Odor Control & Deodorization Flashcards

What is the primary purpose of a deodorizer in carpet cleaning?

Answer: To eliminate or neutralize odor-causing compounds

Deodorizers are specifically formulated to eliminate or neutralize the chemical compounds responsible for unpleasant odors.

Which type of odor is best treated with an enzyme digester?

Answer: Organic odors such as pet urine or food

Enzyme digesters contain biological enzymes that break down organic matter—proteins, uric acid, etc.—that cause odors from pet urine, food, and other organic sources.

What is a 'masking agent' in the context of odor control?

Answer: A substance that produces a pleasant scent to cover up an odor

Masking agents work by covering up the unpleasant odor with a stronger, more pleasant fragrance rather than eliminating the odor source.

At what approximate pH level do most enzyme-based deodorizers work most effectively?

Answer: pH 6–8 (near neutral)

Enzyme-based deodorizers generally work best at near-neutral pH levels (6–8) because most biological enzymes are most active under neutral conditions.

Which chemical process does ozone (O3) use to neutralize carpet odors?

Answer: Oxidation

Ozone (O3) is a powerful oxidizing agent that reacts with and destroys odor-causing molecules through the process of oxidation.

What is the recommended approach when pet urine has penetrated through the carpet, pad, and into the subfloor?

Answer: Sub-surface extraction and treatment of all affected layers including pad and subfloor

When urine penetrates through carpet and pad to the subfloor, effective treatment requires sub-surface extraction and treatment of every contaminated layer to fully eliminate odor.

What does 'source removal' mean in carpet odor control?

Answer: Physically removing or treating the actual contaminating material causing the odor

Source removal means physically eliminating or treating the actual substance causing the odor, which is the most effective long-term odor control strategy.