Ozone Generators Can Be Used Safely

Thank you for continuing to be the most informative green building publication available today! Your October feature article, “Air Filtration in Buildings” (

Vol. 12, No. 10), was a wealth of information.

Proper use of ozone generators for cleaning indoor air is misunderstood and misrepresented in too many articles. As a healthy home consultant, interior designer, and allergy-challenged individual, I have been using ozone generators for years, and they have certainly protected my health when I was forced to stay in environments with toxic mold (hotels, friends’ and families’ homes, etc.).

When an ozone generator is used

properly as a tool for improving indoor air conditions related to biological contaminants then it is

not toxic. The only way this tool should be used is when inhabitants (including animals and humans) are not in the house or building. After the unit has been running for the appropriate amount of time (varies with room size), it should be turned off by someone wearing a respirator. The windows and doors should then be opened for natural ventilation. Once the room is well ventilated, it is safe to reenter the building.

Alpine Industries did make false claims, informing their customers that it was appropriate to run ozone at low levels at all times, and that this was “good for all people, especially those with allergies.” This is where the confusion begins. Ozone is a toxic gas, especially to individuals suffering from autoimmune deficiencies. However, if ozone is used

properly, as stated above, the toxicity is not a threat. By the way, Alpine Industries is still in business, and they are still making these false claims.

As a mold-sensitive individual, I always know when I am exposed to toxic mold because I have recurring symptoms, which include debilitating headaches, muscle cramping, and depression. “Ozonating” the indoor air that is creating these symptoms is the

only thing that cures these symptoms. I have been using this tool for over 12 years, so I know for a fact that ozone

does break down and eliminate mold spores.

As consumers and researchers, we need to examine and justify information about controversial issues such as this one. Just because Alpine made unwise claims does not mean that ozone is not a good tool for cleaning up indoor air contaminants. It is all about the proper use of this tool.

Cindy Meehan-Patton

Shelter Ecology, Inc.

Asheville, North Carolina