Answers to the questions we hear most often about hypochlorous acid, onsite generation, HOCl-AS200 and buying from EcoloxTech. Can’t find yours? Ask us.
About claims on this page
EcoloxTech generators produce a hypochlorous acid solution on site. They are not EPA-registered disinfectants and we make no efficacy claims for them or for the solution they produce. The only EcoloxTech product with disinfection claims is HOCl-AS200 (EPA Reg. No. 101112-1), used according to its label. Research cited here describes published studies of hypochlorous acid and electrolysed water; it is not a claim for any product.
About hypochlorous acid
What is hypochlorous acid (HOCl)?
A weak acid formed when chlorine dissolves in water, and the active form of free available chlorine. It is also produced naturally by white blood cells. See how hypochlorous acid works.
Is it the same as bleach?
No. Bleach is alkaline, so its chlorine is mostly present as hypochlorite ion. Near-neutral HOCl solutions keep most of their chlorine as hypochlorous acid, a different and more reactive species.
What is electrolysed water?
Any solution made by passing an electric current through a brine. It includes acidic anolyte, alkaline catholyte and near-neutral solutions. Near-neutral electrolysed water is the form in which HOCl dominates.
Why does pH matter so much?
Because pH decides how much free chlorine is present as HOCl rather than hypochlorite. Around pH 7.5 it is half and half; at pH 5–6.5 it is almost all HOCl.
Where does hypochlorous acid occur naturally?
White blood cells called neutrophils produce it inside the body as part of the immune response, using an enzyme called myeloperoxidase.
What is free available chlorine?
The total of hypochlorous acid and hypochlorite ion in a solution, measured in parts per million. It is what chlorine test strips and photometers read.
What is ORP?
Oxidation-reduction potential, measured in millivolts: a measure of a solution’s oxidising strength. Useful as a trend indicator alongside ppm and pH.
Does it break down?
Yes. Light, heat, air and organic matter all reduce available chlorine over time, and it reverts towards dilute salt water. Test stored solution before use.
EcoloxTech generators
What do the generators need?
Softened water, food-grade salt or ready-mixed brine, and electricity. Commercial systems also need a water supply, drainage and a pre-filter.
What concentration and pH do they produce?
Micro: up to 200 ppm. EcoloxTech 300: 20–250 ppm at up to 300 L/hr. EcoloxTech 1200: 20–600 ppm at up to 1,200 L/hr. Output pH 5.0–6.5.
Do the generators have EPA registration?
No. Onsite generators are regulated by the EPA as devices, not as registered disinfectants, and we make no efficacy claims for them. For label claims, use HOCl-AS200.
Which size do I need?
It depends on your peak demand and storage. Read the buyer’s guide or book a free sanitation audit.
Do you install them?
Commercial and industrial systems are quoted per installation, with standard installation kits for the E1200 and E240. Ask on the quote form.
Can one generator serve several areas?
Yes. A generator can fill a holding tank that feeds several stations through pumps and distribution lines. See holding tanks and pumps.
What happens during a power cut?
Generation stops, but any solution already in the holding tank remains available. Size storage with that in mind if continuity matters.
Single-cell or membrane: which do you use?
A patented single-pass design that produces one near-neutral stream (pH 5.0–6.5), with no separate acidic or alkaline by-product stream to manage.
What maintenance is required?
Keeping feed water softened and filtered, replacing sediment cartridges, keeping salt or brine topped up, and periodic service. Replacement pumps, valves and controls are listed under parts and accessories.
HOCl-AS200 (EPA Reg. No. 101112-1)
What is HOCl-AS200?
EcoloxTech’s ready-to-use, EPA-registered hypochlorous acid disinfectant, cleaner and deodoriser for hard, non-porous surfaces. Active ingredient: hypochlorous acid 0.0174%.
What organisms is it registered against?
21 bacteria and viruses, including Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella enterica, E. coli, MRSA, SARS-CoV-2, norovirus (as feline calicivirus) and influenza A, all at a 5-minute contact time. The full list is on the kill times page.
How do I use it?
Pre-clean the surface. Spray from 6–8 inches until thoroughly wet, keep it visibly wet for 5 minutes, then allow to air dry. Follow all label directions.
Does it need diluting?
No. It is ready to use; no dilution or mixing is required.
What size is it sold in?
See the product page for current sizes and pricing.
Is it a sterilant?
No. The label states it is not to be used as a terminal sterilant or high-level disinfectant on critical or semi-critical medical devices, although it may be used to pre-clean or decontaminate them before sterilisation.
Where can it be used?
The label lists a wide range of use sites, including hospitals and clinics, schools, restaurants, hotels, ships, offices, agricultural facilities, laboratories and homes, on hard, non-porous surfaces.
How should I store it?
In its original sealed container at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and heat. Record the opening date, and use white HDPE for any secondary container.
Using HOCl safely
Can I mix it with other cleaners?
No. Do not use it with other household or industrial chemicals such as toilet bowl cleaners, rust removers, acids or products containing ammonia; doing so can release hazardous, irritating gas.
Does it damage surfaces?
Prolonged contact with metal may cause pitting or discoloration. Check material compatibility for your equipment, and rinse or wipe where your SOP requires.
Do I still need to clean first?
Yes. HOCl is not a detergent. Soil consumes available chlorine, so remove visible soil before sanitising or disinfecting.
What protective equipment do I need?
Follow the product label and safety data sheet for the product you use, and your site’s own risk assessment.
How should I store generated solution?
In closed, opaque containers, cool and out of sunlight, and test before use. Stored solution loses strength over time.
How do I check strength?
Measure free available chlorine and pH with test strips, test paper or a photometer, and log the result.
Regulations and compliance
Who regulates onsite generators?
In the US, the EPA regulates them as pesticide devices. They must be produced in an EPA-registered establishment and may not carry false or misleading claims. See the regulations page.
When do I need a registered disinfectant?
Whenever your programme, customer, auditor or regulator requires a product with registered claims against specific organisms. Use a registered product such as HOCl-AS200 per label.
Does using HOCl satisfy my food safety plan?
Chemistry is one part of a programme. Your HACCP or food safety plan, your SOPs, verification and records decide compliance. The audit helps map HOCl into an existing plan.
Can I see the research?
Yes. The research hub indexes more than 300 published studies on hypochlorous acid and electrolysed water.
Buying, shipping and support
How do I buy?
The Micro, HOCl-AS200, test equipment, parts and consumables are sold in the shop. Commercial and industrial systems are quoted: use the quote form.
Is there a free consultation?
Yes. The free sanitation audit reviews your tasks and chemical spend and sends a written recommendation.
What about shipping, returns and warranty?
See our shipping policy, warranty and terms and conditions.
Do you ship internationally?
Contact us with your location and requirements; see the shipping policy for standard terms.
Can I lease a system?
Leasing and deposit terms can be discussed for commercial and industrial systems. Choose your preferred purchase path on the quote form.
How do I contact you?
Call +1 561-783-8090 or email sales@ecoloxtech.com.