenty of research and decide for yourself what you think is best. Maybe check out Dr. Rowen and his ozone therapies on YouTube. There are some truly amazing stories out there. Dr. Mercola is another great reference. Just food for thought. Reply
Ken says May 26, 2017 at 9:05 pm I believe you are using commercial ozone generators. Those are definitely too strong as a daily household use item. I know this is why Alpine was sued and had to change their name while at the same time lowering the output of their machines. I like my older unit that bit the dust some time ago. California actually outlawed the use of personal ozone machines. I guess they feel people can’t monitor there usage safely on their own. I say whatever. My family never has allergies with proper use and care of one. JMHO Reply
Vic says June 26, 2017 at 6:32 am Ken, what is the company and brand name of your ozone machine? Reply
Jamie says June 10, 2017 at 7:54 am Please be careful with these. I did have one installed in our newly built home. To make a long story short, in 2004 my very healthy athletic husband started to have breathing issues, throat irritation, dry cough, etc right after we moved in. It was to the point that he could not go up and down stairs and missed 2 weeks of work which made it worse because he stayed home and had even more exposure to the ozone. I brought him to ER twice and the 2nd time he was admitted. Ended up with a heart catheter test to ensure it wasn’t his heart. After 3 days he was cleared and went home and of course the symptoms returned. My dad asked if we had an ozone machine hooked to our HVAC because he remembered reading about issues with them. We immediately unplugged it and the next day my husband started feeling much better. I hate to think about the permanent damage that may have been caused if we didn’t discover this. Please use them with caution!!!! Reply
Kenny says June 12, 2017 at 4:00 pm Ozone is always, always present when you walk outside anyplace on the planet ! It is ALSO a natural occurring force that has produced ozone since the dawn of time, it’s called lightening. Also produced in the lightening is positive and negative ions. We are positively charged, that is why after a thunderstorm we feel energized due to the high concentration of negativity charged particles in the air and the air smells great also due to the abundance of OZONE ! Now don’t get this confused with dirty ozone from smog. Either ozone in large quantities, is bad for anything that breaths and could actually kill you ! How ever, there are several reasons why when one is outside one dosen’t usually get sick, one reason is the sun’s rays, another reason is OZONE ! It kills viral and bacterial germs. The problem with putting an ozone/ion generator in one’s house is, most people are too ignorant to use it properly, so it is dangerous. I had one in my house for ten years and, during those ten years I never even caught so much as a cold, nor did my kids, and yes they went to school everyday ! So in a way, what the author says here is a half probably paid for by the people that sell HEPA filters ! Reply
Eric says June 29, 2017 at 4:11 pm ozone machines are bad, period! the latest and greatest Air Purification I found for home and auto is by a Company called Nu-Aria Air Detox, their machines dispense Concentrated Vapour Hydrogen Peroxide. my home took 4 hours, and an hour after completed I was back in my home with no ill effect. Reply
Ms. Carol Francia says July 27, 2017 at 10:20 am To the person suffering from mycotocins – zeolite is very effective at removing mycotoxins! I suffered for nearly a year and was relieved afyer 4 fays of taking one tablespoon a day. Reply
Chris Hurley says August 15, 2017 at 7:28 pm I recently purchased a home that the seller smoked constantly. Luckily, I negotiated a reduced price because of the odor. I had a company come in and treat the entire house with Clo2 gas. In less than 24 hours, the entire house was smoke free! Reply
Heidi Grignon says August 20, 2017 at 3:30 pm How did this work in your camper? We have a mildew, musty smell in our camper. Wondering if this would help. Reply
Lorre says September 7, 2017 at 6:17 pm It is used for cars so I think it would be great for campers. In fact you gave me the idea to use it in ours. Then open the windows for a short while when you are done. Reply
Rick says September 15, 2017 at 12:19 am It does suffocate mold. Using my small generator for 2 hours daily has turned dark toxic mold to a white powdery dust. Reply
Clara Ann says September 24, 2017 at 11:20 pm I would luv to have an ozone rug cleaning to my home but now I’ve heard so many pros and cons I don’t know what to do! Where can I really get the truth about having my carpet and house O-Zone Reply
