Ozone – Transforming the Way We Treat Water
While ozone water treatment has existed for decades, it has gained significant attention in recent years as sustainability and environmental awareness continue to grow. With increasing focus on reducing chemical use and improving water quality, ozone has become one of the most promising and eco-friendly solutions available today.
Ozone’s ability to disinfect water efficiently, eliminate harmful contaminants, and minimise chemical byproducts makes it an ideal fit for modern sustainable water management. Its versatility also means it can be used across multiple applications — from wastewater and drinking water treatment to industrial processes — helping protect both public health and the environment.
What is Ozone – Simplified
Ozone water treatment is a natural and sustainable process that uses ozone gas (O₃) to purify and disinfect water by breaking down organic and inorganic pollutants. It’s a highly effective and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional chemical treatments.
Ozone systems can recycle both rainwater and wastewater to exceptional quality — often clean enough for safe reuse, including drinking water applications within facilities.
Extensive studies show that ozone eliminates all microorganisms and up to 99% of viruses, effectively destroying bacteria, algae, and biofilm with no risk of immunity or resistance over time.
How Ozone Works
Ozone is created using electricity — specifically through a process known as corona discharge, which mimics the way ozone forms naturally during a lightning storm.
An ozone generator applies a high-voltage electrical discharge to oxygen contained within a steel, glass, or ceramic chamber. This reaction splits oxygen molecules (O₂), forming ozone (O₃). The ozone gas is then introduced into water through a venturi injector or bubbling system, beginning the purification process.
The Ozone Treatment Process
- Pre-Filtration – Raw water enters the system and passes through an initial filtration stage.
- Ozonation – Ozone is added to the water, rapidly acting within 5–10 minutes before naturally breaking down.
- Secondary Filtration – The treated water then passes through another filter to remove remaining impurities.
- Carbon Filtration – A carbon filter further polishes the water and removes any residual traces.
- UV Disinfection – Ultraviolet light ensures complete sterilisation by eliminating any remaining microorganisms.
- Return to System – The purified water is returned to the system, ready for use.
- (Optional) Chemical Dosing – Additional chemical treatment can be included if required for specific applications.
Key Benefits of Ozone Water Treatment
Chemical-Free Solution
Ozone treatment eliminates contaminants without the need for added chemicals. The process leaves no chemical residue, creates no harmful byproducts, and the ozone itself naturally dissipates back into oxygen — leaving water completely safe for use.
This reduces the environmental impact by eliminating the need for chemical transport, handling, and storage.
Highly Effective Disinfection
Ozone is one of the most powerful oxidisers available — 51% stronger than chlorine with a kill rate 3.125 times faster. It destroys bacteria, viruses, algae, and microorganisms on contact, achieving rapid and thorough disinfection while breaking down into oxygen within just 20 minutes.
No Odour or Taste
Unlike chlorine and other chemical disinfectants, ozone leaves no taste, smell, or residue in treated water. It not only disinfects water but also removes odours from air and other materials, improving overall water quality.
Water Reuse and Sustainability
Treated wastewater can safely re-enter natural waterways or be reused for grey water applications, reducing overall water consumption and supporting sustainability goals.
Low Maintenance Operation
Ozone systems are fully automated and self-cleaning, with minimal maintenance needs — typically only two to three service visits per year. The use of corrosion-resistant PVC piping also enhances system longevity and reliability.
Conclusion
Although the initial investment in an ozone water treatment system may be higher than traditional methods, the benefits far outweigh the cost. Ozone delivers immediate results, improves water quality, and significantly reduces long-term chemical and maintenance expenses.
With most facilities seeing a return on investment within the first year, ozone technology offers a sustainable, safe, and cost-effective approach to water treatment — transforming not only water, but the way we manage it.