Hydroxyl Generator
A device that produces hydroxyl radicals using UV light to neutralize odors, volatile organic compounds, and biological contaminants in the air. Safe to use in occupied spaces, unlike ozone generators.
What Is a Hydroxyl Generator
A hydroxyl generator is a deodorization device that uses specific wavelengths of ultraviolet light to produce hydroxyl radicals from ambient humidity, creating a powerful oxidizer that breaks down odor molecules, volatile organic compounds, bacteria, and viruses at the molecular level without requiring evacuation of the treated space. Hydroxyl radicals are the same molecules that clean the earth's outdoor atmosphere. The generator replicates this natural process indoors at an accelerated rate.
Hydroxyl vs. Ozone Treatment
Ozone generators have been used in restoration for decades, but ozone is a respiratory irritant at the concentrations needed for deodorization. The treated space must be vacated and sealed during treatment, and materials like rubber, certain plastics, and colored fabrics can be damaged by ozone exposure. Hydroxyl generators avoid these limitations. The space can remain occupied during treatment, no materials are at risk of damage, and the hydroxyl radicals are more reactive than ozone, meaning they break down a wider range of odor compounds.
Hydroxyl Generators in Insurance Estimates
Hydroxyl generator operation is billed as a daily equipment charge in Xactimate. The estimate should include the number of units (based on the cubic footage of the affected area and the generator's rated coverage), the daily rate, and the total run days required to achieve deodorization. Hydroxyl treatment is commonly used alongside physical cleaning on fire and smoke damage claims. Adjusters generally accept hydroxyl treatment as a standard deodorization method, especially when the alternative ozone treatment would require the homeowner to vacate.
Frequently asked questions
A hydroxyl generator uses specific wavelengths of UV light to create hydroxyl radicals from humidity in the air. Hydroxyl radicals are naturally occurring, highly reactive molecules that break down odor-causing compounds, volatile organic compounds, and biological contaminants at the molecular level. They are the same molecules that clean the outdoor atmosphere.
Hydroxyl generators are safe for occupied spaces because hydroxyl radicals are naturally present in outdoor air and are not harmful at the concentrations produced. Ozone generators produce ozone at concentrations that are irritating and potentially harmful to people, animals, and rubber or fabric materials. Ozone treatment requires the space to be vacated. Hydroxyl treatment does not.
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