SS Mishra says September 26, 2017 at 6:22 am i m going to purchase a vegetable cleaner which has a capacity of generating ozone <400mg/h and two timing setting of 15 minutes and 30 minutes. The vegetables are put in a bowl filled with water, then nozzle of cleaner is put in the water and the machine is started and it automatically stop after selected time range. The the vegetable are taken out of the water and are properly rinsed with water, which are now ready for use. Is it safe to use such ozone generators in the kitchen while working in the kitchen? or what precautions shall be taken? Are these ozone generators safe? Please share your comments – SSMISHRA , India Reply
Kevin says October 21, 2017 at 2:18 pm That’s why you only use ozone generators when the home is empty of ppl and pets. They can safely be used to eliminate many smells from flooding and smoking for example , even bugs such as bed bugs and spiders. Never run them more than 2 hours. And NEVER with any living creature inside. Then they are safe to use. I own one. I only use it when I move into a new house or if I have bad mildew smells from when a sump failed. But it’s only used in an empty house for at least 48 hours. Prob not necessary to keep ppl away that long but better safe than sorry. Reply
Kris Lucas says October 22, 2017 at 12:34 pm Completely bullshit! Ozone generators are very useful and they work well! I know something about it and I just can’t stand when I read such bullshit like this article trying to sell other product in this way. Reply
o2ok says November 5, 2017 at 7:32 pm I have had a ozone generator going almost 24/7 for more than 30 years and have never had a problem and on contrary notice a distinct difference in the air quality without one. OCCASIONALLY the concentration is too strong if there is ZERO air exchange and i turn it off. Anyone that understands oxygen t therapy knows there is a limit that kicks in of max benefit and then thats the time to stop. Don’t listen to fear..be your own doctor. Reply
Sheilah Long says November 18, 2017 at 8:59 pm Is it safe to use these if u have a floor gas furnace Reply
Herbert Hoover says December 7, 2017 at 4:11 am If I understand the gist of this article it seems quite clear to me that I should avoid HEPA filters at all cost and that the use of ozone in a cautious manner can be quite effect at getting rid of odors. Thank you for taking the time to write this article and selflessly share this valuable information with the public. Reply
Mary Garland says December 21, 2017 at 8:32 am I used a ozone air purifier for years thinking I was doing a good thing for myself. As a result of using it I developed asthma, the COPD and emphysema. I never smoked or did anything else to cause harm to my lungs. This is not a genetic issue either. My life has been cut short because of this. Beware don’t believe the ignorant sales people that believe whatever the corporation tells them. Reply
Greg A says December 30, 2017 at 8:46 pm Ok so I bought and used an Ozone generator in an SUV that I bought. I’m sensitive to fragrances and it had a bad perfume smell. I got the Ozone generator on Amazon and it did’nt come with instructions. I ran it for 2 full cycles and now I cant get the Ozone smell out. Tried leaving the doors and windows open.Ran a big box fan for days.Ran the heat on high for hours and the smell is still there. If I get in and drive it my throat starts getting irritated . Anybody got any suggestions??? Reply
Wayne Byrd says January 11, 2018 at 2:21 pm The reason you can’t get rid of this now is because the ozone has gotten inside of all of your upholstery. It may take a few days with the windows down but it will go away. The main thing to know is this, when you smell the ozone and you do not have to machines running is because the ozone has done its job and permeated every surface. It is inside of everything, killing mold, germs, bacteria, viruses and more. It is true that you should not breathe high quantities of ozone. But then again, when our machines are running, you can smell it, you know it’s there, so stay away from it. Just know this, it works 100% of the time I’m like some cheap fan in front of a pile of charcoal Reply
T Scott says January 12, 2018 at 9:43 am Control your ego. Second, stop telling the truth but not the whole truth. I am not going to waste any more time on someone so ill informed. Reply
Boni says January 12, 2018 at 12:30 pm Dude really? -.- you’re just advertising. Show me a journal entry and I’ll believe you Reply
