Hydroxyl versus Ozone: Which Tool is Better?

Hydroxyl versus Ozone: Which Tool is Better?

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. What is an Ozone Hydroxyl Generation?
3. How does a Hydroxyl Generator Work?
4. Hazards and Exposures of a Hydroxyl Generator
5. How to Use a Hydroxyl Generator Effectively
6. How does an Ozone Generator Work?
7. Hazards and Exposures of an Ozone Generator
8. How to Use an Ozone Generator Effectively
9. Differences Between Hydroxyl and Ozone Generators
10. Choosing the Right Generator for Odor Removal
11. Cleaning and Maintenance of Hydroxyl and Ozone Generators
12. Conclusion

The Power of Ozone and Hydroxyl Generators in Odor Removal

Introduction

Ozone and hydroxyl generators are innovative machines that are highly effective at removing undesirable odors from enclosed environments. They both create and emit compounds that can eliminate odors caused by mold, mildew, pet odors, skunk smell, smoke, high VOC fumes, and rotten organic matters. However, despite their similar effects, these two machines accomplish odor removal in very different ways. Understanding these differences is vital for using both machines safely and effectively.

What is an Ozone Hydroxyl Generation?

An ozone hydroxyl generation is a process that utilizes hydroxyl and ozone generators to eliminate odors. Hydroxyl generators work by breaking down odor-causing molecules within an enclosed space, while ozone generators not only break down molecules but also kill odor-causing organisms. Hydroxyl is known as nature's broom or detergent, as it naturally breaks down odors by extracting hydrogen atoms and weakening odor bonds. On the other hand, ozone is a highly reactive gas that attacks odor-causing molecules and organisms by casting off its third oxygen atom.

How does a Hydroxyl Generator Work?

Hydroxyl generators, such as the Otorox Plus, use ultraviolet light-emitting tubes and a 690 max CFM fan to pull air through a chamber. When the UV light reacts with water vapor and oxygen, hydroxyl molecules are created. These hydroxyls naturally break down odor-causing molecules by extracting hydrogen atoms and weakening the odor bonds. The process is safe and can run constantly in public areas without causing harm to humans or animals. However, handling the machine properly and following maintenance procedures is crucial to avoid potential dangers from the machine's weight, UV light, and surrounding electronics.

Hazards and Exposures of a Hydroxyl Generator

While hydroxyl generators do not emit harmful gases, there are several potential hazards and exposures to consider. The machine's weight, approximately 40 pounds, can cause overexertion and soft tissue injury if not handled properly. The UV light emitted from the tubes can damage the eyes, necessitating the use of dark UV-blocking goggles when working with the machine. Additionally, the internal fan and surrounding electronics should be handled with caution, and the power source should be removed before maintenance. It is important to inform customers about these potential dangers and ensure their safety during the familiarization process.

How to Use a Hydroxyl Generator Effectively

To achieve the desired results with a hydroxyl generator, it is essential to understand the customer's desired value. Hydroxyl generators break down odor-causing molecules, causing the odors to dissipate. However, they may be less effective than ozone generators, particularly for large mold remediation jobs where mold has formed inside drywall, subflooring, or insulation. Determining the size of the treatment area is crucial for selecting the appropriate equipment package. The treatment area should be closed off to ensure the hydroxyl remains contained, and proper airflow and humidity levels should be maintained for the machine's effectiveness.

How does an Ozone Generator Work?

Ozone generators, like the Ship TZ2, operate by forcing air through a discharge gap between two electrodes and a dielectric, typically made of ceramics or glass. The electrical current causes oxygen atoms to split and create ozone, which is emitted into the air. Ozone attacks odor-causing molecules and organisms by casting off its third oxygen atom, breaking down the molecules and destroying the odors. However, it is vital to note that unlike hydroxyl, ozone is harmful and dangerous to living organisms, causing a burning sensation in the eyes and lungs upon exposure.

Hazards and Exposures of an Ozone Generator

Exposure to ozone can have severe consequences for living organisms. Ozone reacts with surrounding organic material, oxidizing and burning them, which can cause significant damage and even death. It can be harmful to people, plants, cats, dogs, as well as leather and rubber items. Excessive moisture in the air can lead to the creation of hydrogen peroxide, which is also dangerous. Hence, it is crucial never to expose oneself, pets, or others to ozone. Customers should be educated on these dangers during the familiarization process to ensure their safety.

How to Use an Ozone Generator Effectively

When using an ozone generator, it is important to determine the size of the treatment area and choose the appropriate size and quantity of generators. The Ship TZ2 ozone generator can handle a much larger area, up to 10,000 square feet, compared to the Hydroxyl Boss's recommended treatment area of approximately 1,000 square feet. Proper containment of the treatment area is essential to prevent ozone from dispersing to undesired areas. The ozone generator should be operated with caution due to its harmful properties, and airflow and humidity levels should be checked to maximize effectiveness.

Differences Between Hydroxyl and Ozone Generators

Hydroxyl and ozone generators differ in how they eliminate odors. While hydroxyl breaks down the bonds of odor-causing molecules, ozone goes further by killing the organisms that cause the odors. As a result, ozone is generally considered more effective than hydroxyl. Ozone is recommended for large mold remediation jobs where mold has formed inside drywall, subflooring, or insulation. Hydroxyl is commonly used for general odor removal but may not be as powerful as ozone. Each type of generator has its own advantages and considerations, and the right choice depends on the specific odor removal requirements.

Choosing the Right Generator for Odor Removal

When selecting a generator for odor removal, factors such as the size of the treatment area and the type of odors to be eliminated must be considered. For smaller areas and general odor removal, a hydroxyl generator may be sufficient. However, for larger areas or specific odor issues like mold, an ozone generator is often recommended. The half-life of hydroxyl is approximately two seconds, while ozone can last over 20 seconds, giving ozone a longer lifespan and potentially greater effectiveness. Choosing the right generator ensures optimal results and customer satisfaction.

Cleaning and Maintenance of Hydroxyl and Ozone Generators

Both hydroxyl and ozone generators require minimal maintenance. The machines should be wiped down with disinfectant wipes after use to remove any mold or pathogens they may have been exposed to. Physical damage, such as dents or scratches, should be inspected, and the power cord should be checked for nicks or cuts. The hydroxyl filter should be evaluated to determine if cleaning or replacement is necessary. Additionally, the UV lights and the fan should be checked while wearing eye protection. Proper cleaning and maintenance ensure that the generators are in good working condition for the next use.

Conclusion

Ozone and hydroxyl generators are powerful tools in the removal of unwanted odors from enclosed environments. While hydroxyl generators effectively break down odor-causing molecules, ozone generators go a step further by also eliminating odor-causing organisms. Understanding the hazards, proper usage, and differences between these two machines is key to using them safely and effectively. By choosing the right generator, following recommended guidelines for containment and maintenance, and considering specific odor removal requirements, customers can achieve optimal results in odor elimination.