Equipment Guide · Safety-Critical
How to Use an Ozone or Hydroxyl Generator (Deodorization)
Ozone and hydroxyl generators remove odors at the source. The key difference matters for safety: ozone requires unoccupied spaces, while hydroxyl generators can often run in occupied areas. Always follow the unit's instructions.
Safety first: This equipment can be hazardous if operated incorrectly. This guide is a general overview — always follow the unit's manual, use proper PPE, and contact Allied Rental Company's team for hands-on guidance. It does not replace professional training.
⚠ Safety essentials
- OZONE IS NOT SAFE TO BREATHE. Ozone treatment must be done in UNOCCUPIED spaces — remove people, pets and plants, seal the area, and ventilate thoroughly before re-entry.
- Hydroxyl generators are generally safe for occupied spaces, but still follow the manufacturer's guidance.
- Post warning signs during ozone treatment and never enter a space mid-treatment without proper protection.
- Follow required treatment and airing-out times before reoccupying.
Step by step
Choose ozone vs. hydroxyl
Use hydroxyl for occupied spaces or sensitive materials; use ozone only where the area can be fully vacated and sealed.
Prepare the space
For ozone: remove all people, pets and plants, and seal the area. For hydroxyl: set up per the manual.
Size the treatment
Match the generator output and run time to the space volume and odor severity.
Run the treatment
Start the unit and, for ozone, leave the sealed space for the full treatment time. Post warning signs.
Ventilate & verify
After ozone treatment, ventilate fully and wait until it's safe before reoccupying. Verify the odor is resolved.
Rent this equipment
Allied Rental delivers, sets up and supports across the San Francisco Bay Area — and our team walks you through safe operation.