Mold remediation using traditional methods like bleach or ammonia is tedious, time-consuming, and not always effective at fully eliminating mold. However, ozone offers a practical solution for mold removal. When ozone comes into contact with organic material like mold, it releases nascent oxygen which oxidizes and destroys the mold. The strong oxidizing power of ozone breaks down the cell walls and cellular contents of mold spores and hyphae. It effectively kills the mold at the cellular level.
Compared to other anti-microbial treatments, ozone has certain advantages. Since it’s a gas, it penetrates deeply into porous surfaces like drywall, grout, wood, and fabric to destroy hidden mold growth. It sanitizes the air and eliminates musty odors. Ozone dissipates back into regular oxygen shortly after use, so it doesn’t leave any chemical residues. It’s also more eco-friendly than bleach or chemical biocides.
Using ozone generators
Ozone generators, sometimes called ozone machines, use corona discharge or ultraviolet radiation to produce ozone from regular oxygen. Corona discharge units create a high-voltage electrical discharge to split oxygen molecules, while UV generators use UV lamps. There are a variety of ozone generators on the market from small home units to large industrial ones. Output levels are measured in milligrams per hour. When used properly, ozone generators are an effective way to sanitize areas with mold contamination. Proper use requires following generator manuals for run times and ozone concentrations. Areas being treated must be adequately sealed and unoccupied.
Benefits of ozone mold remediation
Using ozone for mold removal Damage Control 911 has several advantages over other methods:
- Kills mold on surfaces and in the air – Ozone penetrates porous materials and kills mold hyphae and spores that bleach products may miss. It also sanitizes the surrounding air.
- No chemical residues – Ozone naturally converts back to oxygen shortly after use leaving no chemical smells or residues.
- Environmentally friendly – Ozone causes less environmental impact than chemical biocides, which linger or require hazardous waste disposal.
- Covers large areas – Generators effectively treat entire rooms or duct systems speeding up remediation.
- Prevents mold growth – Regular ozone treatments can prevent future mold infestations by keeping areas sanitized.
While ozone has clear benefits for mold removal, it also carries some caveats. Ozone does not address underlying causes of moisture and mold growth. Leaks, humidity issues, and poor ventilation should be corrected to prevent mold from recurring after ozone treatment.
Safety precautions when using ozone
Ozone is a powerful oxidizer at high concentrations. Safety precautions include:
- Follow all manufacturer directions for proper generator use.
- Never run generators in occupied spaces without taking proper safety steps.
- Do not enter spaces being shock treated until ozone concentrations drop to safe levels per monitor readings.
- Ventilate spaces after treatment to purge any remaining ozone.
- Use ozone monitors and alarms to avoid high exposure.
- Keep humidity within recommended the ranges since ozone effectiveness increases at higher humidity.
Taking proper safety measures ensures that ozone is used without health risks. Professional remediators are trained on proper application methods and safety protocols.