After choosing a portable concentrator or a stationary concentrator, there are some safety and maintenance tips you should pay attention to. Here are some of the most important considerations you need to keep in mind. Of course, this is just a reference, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact us!

Be Used As

1. Replace the filter every 2 to 3 months
Many concentrators come with what is called a " filter" which needs to be replaced every 2 to 3 months on average. After 2 to 3 months, the filter will start to wear out and not work properly. The coarse particle filter is an important feature in an oxygen concentrator; it traps dirt, dust, and other particles so that you don't breathe in unclean oxygen. Keeping the filter clean also helps ensure that these particles don't start to clog the inner workings of the concentrator.

2. Replace the cannula at least once a month
You should clean the cannula at least once a week, but over time, the cannula will begin to degrade. Cannulas that are used for more than 1 month may be at risk of breaking, and small holes and cracks that form in the rubber may begin to breed bacteria, resulting in unclean oxygen delivery and possible hazards.

3. Run your POC at least 4 hours per month
Even if you don't need to use the device so often, or you only use it when traveling, you should run your portable oxygen concentrator for at least 2 hours per month. An oxygen concentrator is similar to a home appliance, and leaving it unused can actually damage it. Like most electronic devices with rechargeable batteries, it can actually extend their life to run them continuously rather than letting them sit unused. If you typically just use a stationary concentrator at home, use a portable device for at least 2 hours a day once a month.

4. Fully discharge the batteries at least once a month
Using the batteries until they are drained will actually extend the life of the rechargeable batteries in your portable oxygen concentrator, whether it is internal or external. Charge the batteries fully and then let them drain completely. You shouldn’t do this all the time, but doing this once a month is enough to keep your batteries in top condition for as long as possible.

5. Treat your portable oxygen concentrator like a home appliance
The batteries of home appliances and their portability make them very similar to portable oxygen concentrators. Try to keep the devices clean so that dirt or dust doesn’t get into the machine and cause problems. You must keep them dry and free of any moisture buildup. If possible, keep the devices in a protective case.

6. If you have any questions please call us!
You can call us at +86 18902540866 to speak with one of our service personnel. They will be happy to answer any questions you may have about oxygen concentrators. You can also click here to get a free oxygen consultation!

Don’ts

1. Don’t leave your portable oxygen concentrator in a hot car
Whether it’s in use or not, you should never allow your portable oxygen concentrator to overheat, or else the internal and external parts could be seriously damaged. Besides your car, you should also make sure you store your concentrator somewhere it won’t overheat. The manual for your concentrator will specify the maximum storage temperature as well as the maximum operating temperature.

2. Don’t let your oxygen concentrator get wet
If you’re outside and it’s raining, your portable oxygen concentrator’s protective carrying case will protect it from raindrops while you seek shelter. Just like any electronic gadget, it doesn’t mix well with any type of moisture, so it should be avoided at all costs.

3. Don’t run your concentrator when not in use (this doesn’t apply to continuous flow)
Your pulsed oxygen concentrator releases a “bolus” or stream of oxygen based on your breathing rate. It actively seeks out and senses your breaths through the air pressure as you inhale, and then it knows it’s time to release a bolus of oxygen. This means the concentrator’s sensor is very sensitive. If you’re not breathing and telling it when to release oxygen, the concentrator’s battery will drain quickly.

4. Don't smoke around oxygen concentrators
This can be very dangerous and in more serious cases even fatal. You should never smoke while using an oxygen concentrator and should always keep a distance from smokers or tell them to stay away from the oxygen produced by the oxygen concentrator. Pure oxygen will give energy to the spark, which will quickly turn into a flame. If small pieces of hot ash from cigarettes fall on a surface and come into contact with the oxygen in the concentrator or even get out of the cannula, it can quickly get out of control.

5. Don't let your questions go unanswered
One thing you should never do is sit back and wonder what you should do in any situation involving an oxygen concentrator. An oxygen concentrator is one of the most important medical devices you own and you should take all the proper precautions to care for and maintain it. You can call our service department at +86 18902540866 and ask any questions you may have!