Welcome to OXY’s Oxygen Concentrator Knowledge Center.

On this page, you’ll find practical and easy-to-understand information about oxygen concentrators, oxygen therapy, portable oxygen systems, maintenance, safety, and traveling with oxygen.

An oxygen concentrator extracts oxygen from the ambient air and delivers it to the user via a tube and, in most cases, a nasal cannula.

The type of oxygen therapy and the appropriate device depend on the medical condition and the prescribed oxygen requirement.

Never change a prescribed oxygen setting on your own. Always discuss any changes with your doctor, respiratory nurse, or oxygen supplier.

What is an oxygen concentrator?

An oxygen concentrator is an electrical device that concentrates oxygen from the ambient air.

Unlike an oxygen cylinder, a concentrator does not need to be filled with oxygen in the same way. The device uses the air in the environment and concentrates the oxygen from it.

There are different types of oxygen concentrators:

• stationary oxygen concentrators;

• portable oxygen concentrators;

• continuous-flow devices;

• pulse-flow devices;

• models that combine different types of oxygen delivery.

How does an oxygen concentrator work?

A concentrator draws in air from the surrounding environment.

Through a technical process, primarily nitrogen and other components are removed from the air, leaving behind an oxygen-rich gas.

This gas is then delivered to the user via the oxygen tubing.

The process can be summarized as follows:

Ambient air → concentrator → oxygen-rich air → tube → nasal cannula → user

Stationary or portable oxygen concentrator?

Stationary oxygen concentrator

A stationary concentrator is intended for use at a fixed location, such as at home.

These devices are generally larger and are connected directly to the electrical outlet.

They are a good option when long-term oxygen use at a single location is required.

Portable oxygen concentrator

A portable oxygen concentrator is designed to be easier to carry.

Depending on the model, the device can be powered by a battery or the electrical outlet.

Portable models are particularly useful for people who want to remain active outside the home.

 

 

Pulse flow and continuous flow

There are different ways to administer oxygen.

Continuous flow

With continuous flow, oxygen is delivered continuously for the set period.

Pulse flow

With pulse flow, oxygen is delivered when the device detects a breath.

Not every user is suitable for pulse flow. This must be tailored to the prescribed oxygen therapy.

That’s why it’s important to consider not only weight and price when comparing oxygen concentrators, but especially the way the device delivers oxygen.

Which oxygen concentrator do I need?

There is no single concentrator that is the best choice for everyone.

When choosing a device, the following factors, among others, may be important:

• prescribed oxygen flow rate;

• pulse or continuous flow;

• use at home or on the go;

• weight;

• battery life;

• noise level;

• portability;

• maintenance;

• availability of accessories;

• travel and air travel;

• service and technical support.

The medical suitability of a device must be discussed with your doctor or oxygen supplier.

Home Oxygen Concentrator

A stationary oxygen concentrator can be used when long-term oxygen therapy is needed at home.

When setting up the device, it is important to leave sufficient space around it and to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Also, ensure adequate ventilation and keep the device away from heat sources and open flames.

Safety When Using Oxygen

Oxygen supports combustion.

Therefore, you must be especially careful with:

• smoking;

• open flames;

• candles;

• gas stoves;

• sparks;

• heat sources;

• flammable materials.

Never smoke near oxygen equipment.

In addition, use only accessories and maintenance products that are suitable for the specific device.

Maintenance of an oxygen concentrator

Proper maintenance helps ensure that an oxygen concentrator functions reliably.

Depending on the model, the following parts, for example, may require attention:

• air intake filter;

• bacterial filter;

• oxygen tubing;

• nasal cannula;

• humidifier bottle;

• battery;

• sieve beds on certain concentrators.

Always follow the manufacturer’s maintenance instructions.

When should a filter be replaced?

That varies by model.

The manufacturer specifies how often a filter should be cleaned or replaced.

Do not use a one-size-fits-all maintenance schedule for all concentrators.

Therefore, always consult the manual for the specific device.

Taking an oxygen concentrator on vacation

A portable concentrator can be a practical solution for some users when they need oxygen while traveling.

Before you leave, check:

1. whether the device is suitable for your prescribed therapy;

2. whether you have enough batteries;

3. whether you have the correct charger;

4. whether you need a backup plan;

5. whether your destination has any additional requirements;

6. whether your airline accepts the device in question.

Additional rules apply to air travel.

Always check these with the airline in advance.

Can I fly with an oxygen concentrator?

That depends on the model.

A device that is technically portable is not automatically permitted on board every aircraft.

Therefore, always check:

• the manufacturer’s current documentation;

• the airline’s requirements;

• any required forms;

• battery requirements;

• current travel conditions.

Buying an Oxygen Concentrator

If you’re looking to buy an oxygen concentrator, it’s important to first determine which type of device is right for your situation.

At OXY, you’ll find both stationary and portable oxygen concentrators.

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What does an oxygen concentrator do?

An oxygen concentrator draws in ambient air and concentrates the oxygen from it, which is then administered to the user.

What is the difference between an oxygen concentrator and an oxygen cylinder?

A concentrator uses ambient air and requires electricity. An oxygen cylinder contains pre-compressed oxygen.

What is a portable oxygen concentrator?

A portable oxygen concentrator is designed to enable oxygen therapy outside the home, depending on the prescribed therapy and the device.

What is pulse flow?

Pulse flow means that the device delivers oxygen in a dose that is synchronized with a detected breath.

What is continuous flow?

With continuous flow, oxygen is delivered continuously at the set flow rate.

Can anyone use pulse flow?

No. The suitability of pulse flow depends on the individual’s oxygen therapy and breathing pattern. Discuss this with your doctor or oxygen supplier.

Can I increase the oxygen setting myself?

No. Do not change a prescribed oxygen setting on your own. Always consult your doctor or oxygen supplier about this.

How long does a battery last?

Battery life varies depending on the model, battery, settings, and usage conditions.

How do I maintain my oxygen concentrator?

Always follow the manufacturer’s maintenance instructions. Depending on the model, items such as filters, tubing, and batteries may require maintenance or replacement.

About OXY BV

OXY specializes in oxygen concentrators and accessories for oxygen therapy.

We supply various types of oxygen concentrators and help customers compare models and accessories.

Our goal is to provide clear technical and practical information so that users can better understand the various options available.

Do you have questions about a specific device?

Please contact us for product information and technical support.

Disclaimer

The information on this page is intended as general product and background information and is not a substitute for medical advice.

The decision to use oxygen therapy, the amount of oxygen, and the settings of an oxygen device must be determined by a licensed physician or other treating healthcare provider.