When it hits molecules like mold or smoke, the third oxygen molecule attaches itself to molecules of the pollutant and basically eliminates it. Now, the ozone is released from the machine into the air. (Did you know that because of electrical charges, ground-level ozone is often present in higher levels after a lighting storm?) This electrical charge allows the oxygen molecules to rearrange themselves and form O3, our famous ozone. Ozone air purifiers, essentially take in oxygen from the air (O2) and give it a strong electrical charge. Therefore, it needs to be generated onsite through the use of high-tech machines. However, like many things, just because it’s “natural,” doesn’t mean it’s healthy.īecause ozone is highly reactive, it is nearly impossible, at least with today’s technology and knowledge, to store it for any prolonged time. These machines are designed to create ozone through a simple process that occurs naturally in the atmosphere. One of the most common ways to “clean” air and remove strong odors is through the use of an ozone air generator, also known as ozone machines or ozone air purifiers. The ability to attach to other molecules, such as smoke and odor, gives ozone it’s ability to clean and deodorize indoor areas quickly. After it attaches to pollutants, the substance is destroyed. It can also attach itself to viruses, bacteria, mold spores, and organic matter. Therefore, it will easily attach itself to pollution, especially high-odor pollutants like smoke. This third oxygen molecule is unstable and only shares a loose connection with the other two molecules.
Ozone is simply three oxygen molecules, or “O3.” In the science world, ozone is referred to as “trioxygen”. (Technically speaking, we don’t actually breathe individual oxygen molecules, we breathe dioxygen.) The type of oxygen we are most familiar with, the kind we breathe every day, is actually dioxygen, or “02,” which is made of two oxygen molecules. Don’t worry, it’s really not that complicated, and there’s no test afterwards! What is ozone? We know you didn’t come here for a chemistry lecture, but if you want to understand ozone, you’re going to have to bear with us while we get into the details a little. If you are considering the use of an ozone air purification to remove a strong odor or eliminate mold, you need to be fully informed on their history and proper use, as well as the alternatives to ozone generators.īut first, you need to understand what ozone is and why it’s so effective yet so harmful. The same molecular process that makes ozone generators so effective is also what makes them dangerous. While these machines can “shock” the air and deliver fast results, they can also be dangerous to our health, especially our lungs. Ozone generators are one of the most common ways to quickly remove airborne contaminants and odors from homes, offices, and even cars. Air Purifiers and Ozone Generators: What You Need to Know