How to clean and maintain the Devilbiss 525DS

How to Clean and Maintain the DeVilbiss 5 Liter Oxygen Concentrator – 525DS

   

Proper maintenance keeps the DeVilbiss 525DS Oxygen Concentrator operating safely and efficiently. This guide explains how to clean filters, care for accessories, and understand which service steps are user versus provider responsibilities. Following these steps helps maintain oxygen output, extend equipment life, and ensure safety.

For a complete overview of system setup and operating features, visit the concentrator guide.

 

Clean the external air filter

Weekly, or more often in dusty environments

  • Locate the air intake filter on the back of the unit near the power cord.
  • Remove the filter and rinse it in warm water with mild dish soap (about two tablespoons soap to two cups water).
  • Rinse thoroughly to remove soap. Towel dry, then allow the filter to air-dry completely.
  • Do not operate the concentrator without the filter or while it is damp.
  • Inspect the filter regularly and replace if torn or damaged.

Model note: Units manufactured since October 2020 use a redesigned filter door that may not include a gross particle filter. The door has horizontal vents to improve airflow and is backward compatible with earlier models.

Vitality Medical offers a full lineup of DeVilbiss OEM filters to help maintain reliable performance and extend the life of your concentrator.

 

Clean the humidifier and tubing

  • Use distilled water in the humidifier bottle.
  • Empty, rinse, and refill the bottle daily. Clean weekly with warm water and mild detergent, then air-dry.
  • Replace nasal cannulas, oxygen tubing, and humidifier bottles per manufacturer instructions or between patients.
 

Clean the cabinet exterior

  • Unplug the concentrator before cleaning.
  • Wipe the cabinet with a soft, lint-free cloth lightly dampened with a mild household cleaner or water.
  • Do not spray liquids directly onto the unit or use petroleum-based solvents.
  • Keep liquids away from vents, seams, and the auxiliary oxygen fitting.
 

Routine patient maintenance

  • Clean or replace the cannula, tubing, and humidifier bottle following accessory instructions.
  • Inspect and clean the external air filter as described above. Monitor more closely in dusty or lint-heavy environments.
  • Do not open the housing or attempt internal repairs.
  • Report any persistent alerts or changes in performance to the equipment provider.
 

Provider preventive maintenance

These tasks should be performed by an authorized provider or service technician.

  • Every visit: Check audible alerts and indicator lights at power-on. Inspect the cabinet air filter and filter door vents where applicable.
  • Periodic maintenance (not to exceed every 3 years or 5,000 hours):
    • Check oxygen purity with a calibrated analyzer after at least 20 minutes of operation at 5 LPM.
    • Inspect the intake bacteria filter and replace as needed.
  • During compressor service: Inspect and replace the final bacteria filter and compressor filter as required. Newer models use a sintered bronze compressor filter.
  • Inspect the AC power cord, power switch, and circuit protection. Replace worn components as needed.
  • Use only original DeVilbiss replacement parts to maintain performance and warranty coverage.
 

Service life

  • The expected service life is about five years under normal use, maintenance, and storage conditions.
  • Environmental factors such as temperature, altitude, and humidity can affect component longevity, including sieve beds and compressor performance.
 

Disinfection between patients

Disinfection must be completed by the manufacturer or a qualified service provider. Exterior parts and the power cord can be disinfected with a 1:5 bleach-to-water solution or approved agents such as Mikrobac Forte or Terralin Protect. Apply with a damp cloth, allow a contact time of 10 to 15 minutes, then wipe with drinking-quality water and dry. Replace patient-contact accessories between patients. Do not spray liquids directly onto the unit or into vents.