Ozone Questions and Answers

Ozone Questions and Answers


What is ozone?

Ozone (O3) is an enriched pure oxygen containing three oxygen atoms instead of two. It is a strong cleaning, purification, and oxidizing agent that reacts with organics to oxidize unpleasant odors and kill germs.

Just what do you mean by oxidation?

Oxidation means a substance undergoes a chemical change resulting in a different substance. Odors and pollutants are oxidized to harmless, odorless carbon dioxide, and the ozone reverts back to pure oxygen. Fire and chlorine are examples of oxidants.

Why does ozone kill odors, germs, and pollutants?

The third atom is loosely attached and easily separates from the ozone molecule to combine with other substances. Thereby oxidizing the air polluting substances.

Is ozone dangerous?

Ozone in heavy dosages are not recommended but low levels of ozone are safe. Our natural air purification systems are designed to be below U.S. regulatory limits for ozone. There is no danger associated with ions. The air purification systems are designed to bring ozone levels of a room to that of a forest.

What about maintenance cost?

The only maintenance cost associated with the air purifications systems is to replace the UV/ozone chamber in 1-1/2 to 3 years.

What does ozone smell like?

Ozone's characteristic odor can be smelled immediately after a lightening storm or near photocopiers and electric motors, all which generate ozone. Its odor has also been described as the smell of clean bed sheets or forest air.

How is ozone formed by nature?

Trees emit hydrocarbons, by-products of photosynthesis; together with sunlight, they produce ozone. The electrical discharge of lightning can also produce ozone. That is why the air always smells so fresh after a thunderstorm and in a forest.

Can ozone and ions reduce the effects of sick building syndrome?

Yes, the sick building syndrome occurs in tightly sealed buildings with too little ventilation. Odors, bacteria, molds, mildew, chemicals, smoke, carbon monoxide, and dust build up can create a health hazard. Ozone and ions cannot cure the cause, but can destroy the airborne pollutants that create the health hazard and odors.

Is this like a HEPA air filter?

These natural air purification systems are far superior to air filters for odor and gases. Air filters can only filter solid particulates and have little or no effect on gases and vapors. Filters can actually act as a breeding ground for mold, bacteria, and fungus.