Quick Summary:
Before purchasing a portable oxygen concentrator, there are several features to consider. These include oxygen flow settings, battery type, weight, noise levels, types of displays, warranties, longevity, maintenance difficulty, and accessory compatibility
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Introduction
If you’re new to the world of supplemental oxygen, choosing between portable devices might seem intimidating. Having so many options is actually great news! Now, you can be selective about what features best suit your personal preferences.
Thanks to modern technology, there is an ocean of special features to optimize your comfort and convenience.
Oxygen Flow Modes and Settings
The most important consideration when choosing an oxygen concentrator is flow type. Supplementary oxygen units administer oxygen in one of two ways: pulse dose or continuous flow. Which flow type you need depends on your respiratory therapy prescription.
Pulse Dose supplies oxygen as needed when the user inhales. This delivery method is ideal for individuals with a lower-intensity supplemental oxygen prescription. It is the most common delivery method for portable oxygen concentrators.
Continuous Flow provides a stream of oxygen. It is rare to see this in a portable oxygen concentrator, but it is standard in most stationary concentrators.
Adjustable Flow Settings allow for personalized respiratory therapy treatments. Always consult your doctor before adjusting your unit’s settings to ensure exact dose oxygen delivery.
Battery Life and Power Options
The battery duration of an oxygen concentrator varies from machine to machine, ranging from 3 to 6 hours between charges.
Charging methods for portable units include AC cables, DC cables, or interchangeable batteries. When traveling, consider backup battery options.
Portability and Weight
Portable oxygen machines are typically lightweight. Depending on the design, they can range anywhere between 1 and 10 pounds.
Most units include travel-friendly features such as built-in handles, straps, carry bags, or wheeled cases.
Many airlines have approved various types of oxygen concentrators. Some devices may not be permitted due to their battery type. Always check with TSA guidelines when planning a trip.
Noise Level and Comfort
Many users are concerned about how loud their oxygen concentrator is. They want to continue living their own lives while being conscious of those around them. Fortunately, there are several quiet portable oxygen machines on the market. Vitality Medical offers units with decibel levels ranging from 38 to 43 dBA.
As time goes by and technology advances, newer models have greater vibration control. This makes the machine quieter and gives the user more options for surfaces on which to rest their concentrator during use.
Motors have also advanced and allow the units to function more effectively while reducing the risk of overheating.
Smart Features and Displays
Many oxygen units have digital displays that show flow rate, battery life, and alarms. These features make the device more user-friendly and facilitate troubleshooting.
Some units connect to an app on your cellphone via Bluetooth for easy monitoring.
Most oxygen devices alert you to tube obstructions, low battery, or any other maintenance needs. If you have any questions about what your unit is trying to tell you, user manuals often list troubleshooting tips and error code definitions.
Maintenance, Durability, and Warranty
Filters optimize the longevity of your oxygen concentrator by blocking large particles from entering the machine and causing damage. It is imperative to know how and when to replace your filter. Some machines have disposable filters, others have reusable filters, and a few don’t require filter maintenance at all.
When selecting a unit, research its durability. How does it fare against drops or environmental conditions? How conducive is the portable concentrator to travel?
Most portable oxygen concentrators include warranty plans ranging from 3 to 5 years. Our customer care team will help you obtain the service covered under your warranty. For assistance, call us at 1-800-397-5899.
Accessory Compatibility
Over the years, necessity has been the mother of innovation. Today, many portable oxygen concentrators are compatible with external batteries, carry bags, and specially designed carts.
In addition, most units have a universal fit for various types of cannulas and nasal interfaces.
The FFA has approved many types of oxygen units and travel accessories. This list is constantly evolving as technology in both air travel and supplemental oxygen advances.
Conclusion
Respiratory therapy is no longer limited to the home. Thanks to modern technology, there are several brands and types of portable oxygen concentrators available. When comparing portable oxygen options, consider what features will best fit your needs. Ask yourself:
- What oxygen flow modes does it have? How easy is it to adjust the settings?
- How long does the battery last? How does the unit charge?
- How heavy is it? Does it include a bag or straps for easy use on the go?
- How loud is it?
- What smart features does it have? How easy are the displays to read? Is it user-friendly?
- How long is the warranty? Is it durable? How much maintenance does it require?
- Is it compatible with any accessories?
Vitality Medical offers portable units from trusted oxygen concentrator suppliers. Ask your healthcare provider about other best practices for choosing oxygen units.
