Ozone Machines Might Smell Like Clean Air—But Here’s What They’re Really Doing to Your Home and Health

Learn how ozone generators work, what they’re really used for, and why using them incorrectly can be harmful instead of helpful

They sound high-tech, a little mysterious, and kind of like something you’d find in a superhero’s lair. Ozone machines—also called ozone generators—are often marketed as powerful tools for purifying air, neutralizing odors, and even eliminating mold. But what is ozone exactly, and should you really be using one of these gadgets in your home?

Let’s break it down in plain language: what ozone machines are, what they’re actually for, when to use them (if at all), and how to avoid the biggest mistakes people make with them.

What is ozone and why would anyone want it in their house?

Ozone is a molecule made of three oxygen atoms (O₃). You’ve probably heard of it in two very different contexts: up in the ozone layer protecting the planet, and down on Earth where it can cause respiratory issues. That’s because ozone is both a natural shield in the upper atmosphere and a powerful oxidizer at ground level.

Ozone machines intentionally produce ozone gas to “shock” spaces—oxidizing and neutralizing things like smoke, mildew, pet odors, and airborne pathogens. In theory, the gas reacts with pollutant molecules and breaks them down. Sounds great, right?

Well, sort of.

What ozone machines are used for (and when they actually make sense)

You’ll often find ozone generators used by professionals in:

• Smoke remediation: After a fire or heavy smoke damage, ozone is sometimes used to help eliminate deeply absorbed odors in walls and carpets.

• Mold removal: When paired with cleaning, it can help eliminate lingering mold odors—but not the mold itself. (More on that in a moment.)

• Car detailing: Some auto services use portable ozone machines to get rid of stubborn smells like cigarette smoke in upholstery.

• Commercial sanitization: Ozone is occasionally used in water treatment or for disinfection in unoccupied rooms.

According to the EPA, however, there’s a big caveat: ozone doesn't clean air particulates like dust, pollen, or dander, and its use comes with some serious safety warnings.

What not to do with an ozone machine—like, ever

Here's where things get important. Ozone may sound like a miracle air purifier, but improper use can be dangerous. That’s why the EPA and other health authorities caution against everyday residential use.

• Do not run ozone machines while people or pets are in the room. Ozone can cause coughing, chest pain, shortness of breath, and irritation of the throat and lungs—even in healthy individuals. For people with asthma or other respiratory conditions, exposure can be more serious.

• Don’t use ozone to “kill mold.” It may reduce the odor, but it doesn’t remove the mold itself or the toxins it leaves behind. You still need physical removal and proper remediation.

• Don’t use it for general air purification. Unlike HEPA filters, ozone doesn’t trap particulates. You’re not getting cleaner air—just a chemical reaction that might mask odors.

• Don’t run it around plants, pets, or electronics. Ozone can damage rubber seals, wiring, and even degrade indoor materials with prolonged exposure.

According to California Air Resources Board research, even devices marketed as “safe” can exceed indoor ozone exposure limits quickly. That fresh, sharp smell some people associate with cleanliness? That’s ozone—and it’s not necessarily a good sign.

So when is ozone actually useful?

If you’ve just acquired a home that had heavy smokers, experienced flood damage, or is plagued with deeply embedded odors, hiring a professional remediation company to do a controlled ozone “shock treatment” might be worth considering. They’ll ensure the space is unoccupied, sealed off, ventilated afterward, and properly tested.

For everyday odor issues, you're better off with:

• HEPA air purifiers with activated carbon filters

• Opening windows and increasing ventilation

• Cleaning soft surfaces and fabrics

• Using natural odor absorbers like baking soda or charcoal

Are there safer alternatives to ozone for home use?

Yes! You can tackle most indoor air issues without ever touching an ozone machine. Try:

• HEPA air purifiers

• Natural enzyme cleaners for pet accidents

• Dehumidifiers to fight moisture and mold

• Essential oil diffusers (in pet-safe blends and moderation)

  
  

Bottom line: Ozone is powerful, but not always safe—or necessary

Ozone machines have a very specific niche—and for most households, they’re overkill. While they can be useful tools in the hands of trained professionals, they shouldn’t be running in your living room, bedroom, or office during daily life.

The promise of “cleaner air” might be tempting, but you shouldn’t trade your lungs for a fresher-smelling couch.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional advice. Ozone machines can be hazardous if misused. Always consult environmental safety professionals or certified remediation experts before using ozone devices in your home or workplace. Follow all manufacturer guidelines and never operate ozone machines in occupied spaces.