To size an ozone generator, a common method, especially for achieving 'shock' treatment levels, is based on the area you need to treat.
Sizing an ozone generator typically involves matching its ozone output capacity (measured in milligrams per hour, mg/h) to the size of the space you intend to treat. According to one reference, a general guideline for creating 'shock' levels of ozone (which are typically 6-10 ppm) is to use around 1000 mg/h for every 100 square feet of space. These 'shock' levels are significantly higher than the EPA guideline for ozone exposure, which is 1 ppm.
Understanding Shock Treatment Sizing
'Shock' treatment refers to running an ozone generator at high concentrations for a specific period to aggressively treat odors, mold, or other contaminants in an unoccupied space. The sizing rule derived from the reference is specifically for this type of high-intensity treatment based on area.
- Key Metric: Ozone output in mg/h.
- Sizing Factor: Square footage of the treatment area.
- Target Concentration: High 'shock' levels (6-10 ppm).
- Rule of Thumb: Approximately 1000 mg/h per 100 sq ft.
This rule provides a starting point for selecting a generator capable of reaching the required high concentrations needed for effective shock treatment in a given area.
Calculating Based on Area
Using the guideline of 1000 mg/h per 100 square feet, you can estimate the required output for different room sizes:
| Area (Square Feet) | Required Ozone Output (mg/h) |
|---|---|
| 100 | 1000 |
| 200 | 2000 |
| 500 | 5000 |
| 1000 | 10,000 |
| 2000 | 20,000 |
To calculate for any area, divide the total square footage by 100 and then multiply by 1000 mg/h.
Example: For a 750 sq ft space, the estimated requirement for shock treatment would be (750 / 100) 1000 mg/h = 7.5 1000 mg/h = 7500 mg/h.
Factors Beyond Area
While the 1000 mg/h per 100 sq ft rule is useful for shock treatment based on area, actual sizing can also be influenced by other factors:
- Cubic Footage: Volume is more precise than just square footage, especially for rooms with high ceilings. A generator needs to fill the entire volume with ozone.
- Severity of Problem: More severe odors or mold issues may require a more powerful generator or longer treatment times.
- Air Circulation: Good air circulation helps distribute ozone evenly throughout the space.
- Temperature and Humidity: Ozone generation and decay rates can be affected by environmental conditions.
- Desired Treatment Level: The sizing rule discussed is for high 'shock' levels. Sizing for continuous, low-level ozone use (which is generally not recommended for occupied spaces due to health risks and EPA guidelines) would follow entirely different criteria focused on maintaining very low concentrations (e.g., below the 1 ppm guideline) rather than achieving high ones.
For effective shock treatment, ensure the space is unoccupied by humans, pets, and plants, and follow safety guidelines carefully during and after treatment.
