Ozone generators

Ozone generators are being promoted as an effective method to clean indoor air pollution and odours. However ozone is associated with adverse health effects.

Available scientific evidence shows that ozone concentrations that are safe to breathe are unlikely to be effective in controlling indoor air pollution.

Manufacturers and vendors of ozone devices use a variety terms to describe ozone. Terms such as “energized oxygen” or “pure air” suggest that ozone is a “healthy” kind of oxygen. However, ozone is a toxic gas with very different properties to oxygen. Whether it is a pure form or mixed with other chemicals, ozone can be harmful to health.

An ozone generator is a device designed to produce the gas ozone. Ozone is used effectively in water purification, but ozone in air must reach high levels to remove air pollutants.

Health experts warn that it is important to control conditions to ensure that no person or pet becomes exposed to high levels of ozone. Ozone also masks the odour of some pollutants by impairing a person’s sense of smell.

Further, ozone is not effective for killing bacteria or mould in materials such as air conditioning duct lining and ceiling tiles.