The average person asked about ozone might know something about the ozone layer or know that it is what you smell just before or after a heavy rain.  What many people don’t know is that ozone has been used in the water treatment process since the 1800s.  An ozone generator can be used to purify water in a way that is often more efficient, safe, and cost effective that many other methods.

How Does It Work?

Ozone is a gas composed of three oxygen atoms.  The public perception of its connection to rainstorms is actually more accurate than you might think.  The use of energy is what converts the oxygen into ozone, so the sun’s energy or lightning (hence the thunderstorm connection) will make that happen in nature.  In mechanical processes, an ozone generator creates an electrical field that creates the ozone that is then pulled into the water being treated.

What Does Ozone Do?

Compared to chlorination, ozone is a much stronger disinfectant and is more effective against bacteria.  Ozone will oxidize contaminants such as iron, manganese, and sulfur which can then be removed after the filtration process.  The ozone then dissipates through natural processes, and it creates no lasting impact on the water itself.

Is It Cost Effective?

Ozone generators can be very cost effective if implemented properly.  One must consider the complete system rather than the ozone generator alone.  For instance, an ozone generator that produces a low concentration of ozone may be cheaper, but the cost of oxygen equipment and production will be high.  Typically, concentrations above 13% wt. are recommended.  This may make the generator itself more costly, but it will save you considerably in the long run.  Be sure that your system is also installed with all of the necessary backflow prevention systems that will prevent damage to the generator.