If you have a property insurance claim involving odor from wildfire smoke, mold or mildew, or any other malodor, use hydroxyl generators. They are superior to other methods of odor control such as thermal fogging, sealing, painting or a combination of these. Hydroxyl generators are also less expensive overall when handling smoke claims.
Even if a house's attic framing is cleaned and sealed after smoke exposure, complaints may later arise about lingering odors. This is particularly true during hot months. However, this can all be avoided by using hydroxyl generators instead of thermal fogging or other masking agents, since they "produce hydroxyl radicals that break apart odor molecules."—"Hydroxyl Generators: The Definitive Guide."
Hydroxyl generators also involve far less hassle for property owners, and they are much less expensive for their effect than any other traditional method that has been used. Further from the article, "Hydroxyl Generators: The Definitive Guide":
It is a relatively simple process compared to other popular odor removal methods as it does not require additional intervention by masking agents, chemicals, oils, and so on. There is also no fogging, spraying or wiping. Hydroxyl generators work simply by being strategically placed throughout an odor-impacted property and turned on. While it will likely take a few days for full results, most people notice the malodor being knocked down within the first few hours. The best way to ensure an odor removal job is complete is by inspecting and smelling porous items throughout the space – where odors would be embedded and take the longest to be remediated.
It is also important to understand how to properly place hydroxyl generators at a loss site. This is explained in part by Tom McArdle, "Hydroxyl Generators: Top Tips for Easy Deodorization" (September 26, 2016):
Hydroxyl generators are easy to use, but proper placement on each project is important. A baseline for the coverage area of each machine is the first step. When treating the moderate to severe odors encountered in the disaster restoration industry, typical coverage area for the most powerful machines is 1,000 to 1,500 square feet with normal ceiling height up to about 20 feet. This estimate is based on significant field experience and feedback.
McArdle also remarks on the value of using hydroxyl generators to address a variety of common property loss conditions. These include:
The strength of the hydroxyl radicals will break apart any odor they may come across – fire and smoke, CAT 2 & 3 water losses, chemical fumes, fuel oil, skunk, curry, VOCs, trauma, etc. – while at the same time not harming anyone or damaging sensitive materials like rubber, plastic, leather, electronics, artwork, wet items, etc.
Testing has been performed over the years by reputable third-party companies such as Underwriters Laboratory (UL), Lovelace Respiratory Research Institute, the FDA, Comparative Biosciences, and Wonder Makers Environmental. This research shows how many hydroxyl radicals are produced, and how much ozone is produced, proving the machines’ safety. Plus, one major hydroxyl generator brand has had its technology approved by the FDA as a Class II medical device for use in occupied areas. In addition, a 13-week toxicity study on rats following FDA GLP guidelines showed no adverse effects. Wonder Makers Environmental, a firm that operates heavily as consultants for remediation contractors across the U.S., also conducted their own testing that showed a dramatic reduction in VOCs in addition to odor elimination while running a hydroxyl generator in a space affected by fire.
This means homeowners who previously might have had to leave the property while the remediation work is being done, can remain on-site. It also means content pack-outs and temporary housing will be greatly reduced if not eliminated altogether by using hydroxyl instead of the older, less effective methods such as ozone and thermal fogging.
To learn more about the use of hydroxyl generators and how they can help you with odor-only claims, watch our video, "Odor 'Damage' Fraud in Property Claims."
