What To Know Before Buying a Portable Oxygen Concentrator

Portable oxygen concentrators can greatly improve the quality of life for respiratory therapy patients with active lifestyles. Understanding how they work is an essential first step in finding the right machine for your needs.

Portable oxygen concentrators typically provide pulse-dose supplementary oxygen at a lower LPM rate than stationary concentrators. Battery life varies based on flow settings and usage.

The compact construction of these machines makes them easily portable. Each device has its own size, weight, and transport method. (ie. backpacks, rollers, or shoulder straps)

Most portable oxygen concentrators are designed for quiet operation with decibel levels between a whisper and the hum of a refrigerator.

Your doctor and the machine’s manufacturer will instruct you on proper maintenance practices. Taking care of your oxygen concentrator will optimize the life of the device and the quality of your respiratory therapy.

Different brands offer different warranties. Contact our customer service team with any questions or concerns you might have. We’ll help you obtain the service covered under your device’s manufacturer’s warranty.

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1. Introduction
2. Understanding Oxygen Concentrator Function
3. Oxygen Output and Delivery Settings
4. Battery Life and Power Options
5. Size, Weight, and Portability
6. Noise Level and User Comfort
7. Maintenance and Upkeep
8. Comparing Brands and Warranty Coverage
9. Conclusion

Portable oxygen concentrators allow individuals to take their oxygen therapy with them on the go. A mobile oxygen supply helps users retain their independence while continuing their usual daily activities.

Using such an essential device calls for extensive research. In this blog, we’ll review several important components to consider before buying your oxygen concentrator.

Oxygen concentrators filter nitrogen from the air around you, delivering oxygen in its purest form, up to 96% purity, and optimizing your respiratory therapy. Portable oxygen systems are designed for users with active lifestyles and lower oxygen prescriptions.

• Delivers oxygen as needed when the user inhales
• Typical for portable oxygen concentrators
• For individuals who have more stable breathing patterns

• Supplies an uninterrupted stream of oxygen
• Most common in home oxygen concentrators
• Designed for patients who require higher amounts of supplementary oxygen

The most important feature of a portable oxygen concentrator is its flow setting. This number indicates the bolus size and breath frequency.

Since everyone’s needs are different, your doctor will prescribe an oxygen flow rate setting that’s best for you. Adhering to your prescription with exactness is vitally important. Using the wrong settings can minimize the effectiveness of your oxygen therapy.

Portable oxygen battery life varies depending on settings. The higher the LPM rate or pulse-dose setting, the faster the battery life depletes. NEVER adjust your prescription out of fear of running out of power. Contact your doctor with any concerns.

Many devices include travel accessories like battery extenders or AC/DC power adapters for charging in the car.

Frequent travelers should pack a backup power supply in case of flight delays or other unexpected emergencies.

Always check the airline’s policies before going to the airport. Some battery types are restricted from commercial flights.

The compact and lightweight nature of portable oxygen concentrators makes them ideal for people with active lifestyles.

Carrying styles vary depending on the machine’s weight and the user’s personal preferences. Larger, heavier units are best suited for rolling carts, while lighter devices are easier to carry in backpacks or on shoulder straps. Portable oxygen concentrators often come with their own carrying cases. However, some brands also sell alternatives separately.

Many oxygen devices are FAA-approved for air travel if the passenger has medical clearance. Regulations change over time. Always check TSA guidelines when packing for flights.

Loud noises can be extremely distressing, especially in public settings where people are expected to be quiet. The noise level of your oxygen concentrator shouldn’t keep you from traveling on airplanes, eating at restaurants, or attending the theatre.

Through the years, scientists have developed technology for low-noise oxygen therapy. Brands like Inogen and GCE make portable oxygen concentrators with 38 to 39 dBA sound levels. This is about as quiet as a whisper. O2 Concepts and Respironic concentrators have noise levels around 40 to 44 dBA. This is equivalent to the hum of a refrigerator.

Other common features that improve oxygen device usability include:

• Touchscreen displays
• Adjustable straps
• Ergonomic handles

Routinely cleaning and maintaining your oxygen concentrator optimizes both the life of the machine and the quality of your respiratory therapy.

• Replace disposable external filters monthly or as often as directed by the manufacturer, as found in the product manual.
• Thoroughly wash and dry reusable external filters as often as recommended by their manufacturer.
• Ask a technician to replace internal air filters at intervals specified in the owner’s manual.

• Regularly charge your device.
• Notice any decline in battery performance.
• Reach out to a customer service representative or reference the manual to troubleshoot any inconsistencies.

• Store the machine in a dry area with little or no humidity.
• Keep out of reach of children.
• Avoid storing the unit in extreme temperatures.

• Handle the machine with care.
• When possible, avoid keeping the device in excessive heat or cold temperatures.
• Carry the oxygen concentrator in its included carrying case or backpack.

Vitality Medical offers a wide selection of replacement oxygen concentrator parts, filters, accessories, and manuals for many major models and brands.

Concentrator warranty coverage varies between oxygen concentrator brands. Always check the warranty terms before purchasing. Call our customer support team with any questions about service and replacement options.

Vitality Medical sells several reputable models, such as the Inogen Rove 6 , the Drive DeVilbiss iGo2 , and many other high-quality units.

When buying a portable oxygen concentrator, consider variables such as oxygen output, decibel levels, power, portability, and warranty.

Finding a reliable oxygen concentrator supplier is just as important as choosing the machine itself. Vitality Medical is here to provide high-quality oxygen concentrators and accessories from reputable brands. Contact our helpful customer service team for any questions you may have about warranties or ordering supplies.