For many applications, both residential and commercial, the use of hydroxyl machines for odor neutralization and removal of bacteria and other contaminants is quite valuable. However, there are a few common misconceptions about these machines that might deter you from using them or lead you toward using them improperly. We’re here to debunk those myths and ensure you have accurate information for future rentals.
At 1 Source Portable Air, we proudly offer a wide variety of HVAC equipment rentals, including drying and air quality equipment such as hydroxyl machines, air scrubbers, dehumidifiers and more. You can also rely on use to provide robust information on any item in our fleet. We aim to ensure you’re familiar with how the unit works, as well askey considerations about the unit before renting. With this in mind, we’d like to share some of the most common myths regarding hydroxyl machines, also referred to as hydroxyl generators, plus the correct information to counter these untruths.
Perhaps due to their name or the way they look, some people believe that hydroxyl machines actually produce contaminants rather than remove them. However, this couldn't be further from the truth!
In fact, these machines work by using UV light to break down the chemical structure of odors and other pollutants to render them harmless. By doing this, hydroxyl machines actually make the environment safer and more breathable, a far cry from producing more contaminants.
In no way is this UV light a form of contamination – it's simplyt a gentle, natural process that helps to clean the air.
This myth is the result of confusing hydroxyl generators with ozone generators. Hydroxyl generators do not produce ozone, and in fact, this is one of the biggest misconceptions about them.
Also used as a deodorizer and sanitization tool, ozone generators emit ozone, a type of gas),into the air to clean it. This concentration of ozone in an enclosed space is not safe for people or animals, so although ozone generators are an alternate method for air purification, they are not interchangeable for hydroxyl machines. Conversely, hydroxyl machines are perfectly safe for people and animals to be around while in use, making them an incredibly versatile option for odor control and air sanitization.
This myth is perhaps the most damaging of all – the idea that these machines don't perform as advertised, or that their impact is only temporary. The truth, however, is that hydroxyl machines are incredibly effective at removing odors, bacteria and other contaminants from the air.
When used according to manufacturer guidelines and with proper maintenance and upkeep, these devices can provide ongoing results for months or even years, if necessary. In some cases, they may even be able to eliminate odors that other methods can't, such as food-based smells or pet odors. For instance, many restaurants, hotels and other commercial establishments rely on them to keep their air fresh – meaning that they work quite well indeed.
When we talk about VOCs, we're referring to volatile organic compounds, substances that are emitted from various products and materials, such as paints, solvents, cleaners, furniture and more. Some assume that hydroxyl machines won't be able to handle VOCs or other strongly-smelling chemicals in the air, but this isn't true either.
In fact, many of today's modern hydroxyl machines are designed to handle VOCs and other heavy-duty odors with ease. As long as they're used correctly, they will be effective in reducing contaminants such as these and keeping the air clean and healthy.
There are also some who mistakenly believe that the technology behind hydroxyl machines is not yet fully understood or that it’s not as reliable as other technologies. In reality, however, these machines have been around for quite some time and have proven to be very effective in removing odors and contaminants from the air.
The science behind them has also been studied extensively over the years, and their efficacy has been well-documented, meaning they can be trusted to work as expected. As long as they are used properly and maintained accordingly, they will provide excellent results for odor control and air purification.
At the end of the day, hydroxyl machines are an incredibly effective and versatile way to remove odors, bacteria and other contaminants from the air. By dispelling these common myths, you can ensure that you're getting the most out of this technology and using it in the best way possible for your particular application.
For more on this, or to learn about any of our drying and air quality products or other HVAC equipment rentals, speak to our team at 1 Source Portable Air today.
