What you need to run an oxygen-fed ozone generator
Short answer: besides the generator, you need an oxygen source (a tank or a concentrator), a low-flow oxygen regulator if you use a tank, ozone-resistant silicone tubing, and a diffuser if you are ozonating a liquid.
1. An oxygen source
Our generators make ozone from oxygen, not room air. Air is roughly 78% nitrogen, 21% oxygen and 1% trace gases such as argon, so feeding a generator pure oxygen lets it reach much higher ozone concentrations. You can use:
- An oxygen tank. Tanks hold 99% pure oxygen and are available from welding shops, or through a prescription from your doctor.
- An oxygen concentrator, which makes oxygen from room air as you need it.
Both are sold separately. One firm rule: bottled oxygen should only be used with ozone generators designed to be fed with oxygen. Never feed oxygen to a generator designed for air.
2. A low-flow regulator
If you use a tank, the regulator controls how fast oxygen flows into the generator. Flow rate is one of the two things that set your ozone concentration, so a regulator with a fine, low flow range gives you real control. Our CGA-540 low-flow regulator is easy to use, works with ozone generators, fits oxygen cylinders up to 3,000 PSI, and has a wrench-tightened connection.
3. Ozone-resistant tubing
Ozone is a strong oxidizer and breaks down many ordinary plastics and rubbers over time. Silicone tubing has an A rating against ozone, which is why we say silicone tubing is a must for any ozone system. Use it for every connection that carries ozone, and replace it if it hardens or cracks. Our 6 feet of silicone tubing is there when you need more length than comes with your unit.
4. Tight connections
Leaks waste ozone and let it into the room. The WPS-100 uses luer lock connections and the WPS-120 uses 316 stainless steel luer locks for an air tight seal. The WPS-400 has hose barb fittings sized for 3/16″ silicone hose. Push tubing fully onto each fitting and check connections before you start.
5. A diffuser for liquids
If you are ozonating water, oil or another liquid, a stone diffuser breaks the gas into small bubbles. The smaller the bubbles coming through the liquid, the more saturated with ozone the liquid becomes. Ours is an all natural stone that will not break down with use of ozone.
What already comes in the box
- WPS-100: hoses to connect to oxygen, silicone and vinyl tubing, a stone diffuser, and a lightweight aluminum case.
- WPS-400: hoses to connect to oxygen, ozone resistant silicone outlet hoses, a stone diffuser, and an aluminum case.
- WPS-120: a calibrated output chart and stainless steel luer lock connections.
A simple checklist
- Generator
- Oxygen tank or concentrator
- Low-flow regulator (for tanks)
- Silicone tubing
- Stone diffuser (for liquids)
- A well ventilated place to work
Questions we get asked
Can I use a welding oxygen tank?
Our older guide notes that oxygen tanks are available from welding shops or through a prescription from your doctor, and that tanks hold 99% pure oxygen.
Can I use regular aquarium tubing?
Use silicone. It has an A rating against ozone, while many other tubings break down with ozone.
Do I need a regulator with a concentrator?
A regulator is for tanks. A concentrator has its own flow control; set it to the flow your output chart calls for.
A note on safety
Ozone is a strong oxidizer and it is harmful to breathe. Run your generator in a well ventilated room, keep the ozone inside tubing and closed containers, never breathe it directly, and follow the instructions that come with your unit.