Modern refrigerators have ceased to be just freezers, turning into complex climate systems designed to maximize food freshness. Among the many marketing names for functions such as Total No Frost, Zone Fresh or Multi Air Flow, the term Active Oxygenis increasingly being used. Buyers are often at a loss, not understanding whether this is just another “empty” function or a truly useful technology that affects the quality of storage.
In fact, this name hides the process of active generation of ozone and negative ions, which naturally disinfect the interior of the camera. The operating principle is based on the physicochemical properties of oxygen, which, under the influence of an electric discharge, changes its structure and becomes a powerful oxidizing agent for bacteria. This allows you to keep food fresh much longer than in normal static cold conditions.
In this article we will look in detail at how exactly the system works Active Oxygen, which brands use this technology and whether it is worth overpaying when buying new equipment. Understanding the physical processes occurring inside your kitchen appliances will help you make the right choice and effectively use the capabilities of the device.
The principle of operation of the ozone generation system
The technology is based on the process of electrolysis or corona discharge, which occurs in a special module built into the back wall or upper part of the refrigerator compartment. When air passes through this module, oxygen molecules (O2) are split into atoms and reunited, forming ozone (O3). It is ozone that has the strongest bactericidal properties, destroying up to 99% of pathogenic microorganisms, such as E. coli or staphylococcus.
However, the system Active Oxygen is not only ozonation. At the same time, negatively charged ions are produced, which “stick” to dust particles, odors and volatile compounds that cause food spoilage. Heavy ionized particles settle on the walls or in special filters, preventing odors from mixing. Thanks to this, the fish will not smell like watermelon, and the cheese will not smell like smoked meats.
⚠️ Attention: the concentration of ozone in household refrigerators is strictly regulated and safe for humans, however, people with severe asthma or allergies to ozone should consult a doctor before purchasing a model with active ozonation.
Air circulation in chambers No Frost helps to evenly distribute active particles throughout the entire volume. Pollution sensors analyze the composition of the air and automatically regulate the intensity of the generator. If you just put food with a strong odor or a lot of bacteria inside (for example, defrosted meat), the system will go into enhanced mode.
Key advantages of storage technology
The main goal of any refrigerator is to keep food edible (fit for consumption) for as long as possible. The system Active Oxygen copes with this task more effectively than traditional methods due to the suppression of ethylene. Ethylene is a gas released by ripening fruits and vegetables that initiates the process of rotting. Ozone quickly oxidizes ethylene, turning it into water and carbon dioxide, which significantly slows down fading.
In addition, the technology allows you to maintain an ideal microclimate without the use of chemical odor absorbers, which need to be changed regularly. Unlike carbon filters, which only adsorb odors, active oxygen destroys their molecular structure. This is especially true for families where the refrigerator is often opened and the temperature inside fluctuates (fluctuates).
- 🍓 Extending the shelf life of fresh berries and herbs up to 2-3 times compared to conventional refrigerators.
- 🥩 Preserving the natural color of meat and fish by preventing oxidation of the surface layer.
- 🧀 Complete absence of mixing of odors between different products lying on adjacent shelves.
- 🦠 Reducing the risk of food poisoning due to the constant destruction of bacteria in the air.
It is important to note that the efficiency of operation depends on the loading density of the chambers. If the refrigerator is filled to capacity with food, air circulation is difficult, and it is more difficult for the zone to cover the entire volume. Therefore, it is recommended to leave small gaps between the packages for free flow of air. Active Oxygen it is more difficult to cover the entire volume. Therefore, it is recommended to leave small gaps between packages for free air flow.
Comparison with similar technologies of others brands
Various manufacturers of refrigeration equipment use their own names for similar ionization and ozonation technologies. LG calls its system Plasmacluster, Samsung uses Deodorizer with a carbon filter and ionizer, and Electrolux implements a system AirRush in combination with ionization. Despite the different names, the physical essence of the processes often remains similar.
Technology Active Oxygen, often found in the Haier, Beko or Candy brands, differs in that it is often combined with a silver coating on the inner walls. Silver (Ag) also has antibacterial properties, creating a double barrier for germs. At the same time, some competitors rely exclusively on powerful carbon filters, which require replacement every 6-12 months.
| Technology | Principle of operation | Is it necessary to replace the filter | Effectiveness against odors |
|---|---|---|---|
| Active Oxygen | Generation of ozone and ions | No | High (destruction of molecules) |
| Carbon filter | Adsorption (absorption) | Yes (once a year) | Average (saturates over time) |
| Silver Nano | Silver ions in the coating | No | Low (bacteria only) |
| Deodorizer | Circulation through catalyst | Partly | High |
When choosing a model, you should pay attention not only to the name of the function, but also to the presence of an indication of the need for maintenance. Some systems Active Oxygen have a built-in timer that signals the need to clean the air ducts, although the generator itself usually lasts the entire life of the refrigerator.
