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What to Consider for a Portable Oxygen Concentrator
| Factor | Why It’s Important |
|---|---|
| Flow Rate | Choosing the correct oxygen flow rate is critical for ensuring a patient receives the proper amount of oxygen their body needs—too little can lead to low oxygen saturation. There are two main types of delivery: continuous flow, which provides a steady stream of oxygen at all times, and pulse flow, which delivers oxygen only when the user inhales. Continuous flow is often recommended for those who need constant oxygen when using with a CPAP or BiPAP or if the oxygen user has a tracheotomy. Pulse flow units are typically smaller and better suited for active users, as they allow for lighter machines with longer battery life compared to constant flow machines. Constant flow machines are available with a flow rate of up to 3 liters of true constant flow. Pulse flow machines are available up to a setting of 6. |
| If it’s Approved for Air Travel | All portable oxygen concentrators we carry are approved for air travel and comply with FAA regulations. We also offer portable oxygen concentrators for use by pilots in non-pressurized aircraft. |
| How Long is the Battery Life? | Battery life varies by model and oxygen setting. Portable oxygen concentrators using pulse flow typically last 4 to 6 hours on a single charge, depending on the selected flow rate. Continuous flow units generally have shorter battery life, often around 2 to 4 hours, due to the constant oxygen delivery. Many users carry extra batteries to extend usage for travel or longer outings. |
| How Are Portable Oxygen Concentrator Batteries Charged? |
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| What Are the Sound Levels? | Portable oxygen concentrators are designed to run quietly, typically producing between 38 to 48 decibels, about the same as a soft conversation or a quiet library. Pulse flow models are generally quieter than continuous flow units, which operate more consistently. This low noise level makes them suitable for use in public, during sleep, or while watching TV without disruption. |
| How Much Do Portable Oxygen Concentrators Weigh? | Portable oxygen concentrators vary in weight depending on the type of oxygen delivery system used. Pulse flow models are the lightest, typically weighing between 4 to 6 pounds, and are ideal for active users. Continuous flow units, which provide a steady stream of oxygen, are heavier due to larger compressors and internal components, usually weighing 10 pounds or more. |
| Methods of Carrying a Portable Oxygen Concentrator | Most portable oxygen concentrators are designed with mobility in mind. Lightweight pulse flow models often come with a shoulder strap or custom backpack, making them easy to carry hands-free. Heavier continuous flow units are typically paired with a rolling cart or built-in wheels, allowing users to pull them like a small suitcase. These options help users stay active and mobile while comfortably managing their oxygen needs. |
The Replaceable Components of a Portable Oxygen Concentrator
From time to time, some components of your oxygen concentrator will have to be replaced. This is to ensure that your concentrator is consistently working at its manufacturer-specified best. Here’s a breakdown of some of the replaceable components, as well as their service lives.
| Component | What It’s For | Service Life |
|---|---|---|
| Nasal Cannula & Tubing | A nasal cannula is a soft, flexible tube with two small prongs that sit just inside the nostrils to deliver oxygen directly from a portable oxygen concentrator. It's lightweight and designed for comfort, allowing users to talk and eat while wearing it. The cannula connects to oxygen tubing, which runs from the concentrator to the cannula and carries the oxygen. Tubing comes in various lengths but should be checked regularly for kinks, moisture buildup, or wear that could affect airflow. Both the cannula and tubing should be replaced routinely to ensure clean, consistent oxygen delivery. |
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| Battery | The battery powers the device. Larger batteries provide longer usage times. | Approximately one to three years |
| Charger | Charges the battery and supplies power to the device when not running on battery power. | About one to three years |
| Filters | Filters on a portable oxygen concentrator ensure that clean air is passed through the system into the user’s lungs. These sometimes include external filters and internal ones that may have HEPA filtration. These remove particulates, like bacteria, mold, and pet dander, so they don’t affect health. |
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