The use of ozone in water treatment has gained significant popularity in industrial, municipal, and commercial applications due to its high water disinfection capability. However, one of the most common questions is whether ozone leaves residues in treated water. Below, we debunk myths and explain the realities behind this technology.
What Is Ozone and How Does It Work in Water
Ozone (O₃) is a powerful oxidizing agent generated on-site from oxygen in the air. In water ozonation systems, ozone eliminates bacteria, viruses, fungi, organic compounds, and unpleasant odors through oxidation, breaking down microbial cell walls and degrading contaminants.
Unlike other disinfectants such as chlorine, ozone acts quickly and more efficiently, even against resistant pathogens.
Myth 1: Ozone Leaves Chemical Residues in Water
False. One of the main advantages of ozone water treatment is that it does not leave chemical residues. Ozone is an unstable molecule that, after performing its disinfecting function, naturally decomposes into oxygen (O₂). This means it does not generate persistent byproducts or alter the taste, odor, or composition of the water.
For this reason, ozone is widely used in the food and beverage industry, drinking water, pharmaceutical processes, and industrial water treatment.
Myth 2: Ozone Is Dangerous for Human Consumption
Partially false. When applied at controlled concentrations and with proper system design, ozone is safe for water treatment. Ozonation systems are engineered to ensure that any residual ozone decomposes before the water is used. In addition, ozone destruction technologies are available to guarantee process safety.
Reality: Ozone Improves Water Quality
Ozone in water treatment not only disinfects but also helps reduce color, turbidity, iron, manganese, and organic compounds, improving the efficiency of downstream processes such as filtration, ultrafiltration, and reverse osmosis.
Reality: A Sustainable Technology
Because it does not generate chemical residues or require the storage of hazardous chemicals, ozone is a solution aligned with sustainability, chemical reduction, and compliance with environmental regulations.
Conclusion
Ozone does not leave residues in water when applied correctly. Far from being a risk, it is a clean, efficient, and safe technology that provides significant benefits in water purification and disinfection, dispelling myths and establishing itself as a reliable solution for industrial and commercial applications.
American Water Solutions, LLC., is a family business based in Texas. We manufacture reverse osmosis water treatment systems for every application from domestic to industrial.
