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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

1

Choose ozone vs. hydroxyl

Use hydroxyl for occupied spaces or sensitive materials; use ozone only where the area can be fully vacated and sealed.

2

Prepare the space

For ozone: remove all people, pets and plants, and seal the area. For hydroxyl: set up per the manual.

3

Size the treatment

Match the generator output and run time to the space volume and odor severity.

4

Run the treatment

Start the unit and, for ozone, leave the sealed space for the full treatment time. Post warning signs.

5

Ventilate & verify

After ozone treatment, ventilate fully and wait until it's safe before reoccupying. Verify the odor is resolved.

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Allied Rental delivers, sets up and supports across the San Francisco Bay Area — and our team walks you through safe operation.