Paul E. Morfik says February 26, 2018 at 8:35 am Sorry I am not able to answer your questions about mold and mycos. However, I will tell you this. Ozone will break down neoprene and other rubber. I left my ozone machine on for 2 weeks with all apartment windows closed, once while on a road trip to clean out my apartment from staleness, mites, mold spores etc. When I returned I held my breath and turned the machine off, opened all the windows and left for several hours. Upon returning I vacuumed thoroughly. Everything was cool until I decided one day to wear a brand new pair of sneakers form the closet. By the time I got to the elevator, and from just walking down the hall, large chunks of white rubber sole were falling off of my previously unworn sneakers. Sad because I had just bought 4 pairs of them. I also noticed that the rubber backing on my carpet mats and runners had deteriorated and turned to powder. I would think a boat would have a significant amount of rubber aboard. Reply
JOSHUA MARKS says April 1, 2018 at 9:48 am In the past I had 2 of the ionic breeze In my house and I can say that I get colds very easily because of the ozone effect. Not sure if I can reverse the effect. I have moved since then and I now use the Honeywell air Purifier which gives off no ozone. But sad to say during that time we have had 2 kids when we had the ionic breeze and since then they both have bronchitis and have been in the hospital many times with breathing problems. Now they are 3 and 6 years old they get allergies really bad and they get colds all year around and last year they had the cold over 34 times and each time I got it to. But they got over it fast. Probably because they are young. Took them to the doctor many times and he said that it’s from the kids at school and from being in pre-school. It just sounds like a lot to me. This year 2018 hasn’t been to bad but I still have allergies all year around and it wasn’t like that before. Just in the May and June. Waiting to get my new purifier in the mail soon. Reply
jim simmons says April 20, 2018 at 12:08 pm this is crap, pure and simple. You have no idea what ozone might or might not do to a person if they inhale it. THis is a bunch of fear mongering and arm waving. Nothing more. Reply
Jake says April 30, 2018 at 4:38 pm I had an Aranzer in my bedroom, next to my bed, “on” for about 10 years. It stopped working. It was great for removing odors. I wanted to replace, but the company ent out of business. Reply
Angie says May 6, 2018 at 3:37 pm We just purchased a home in which the previous owner was obviously a heavy smoker. There is no carpet, furniture, drapery, etc. but the house reeks of stale cigarette smoke. We’ve repainted already and scrubbed the tile and wood floors. I’m not sure that a hepa filter will do the trick and it still smells. Any suggestions? Reply
Paul Essenfeld says May 8, 2018 at 9:12 am We’ve been running two XT800 ozone generators for at least 15 years in what was our moldy smelly basement. First we shocked the basement and now we run the generators continuously. My home office and gym and laundry are in the basement and we spend at least 3 hours a day there with no ill effects. There is no more mold and visitors comment on the fresh atmosphere of our basement. Reply
Bob Thompson says July 17, 2018 at 12:21 pm Your comments and examples are misleading and not correct. O3 generators are the same as nature with lightning storms. Ever smell the clean crisp ait after a lightning storm? This is natures way of cleansing the air. The NHL uses O3 generators to remove mold and bacteria causing MRSA and staff infections. Look up the Mighty Ducks player who almost lost his arm and started the use of O3 generators on hockey equipment. Look at water purification systems that use O3 generators and UV to kill bacteria in water supplies. Yes O3 can damage and reduce fiber and materials, why the NHL and High School Football teams treat the equipment with tea oil or something to prevent it from drying out and being brittle. Hotels use them to clean and disinfect rooms as well as used cars for eliminating odor. I’ve used them for years, starting when I had to move from our house do to mold issues. They are effective at removing odor and killing MRSA, staff, mold, etc. You just need to air out the room as O3 oxidizing back to pure O2 when exposed to fresh air. HEPA’s are good for removing particulate, dust, etc, but do nothing for bacteria, mold, etc even with a carbon filter. 30+ years in engineering I have used them both industrially and for home. You sound more like your being paid by HEPA air cleaning companies than telling the true engineering facts. Reply
Graeme says July 23, 2018 at 1:52 pm The EPA also allows the neuro-toxin Fluoride in the water supply. I wouldn’t blindly accept their findings without doing your own research. Reply
