Normal air is composed of 80% nitrogen and 20% oxygen. For people with normal oxygen levels in the blood, this is not a problem. However, some people with low levels have difficulty converting normal air into the oxygen needed by the body. The oxygen concentrator purifies conventional air to 90-95% oxygen. To do this, the concentrator uses a compressor to move the air to the sieve bed filter to remove nitrogen. The purified oxygen is then delivered into the nostril through the hose inserted into the nostril. Nitrogen is then released back into the air.

There are two different types of oxygen concentrators: household and portable. These machines are different in size, weight, flow, power and capacity.

How does a home oxygen concentrator work?

The home oxygen concentrator is powered by a wall outlet and is intended for fixed therapy. All these machines are in continuous flow mode and provide a constant oxygen rate, whether inhaled or exhaled. According to your prescription, a home oxygen concentrator can provide 1-10 liters of oxygen per minute. Therefore, these machines are heavier. They generally weigh between 40-60 pounds and are usually mounted on wheels, making it easy to move from one room to another.

When buying, it is important to compare several factors, including flow rate, weight, noise, power usage, and altitude.

Continuous flow portable oxygen concentrator

Continuous flow oxygen concentrators provide oxygen at a constant rate without paying attention to inhalation or exhalation. This mode also allows oxygen to be connected to the PAP machine. However, because oxygen is constant, the device requires more battery power. These machines are usually larger and can provide higher oxygen demand. Note: Not all portable oxygen concentrators have continuous flow mode.

How much is a portable oxygen concentrator?

Portable oxygen concentrators are typically light and compact. This allows greater personal freedom and ability to run errands, travel, or simply take oxygen with you wherever you go. Oxygen concentrators are currently available in portable oxygen concentrators from stores ranging from $1825 to $3425.

Some factors to consider before buying

• Does my prescription specify that I need a pulsed dose or continuous blood flow?
• If my prescription shows a pulse dose, what is the pulse setting range?
• How easy is this device to carry?
• What is the service life of the battery?
• Can my oxygen concentrator be used in flight?

What is the price of a household oxygen concentrator?

If you are unlikely to travel with your oxygen concentrator or need a continuous flow of oxygen, then a home oxygen concentrator may be the best option. Current prices range from oxygen concentration supply stores from $749 to $1545

Some things to consider before buying a home oxygen concentrator

• Does my prescription show that I need a pulsed dose or continuous blood flow?
• If continuous streaming, does the machine support my settings?
• Are there multiple household concentrators? Is it convenient to move to?
• How noisy is the family unit? Can I use it at night?
• Does this unit work at high altitude? This is an important factor for users living in high altitude areas of the country.