What is an Oxygen Concentrator?
The Oxygen Concentrator is an electrically operated device which takes room air and separates the oxygen from the other gases and delivers more “concentrated” oxygen to you.
Oxygen concentrators are available in many different sizes and models, but they all have the same basic parts: a power switch to turn the unit on and off, a liter flow knob to regulate the liter flow to that prescribed by your physician, and an alarm to alert you to a power interruption or equipment failure so you can change to your back-up tank.
Have a HomeFill System? Check out our resources here.
Operation
Plug the concentrator’s electrical cord directly in to an outlet, not controlled by a wall switch. Keep back and sides of the concentrator at least 6 inches from drapes and 3 inches from wall.
- Attach the nipple adapter (or “Christmas Tree”) to the concentrator outlet port and attach up to 50 feet of tubing to the adapter.
- Turn the concentrator switch to “ON”. It is normal for the unit to sound an alarm for a few seconds both as an “alarm test” and to tell you that the unit has not reached its correct operating pressure.
- Adjust the oxygen flow by turning the liter control knob until the flow rate is set according to your doctor’s order.
- Next, fit the nasal cannula on your face, making sure the prongs face upward and curve into your nostrils.
Maintenance
Some components of the Oxygen Concentrator need routine cleaning and replacement.
- Intake filter should be cleaned weekly by washing in soapy water, rinse thoroughly, dry with a clean towel and re-attach filter to machine.
- Nasal Cannula should be replaced every 2 weeks
- Humidifier bottle (if ordered) should be changed every 2 weeks; jar should be washed daily and refilled with distilled water only.
- Extension tubing should be no longer than 50 feet and replaced every 2 months.
Alarms
Your concentrator has alarms which will tell you if the machine is not functioning properly. Our Service Technician or Clinician will explain the alarms to you. If you hear or see one of the alarms and you are not getting the oxygen supply:
- Switch to your back up system, and turn off your unit.
- Troubleshoot with the below steps.
- If simple troubleshooting tips below fail to work, call Community Surgical Supply for further direction.
Simple Troubleshooting:
- Check that tubing is securely attached to the oxygen outlet and is not crimped or pinched.
- Filter is clean, and the intake area not obstructed by heavy furniture, chairs, drapes, etc.
Warning: Do not attempt to open the device for maintenance or repair. There are no user serviceable parts.
About Cylinders
With this system, oxygen gas is pressurized to a high level and stored in steel or aluminum cylinders. The pressure is measured in pounds per square inch (PSI).
A full cylinder may have between 1800-2200 psi when first turned on. The higher the pressure, the greater the cylinder is full. The pressure gauge will show pressure gradually dropping as the oxygen is used.
Oxygen cylinders are available in various sizes. Depending upon the size of the cylinder and the amount of oxygen you use, the oxygen will last for different periods of time. The weight of these portable cylinders ranges from 2 – 8 pounds and width and height are approximately 3 inches wide up to 25 inches tall.
Four different sizes of smaller cylinders are commonly available: the C cylinder (Purple), D cylinder (Black), the E cylinder (Yellow) and the M6 cylinder (Red). The M6, C and D cylinders are smaller. They are used with a carrying case with a shoulder strap. The E cylinder is a bit larger and is often used with a wheeled cart. They are also color banded for identification.
More information about Cylinder durations available here.
Operating the Regulator
How to Attach Regulator to Oxygen Cylinder
- Remove the seal (white tape) from the post valve of the full cylinder.
- Inspect regulator, insuring that a washer is in place over the largest peg located inside the yoke
of the regulator. (Extra washers are supplied with your initial delivery) - Attach the regulator to the cylinder by slipping the regulator yoke down over the post valve
and aligning the 3 pegs inside the yoke with the 3 holes in the post valve. - Tighten the “T” bolt handle firmly. If the “T” bolt isn’t secure of if the washer is faulty or missing there will be a loud hissing sound when the valve is turned on as the oxygen escapes. Turn the cylinder main valve off (right or clockwise) and check for washer and regulator position, re-align and re-tighten.
Oxygen Conserving Regulator (OCR)
(Pulse Dose)
Your doctor may have prescribed an Oxygen Conserving Regulator for your gas cylinders for portability and ambulation. The “OCR” responds to each individual’s breathing pattern. Follow the same general safety rules and use as the standard Oxygen Regulator.
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