Keith N Gillis says August 4, 2018 at 2:13 pm Ozone is created with an electrical storm, hence the “freshness” of the air after. Niagara Falls is said to create an ozone effect also. Negative ions and such. I think someone does not like competition… Reply
Mike Alcantara says October 8, 2018 at 12:11 am While it’s true that most ozone generators are a waste of money for various reasons, the fact remains that ozone shock treatments are the only way to remove the stench of death in crime scene clean-ups, remove skunk odor, and kill mites without pesticides, just to name a few applications. Nobody I know suggests you breath ozone. To do it right, you need high ozone concentrations for a short period of time. That improves indoor air quality in a way air purifiers simply can’t. Reply
Melissa Morton says October 14, 2018 at 12:29 pm I just got a green air pro that does everything including hepa and ozone. I am very impressed this thing has abliviated our indoor mold problem in hours which years of chemical scrubs could not do. I’m sold! in fact buying a second one for our other residence. Reply
TrickedoutTech says October 16, 2018 at 10:52 pm Ozone does work; It will not remove particulate matter. However, it will kill all mold, germs, smells and allergy spores. However, It is not safe to use in a home while animals, plant, and humans are in the home. All you have to do is run the machine while your not home. When you come home open couple windows vacuum dust. Make sure while Ozone is runner you move plants and animal to a safe area. Outside in garage friends house. This guy works for a HEPA company for sure. HEPA Is also great at removing Particulate matter if it happens to be floating in the air. Using Ozone when your not home and HEPA, when you’re at home. Will give you a cleaner environment than a hospital. Never use Ozone around Plants, animals or people. Reply
John says November 29, 2018 at 2:52 pm When used for an extended amount of time, was anyone able to safely remove the smell of ozone from the room? It has been months and it is still there! We are having a baby in a couple months and need to get this resolved asap! I’ve tried cleaning all the surfaces, airing out the room with open windows for months, nothing worked. Thank you to all for your comments and warnings of extended use and right now I need solutions to remove the smell / oxidized surfaces… maybe a cleaner/ chemical that can break down ozone? Reply
John says November 30, 2018 at 4:55 pm I have several commercial Ozone generators one 5000 mg/hr and 12500 mg/hr are the two biggest ones and I have to say It killed mold behind the caulking in my shower and totally eliminated all cigarette smell in my car and my 2 year old walked all over inside his mothers car with cat doo on his boots and after scrubbing removed all that smell as well. Im SOLD Reply
hf says December 13, 2018 at 8:07 pm i had a smokers car and hit it 3 x for 12 hrs each time. i then let the car air out and smoke smell was gone . worked for me . no side affects since i only used 3x, not repeatedly. Reply
Don Fowler says December 15, 2018 at 6:06 pm My wife and I have used ozone generators for 30 years. They work great. Just run them for limited amount of time when you are not present. They neutralize tobacco odors, kennel odors (we have a veterinary facility), and they refresh bad air. Reply
Robert Moore says January 5, 2019 at 1:13 pm I have used one in cars for years, when a vehicle has been subjected to high levels of moisture or water leaks and starts getting a musty odor I place the generator in the closed up vehicle for 30 minutes and then leave the car closed up for another hour with out the generator running. After opening the car and letting it air out all musty smells are gone and do not seem to come back. I have also used the same generator in basement rooms suffering from the same musty odors. Using the machine for limited time and allowing the room to sit closed up for a time period seems to give the same result. The real secert is to use the generator for a limited time, using the automatic timer to fill the space with ozone and then allowing the ozone to dissipate naturally. Do not enter the room and then allow the room to air out. I firmly believe that used properly ozone is effective to remove odors that do not respond to other methods of clearing the air. I also believe that it is unhealthy and dangerous to be in the area during use. I have also experienced having an entire house filled with ozone after a fire and overnight all smoke odor was gone and no return of any scent. The secret is us it to instructions from the manufacture, allow it to dissipate and then air out. There is no way that it is as dangerous as this article seems to say. Reply
