Want to know how long an ozone generator should be left running in a bedroom? Don't worry! We’re here to help you as we share what we have researched from the experts.
Typically it will take 3 to 6 hours to run an ozone generator in a small-sized area such as your bedroom. But this doesn't mean that using an ozone generator is recommended, as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has warned of the danger it may produce.
In this post, we will share with you all the information you need in regards to ozone generators. We will also give you a rough idea of how to use it at home without causing too much harm. This information is important, so continue reading.
What Is An Ozone Generator?
An ozone generator is a type of air purification system that creates ozone (O3) to help lessen the presence of airborne contaminants. Because it is made up of three highly reactive oxygen atoms, ozone can bind to airborne organic pollutants and oxidize and remove them. Ozone comes in both beneficial and harmful forms.
Between 6 and 30 miles above the Earth's surface, the atmosphere contains stratospheric ozone, also known as "good ozone." This ozone layer blocks the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. However, "bad ozone," or ground-level ozone, negatively impacts our health. Bad ozone is usually produced by ozone generators.
Is Ozone Generator Safe?
Unfortunately, no. The EPA has condemned these devices and provided numerous academic studies demonstrating their potential for health risks and inefficiency in removing airborne contaminants. For this reason, no federal agencies have authorized the use of ozone generators in occupied spaces.
In the same way that ozone reacts with organic matter in the air, it can also do so with organic matter in our bodies, which can have negative health effects. Ozone directly affects our lungs and respiratory system when it is inhaled. Exposure to it may result in the following health risks:
- Reduced lung function
- Exacerbated asthma
- Coughing and throat irritation.
- Inflammation of the lung tissue.
- Greater propensity for respiratory infections.
- Breathlessness and chest pain.
When you breathe in ozone for longer than eight hours a day for several weeks or months, you have experienced long-term ozone exposure. Exposure of this kind has been connected to an increased risk of asthma hospitalization and other respiratory-related conditions.
How Do Ozone Generators Work?
O3 refers to the fact that ozone is made up of three oxygen atoms. Two of the atoms come from the oxygen we breathe; the third can separate from the ozone molecule, reattach to other substances' molecules, and alter those molecules' chemical composition.
Ozone generators take advantage of this chemical process by first filtering oxygen, then using an electrical charge to break up oxygen molecules and encourage their reformation as oxygen and ozone.
Ozone can be generated in two different ways:
UV Radiation
This process is comparable to the production of stratospheric ozone. These ozone producers separate oxygen molecules using UV light. However, compared to silent corona discharge, this technique is less efficient.
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Silent Corona Discharge
An electric discharge used in this process encourages the molecules to split (as mentioned above). Ozone or oxygen is created when the molecules are reassociated. Compared to UV generation, this process generates more ozone and is more effective.
Click here to see this silent corona discharge ozone generator on Amazon.
How Long Should An Ozone Generator Run?
You must be sure to abide by the specific instructions for your ozone generator to keep yourself, your loved ones, and your home safe.
In general, 3 to 6 hours should be given for these machines to run in an average room of the house such as a bedroom, living room, etc. This is because this time frame allows the ozone to properly affect the surroundings without impeding the molecules' ability to disappear.
On the other hand, if you want to go through your entire house, this could easily take a day or longer (25-30 hours). You must keep in mind that the duration has more to do with your home's air quality and safety than it does with the machine itself.
As long as you follow the safety instructions outlined in the manual, you are more than welcome to take on a large home all at once.
How Long Does Ozone Dissipate?
You still need to wait for a long enough time after these generators have finished their work before entering the area they were used. Ozone typically disintegrates into oxygen again after 2 to 4 hours, at which point it is safe to enter the room and breathe the air.
It's crucial to keep in mind that you shouldn't breathe the air at all if your generator is still running when you enter a space for any reason. It may result in severe problems with your throat, and lungs, or even give you a headache.
At that point, covering your mouth and nose and rushing into the room to manually turn off the machine are your best options. After that, you should wait for another 2 to 4 hours before going back in. Fortunately, most modern ozone generators have a built-in timer, which will turn out to be your new best friend.
When you program your generator to run for exactly 3 hours, for example. You can relax knowing that it will turn off when the allotted time has passed. This allows you to avoid going into the area to prevent the machine from overworking itself.
These tiny timers are a great way to make sure you're operating the generator safely and following the instructions from the manufacturer.
How To Use An Ozone Generator?
Ozone poses a threat to the health of all living things, including people, animals, and plants. It does help to kill germs, mold, odor, and even insects that might be crawling underneath the bed.
Therefore, before using an ozone generator if you have tried everything else and are at a loss, please read the user manual. Each ozone generator is uniquely configured with its capabilities and features. If you've never used an ozone generator before, please follow the safety instructions listed below.
1. Clean Up The Treatment Area
Please do some cleaning to get rid of the odor's source before applying ozone treatments.
2. Cover Valuable Items
When an ozone generator is running, keep valuables covered or out of the way because metals and paper react poorly with ozone atoms. If at all possible, wrap a blanket around larger items.
3. Set The Timer
The best ozone generators have a timer that enables the ozone unit to run for anywhere between a few minutes and several hours. The gadget turns itself off automatically after that period. By doing this, you won't need to manually turn the device off.
However, if it doesn't have a timer installed or if the timer is no longer functional, take a deep breath, and cover your nose and mouth with a towel. Enter the room quickly, turn off the ozone generator, and then leave the area right away.
4. Leave The Room
Never occupy the same space in a room with an ozone generator running. If you want the device to cover the entire house, find a place to stay while it is operating. Before leaving ensure that all of the windows and doors are closed.
5. Air-Out The Room
Before allowing people or pets back into the treated area, let the area air out for at least 2 hours. But the more hours the better. Once you enter and there is still a faint ozone smell, open the doors and windows to let some fresh air in.
What To Consider When Selecting An Ozone Generator?
The following are important factors that should be taken into account when choosing an ozone generator:
1. Contaminant/Odor Type
Before using this device, it is crucial to decide where and for what. Smoke, fumes, exhaust gases, and other emissions are easily removed with mild ozone treatments. To eliminate bacteria, heavy cigarette smoke, mold, and other offensive odors, a prolonged ozone shock is required.
2. Contamination Level
More ozone will be needed and the process will take longer if the contamination level is high. You should seek the advice of a professional in clean-up and remediation if your homes have significant mold growth and significant smoke buildup.
3. Treatment Area Size
You are advised to select your ozone generator based on the size of the room that needs to be treated.
4. Temperature
Compared to low temperatures, it is said that high temperatures cause ozone to deplete more quickly. Therefore, it makes sense to use ozone on days when the temperature is high to prevent health problems.
5. Humidity
In contrast to moist air (humid), ozone generators are thought to produce more ozone in dry air.
6. Suitable Treatment Period
A smaller area of your home will require less ozone to clear (shorter treatment times). Whereas a larger area will require more ozone (longer treatment times).
Final Thoughts
Nothing makes you happier as a homeowner than ensuring that your house always feels and even smells as clean and fresh as possible. There isn't anything much more effective than a good ozone generator when it comes to producing that ideal atmosphere.
To ensure that homes are maintained in the best condition possible for years to come, these devices have been created with safety and security in mind. But knowing exactly what you'll be doing and how to handle these machines can make all the difference in the world.
You must make sure you adhere to the instructions provided by the manufacturers and keep all living things as far away from it as you can. Utilize your generator to its full potential right now by keeping this information in mind.
For ozone generator alternatives, check the posts below.
How To Use Nature Fresh Air Purifier Bags?
Can You Use An Air Purifier And Humidifier Together?