Q: What about the odors in my home or grow space?
A: Small or timed ozonators help repel spider mites, airborne pathogens, molds and mildews. Though ozone only has a half life of about 30 minutes (before it reverts back to oxygen) these ozonators must be on a timed system. When the smell of ozone becomes objectionable or you esperience a headache, it is typically at too high a level. Short bursts of ozone, rather than long continuous ones is superior when incorporated within your garden setting. For low odor levels, 1 to 3 minutes on and 10 minutes off will not produce dangerous levels of 03. As the odor increases, then longer on and off times of up to 3 to 5 minutes in every 10 minutes will clean the air in a 10 X 10 foot room without harming your plants.
Q: Should I be in the room when the ozonator is running?
A: It is always best to err on the side of caution. If you find the odor of ozone objectionable you can with the aid of a timer turn off the ozonator 30 minutes before you enter the grow space. Ozone only lasts about 30 minutes before it reverts back to oxygen (O2). This should allow sufficient time for the ozone to dissipate.
Quote from the American National Standards Institute-ANSI Standards for Ozone.
Page 31 Appendix D.
"Although the decomposition (half life) precludes the possibility of large amounts of ozone being present, ozone, like all chemicals capable of oxidation, is a hazardous substance, and ozone-generating equipment can produce dangerous levels of the gas. The United States Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has standards for the exposure to ozone. Research indicates that there are no irreversible effects caused by accidental exposure to low non-lethal concentrations of ozone. As a general principle, however, breathing even low levels of ozone should be avoided at all times. Further information can be obtained from OSHA or the International Ozone Association, Pan American Group, 31 Strawberry Hill Avenue, Stamford, CT 06902".
Q: How can I tell when the ozone levels are too high?
A: A very small percentage of people could be considered ozone sensitive. These people will find the smell of ozone, at any level, to be too much. The EPA and the FDA have stated that levels below .05 ppm, are safe for humans. Again, some people will find any level of ozone approaching this level to be overpowering. Fortunately, it takes long term exposure at levels approaching .1ppm to cause any harm. Even at dangerously high ozone levels, you could easily enter the room and turn off the ozonator without physical damage.
Hope this helps a little.