Impact on vitamins and food structure
There is a common myth that ozonation can destroy beneficial vitamins in vegetables and fruits. Research shows that short-term exposure to low concentrations of ozone produced by household refrigerators does not adversely affect vitamin composition (especially vitamin C and carotenoids). On the contrary, by suppressing decay processes, the system preserves beneficial substances longer.
However, there are nuances regarding products with very thin skins or high sensitivity to oxidation. In rare cases, active oxygen can cause cuttings of some greens to dry out faster if they are not packaged. Therefore the ideal use scenario is to store products in special containers or cling filmwhich creates a balance between protection from bacteria and moisture retention.
⚠️ Attention: Do not store open products with a high fat content (butter, lard) in close proximity to the outlet of the ozonated air stream for a long time, since fats can oxidize faster, acquiring a rancid taste.
For most standard products - meat, milk, vegetables, fruits - the impact of technology is extremely positive. It creates an environment close to the natural conditions of caves or cellars, where the air is saturated with ions, but devoid of pathogenic flora.
Can ozone damage plastic containers?
Modern food plastics (PP, PE) are resistant to low concentrations of ozone used in refrigerators. However, old or low-quality plastics may become more brittle or lose color over time (after 5-7 years). It is recommended to use containers marked "Food Safe".
Energy consumption and noise level
The generation module Active Oxygen consumes a minimal amount of electricity. Typically its power is only a few watts, which has virtually no impact on overall light bills. The operation of the generator is often synchronized with the operation of the compressor or fan, so it does not produce a separate hum.
The noise level of the refrigerator depends primarily on the type of compressor (inverter or conventional) and the quality of the housing insulation. The ozone formation process itself occurs silently. However, if you hear periodic quiet hissing or crackling, this may be a sign of a malfunction of the high-voltage module of the generator, which requires contacting service.
- ⚡ Generator energy consumption: less than 1-2 W per hour.
- 🔇 Impact on overall noise: none (if working properly).
- 🛠 Module operating life: usually coincides with the service life of the refrigerator (10+ years).
Energy efficiency class A+ or A++, declared by the manufacturer, already takes into account the operation of all built-in systems, including ionizers. Therefore, the presence of the function Active Oxygen does not transfer the refrigerator to a lower energy consumption class.
Recommendations for operation and care
For the system to work as efficiently as possible, you must follow simple operating rules. First of all, this is regular defrosting (if the model is not No Frost) and keeping the drainage holes clean. Clogged drains interfere with air circulation, negating the work of any antibacterial systems.
It is not recommended to seal or block the ventilation holes on the back wall of the chamber with decorative elements or too densely arranging products. The air should flow freely around the generator and be distributed throughout the volume. It is also worth periodically wiping the internal surfaces with a soft cloth soaked in a weak solution of soda to remove grease deposits that can block ions.
☑️ Monthly care of the refrigerator with Active Oxygen
If you notice that odors have ceased to be eliminated or products have begun to deteriorate faster than usual, diagnostics of the module may be required. Some models have a light indicator that flashes when the air purification system is malfunctioning.
Is it worth overpaying for this function
The answer to this question depends on your habits and family composition. If you buy food in large quantities for a week, often cook for children or elderly people for whom food safety is critical, then the function Active Oxygen is definitely worth the overpayment. It acts as an additional guarantee of security.
For single people or those who buy fresh food every day and store almost nothing in the freezer, this option may be redundant. In this case, you can limit yourself to models with a high-quality carbon filter, which is cheaper to maintain, although less effective against bacteria.
Ultimately, the technology Active Oxygen is a step forward in the evolution of household appliances, moving the refrigerator from the category of an “ice cabinet” to the status of an active guardian of your family’s health.
Is ozone from the refrigerator harmful to children and animals?
The concentration of ozone produced by household refrigerators is negligible and quickly disintegrates into oxygen when leaving the chamber. It does not reach the threshold of harmfulness to the respiratory tract of humans or animals. The danger is posed only by industrial equipment or faulty devices that emit ozone in large volumes, which is not typical for certified household appliances.
Is it possible to replace the Active Oxygen module yourself?
In most cases, the module is a non-removable part of the structure or requires complex disassembly of the case and adjustment of the electronics. Self-replacement is only possible in some models where the filter-generator is placed in an accessible place (like a carbon filter), but most often a call to a technician from an authorized service center is required.
Why is there a strange smell after turning on a new refrigerator?
This may be the smell of new materials (plastic, rubber), which disappears in 2-3 days. If the smell is similar to “thunderstorm” or metal, perhaps in the first hours of operation the process of burning and cleaning the system is actively underway Active Oxygen. After unpacking, it is recommended to leave the refrigerator turned on empty for a day with the door open (if the instructions allow), and then closed, but without food.
Does the system work in the freezer?
Usually the generator Active Oxygen is installed in the refrigerator compartment, since the temperature is higher there and humidity conducive to bacterial growth. In the freezer (at -18°C and below), bacteria do not multiply, but only go into suspended animation, so active ozonation is less effective there and is most often not used. However, air circulation can partially affect the upper drawers of the freezer.