Many growers are discovering the benefits of deodorizing their grow rooms with inexpensive ozone technology. Steve Andrews of Ozone Environmental Technologies Inc. explains why bigger isn’t always best in the fresh air game.
Ozone (03) is one of the most powerful oxidizers available. 03 doesn’t mask odors like mere air fresheners – it neutralizes odors at the source, then harmlessly converts to C02 and oxygen. Ozone eliminates odors caused by moulds, mildew and damp basements. It even tackles unpleasant odors from tobacco smoke, pets and cooking. In nature, ozone is generated as a byproduct of electrical current in the air and accounts for the wonderful fresh air scent after a lightning storm, and of course the ozone layer is created by the UV radiation of the sun. Commercially, ozone is produced in a similar fashion – ultraviolet light (UV) and corona discharge (CD). CD technology passes air over electrically charged metal plates and produces the highest concentrations of ozone. UV technology passes air over an ultraviolet bulb to achieve the same end at lower concentrations. O.E.T..I. manufactures both systems for applications in air and water treatment.
The goal in air treatment is to remove offending odors to restore a neutral balance. CD ozonators, although powerful, have a number of drawbacks in this application when compared to their UV counterparts. CD, is more expensive, requires more maintenance and encourages a build-up of nitric acid. Nitric acid is highly corrosive to plants, ventilation ductwork and to the unit itself. CD units can lose their effectiveness unless regular maintenance is performed to remove dangerous nitric acid residues. Ironically, the most distracting aspect of the CD unit is the very amount of ozone that it produces. At high concentrations ozone merely replaces one identifiable odor for another.
Ultra violet light is the preferred method for air deodorization. UV units are less expensive, require less maintenance and provide an effective level of ozone concentration without identifiable exhaust gasses. All at less energy consumption than a 100 watt light bulb.
| Technology | UV Light | Corona Discharge |
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Low Cost |
YES |
NO |
When selecting an ozone unit, ensure that the ozone output is suited to the room dimensions. O.E.T..I.’s Uvonair series come ready to plug-in and deodorize rooms up to 1,000, 3,000 and 5,000 cubic feet. O.E.T.I. includes a test kit to confirm optimum ozone levels. The Uvonair Ecobadge included with each unit, helps establish an appropriate ozone residual.
Remember more ozone is not necessarily better when it comes to air purification.
For more information consult leading hydroponic stores in your area.