Equipment Highlight: Hydroxyl Generator

Hydroxyl generators are an important part of the water and fire damage restoration process. Let’s take a deeper dive to find out how this equipment works and why they’re used.

What is a Hydroxyl Generator?

Hydroxyl generators are a type of equipment that is used to purify and deodorize indoor air and odors. It aims to duplicate the natural process that creates superoxide ions and hydroxyl radicals. This machine is run indoors to decrease air pollution and contamination from pollutants that can be harmful, and help eliminate strong odors in the air. Unlike an ozone generator, a hydroxyl generator is completely safe to be used indoors, without posing any health hazards to humans or animals. 

How do Hydroxyl Generators Work?

Hydroxyl generators create hydroxyl radicals, peroxides, and super-oxide ions – all of which contain oxygen that will break down and safely eliminate airborne fungal spores, viruses, bacteria, and other dangerous biological agents. The generators employ the use of UVA lights, or black lights, in the process to clean and deodorize the air instantly as they pass through the chamber. The UVA lights are used to excite titanium dioxide particles (the same is used in toothpaste!), that then produce large amounts of hydroxyl radicals. A large movement of air is important for hydroxyl generators because of the short amount of time the hydroxyl radicals are active. It is important to note that hydroxyl generators are used for airborne contaminants only, and not for cleaning surfaces.

Who Uses Hydroxyl Generators?

Hydroxyl generators are mainly used by water and fire damage restoration companies like Dry Kings because of the non-toxic way the generators eliminate mold, odors, and other contaminants that are airborne. These generators can be run for lengthy periods of time (3-5 days) and are safe for humans, animals, and plants to be present while the generator is working. Hydroxyl generators have also been used safely aboard spacecrafts to help clean and deodorize the air.

Have more questions about hydroxyl generators? Give Dry Kings a call!

If you’ve recently experienced water, fire, or smoke damage, contact Dry Kings today for a free assessment. Depending on what damage and contaminants are found in your home or office, the professionals at Dry Kings may need to use a hydroxyl generator. Call us today at 415-367-0710 to talk to a professional who can help you make the safest decision for your situation.