Ozone generators help get rid of strong plant smells and kill mold, bacteria, and viruses in a grow room. But ozone can be dangerous if you’re not careful - so here’s what you need to know to stay safe and get the best results.
What Ozone Generators Do
Ozone generators make ozone gas (O3), which kills germs in the air and breaks down odors. It’s a powerful cleaner, but you shouldn’t breathe it in.
Some growers use plug-in ozone generators outside the grow tent or inline models inside ductwork for large spaces.
A grower explains:
“I use a carbon filter first, then an ozone generator in my exhaust duct. No smell leaks at all, even during late flowering!” - Growers Network
Safety Considerations: Timing, Exposure, Worker Safety
Never breathe ozone. Leave the room before turning on the generator, and don’t return until it’s switched off and aired out. If you smell ozone, it’s not safe.
Pick a generator that’s the right size for the room - too large and it can generate excess ozone, which is harmful to people, plants, and beneficial microbes.
Always set the machine on a timer and let the room air out for at least an hour before going back in. The U.S. government says the safe limit is just 0.10 parts per million (ppm).
Tell anyone working or visiting if the unit is ON so they don’t accidentally walk in.
A Reddit grower says:
“Keep room unvented for another 15 min, then vent room normally. If no outside venting, you should avoid the grow room/space for 3-4 hours.”
How to Integrate Ozone with Air Purifiers and Circulation
Use ozone along with carbon filters - not instead of them. The best setup is a carbon filter at the start, ozone generator in the middle, and strong fans to push out clean air.
Place inline generators in the exhaust duct after the fans, leaving enough duct length after the ozone unit for gas to mix and break down odors.
Don’t run ozone generators 24/7 - only use them when rooms are empty and for short periods.
For a deeper dive into designing your airflow and ducting system, see our Ins & Outs of Grow Room Ventilation.
Step-by-Step Maintenance and Usage Tips
- Check and follow the manufacturer’s instructions every time.
- Clean and dust the fans and vents on your machine regularly.
- Make sure the timer works - and double-check before opening the door.
- Replace bulbs or plates in the generator as the manual says.
- Do a test run at low power first and check for leaks or warning smells.
Order Your Grow Room Ozone Generator
Find trusted Commercial Ozone Generators and replacement parts at purennatural.com. Get expert advice on the best model for your grow space and learn more about safe air cleaning accessories for serious growers.
Still have questions? Contact us and get personalized recommendations within an hour.
Want to Grow Smarter?
Before adding ozone, make sure your overall grow room design is solid - start with our Planning for Success: 5 Tips for Building a Commercial Grow Room.
Controlling humidity and temperature is also critical for safe and effective ozone use - check out How to Lower Humidity in Grow Room Setup for detailed guidance.
Learn More and Stay Compliant
For a deeper dive into optimal humidity, temperature, and grow room setup, download our Marijuana Grow Room Setup Guide.
And don’t miss our 2025/2026 Cannabis Compliance Playbook, a straightforward, practical resource to help you stay compliant, reduce costs, and keep your grow clean, safe, and efficient.
