How do Ozonators Work?

Ozone gas is produced when oxygen is exposed to ultraviolet light or by “corona-discharge” in newer ozonators. It is the same gas that provides the protective layer around the earth’s atmosphere. When ozone gas is injected into your spa water, it acts as a powerful sanitizer that destroys most of the bacteria and viruses present in the spa water. Ozone also breaks down body oils so your water will remain clear and fresh for a longer period than spa water that is only sanitized by bromine or chlorine. By using an ozonator, you will be able to keep your bromine or chlorine concentration at the low end of the “ideal” scale on your water test kit.

Ozone water purification is 3000 times more powerful than ordinary water sanitizers and it allows you to keep less bromine or chlorine in your spa. Your spa will use less sanitizer because the ozone will kill the majority of the bacteria. This will reduce the chemical odor from your hot tub and you will experience less skin, nasal and eye irritation.

Ozone generators either contain an ultraviolet light bulb or an electronic (corona discharge) device that converts oxygen to ozone. Ozone gas travels through an airline that is connected to a water jet. The water running through the jet creates a venturi and sucks the ozone into the spa water during regular filtration. Some spas have jets that are manufactured with a specific ozone jet that is usually located near the bottom of the hot tub. If your spa does not have a designated ozone jet, the ozone line can be easily plumbed into an existing jet with an adapter kit or can be plumbed into the main plumbing line with an ozone injector. Ozone bulbs typically last for about 2 years and then should be replaced.