Portable oxygen concentrators are helpful medical devices that can help people with certain disorders, like COPD, receive the oxygen they need to maintain their health. Portable oxygen concentrator maintenance is essential to ensuring your machine operates efficiently and delivers the oxygen you need.
Portable oxygen concentrators offer more freedom and all the same benefits as traditional oxygen concentrators. Unlike bulky, in-home stationary units, portable models can be taken on the go. Instead of using oxygen canisters, they extract the oxygen from the surrounding air and deliver the concentrated oxygen for you to breathe — which makes gardening, an afternoon of shopping, or going on vacation a lot easier. Regardless of what kind of O2 machine you have, regular portable oxygen concentrator maintenance is the best way to ensure it provides you with the health-enhancing oxygen you need.
Here are five essential portable oxygen concentrator maintenance tips to keep your machine running smoothly for years to come.
Clean the outside of your portable oxygen concentrator once a week
Dust, dirt, pet hair, and other small debris can affect how well your portable oxygen concentrator functions. Debris buildup near the sieve beds — the filters that separate oxygen from the air — can be especially problematic.
To prevent that from happening, wipe the outside of your machine with a dry or slightly damp cloth once a week. Depending on your device, you may be able to use a mild dish detergent for added disinfecting power, although experts generally advise against using harsh cleaners on most machines. Always check the user manual for approved cleaners to maintain optimal performance — and protect your warranty.
The good news is, that’s the most important step in portable oxygen concentrator maintenance.
Clean filters once a week
Another vital part of portable oxygen concentrator maintenance is cleaning the gross particle filter regularly and replacing it as needed. Before cleaning your filter for the first time, consult your owner’s manual.
To clean the filter, turn off your machine, remove the filter, and rinse under warm tap water until it is clean. You can also use a mild dish soap on most filters. In fact, some O2 concentrator machine brands, like O2 Concepts, recommend doing so for their Oxlife Independence model.
Let it dry completely before reinstalling. Many portable oxygen concentrator users keep a second filter on hand, allowing them to continue using the machine when cleaning filters.
Know when to wash or replace your nasal cannula
Clean your nasal cannula once a week in a solution of 1 part white vinegar to 10 parts water. Soak the nasal cannula in the solution for a few minutes, then rinse it thoroughly with clean water. Let it dry completely before using it again. Not only does this extend the life of your cannula, but it also disinfects it, which is especially important during cold and flu season. There’s no need to clean the tubing, but it should be replaced every two months.
The American Lung Association recommends replacing your nasal cannula every two to four weeks, as well as anytime you get sick to prevent recirculating germs.
Care for your battery properly
Batteries don’t require cleaning or special maintenance, but there are a few best practices that can extend their lifespan:
- Fully drain and then fully recharge your battery at least once every three months.
- If your machine uses more than one battery, rotate them periodically to ensure even power supply usage.
- Store batteries in a cool, dry, dark place. Make sure they are fully charged when you store them.
Batteries naturally degrade over time, holding less charge with repeated use. Most batteries can be charged 300 to 500 times before their ability to hold a charge starts to decline. If you notice your battery isn’t lasting as long after a year or two, it’s probably time to replace it.
Operate and store the machine in the right environment
You can operate your portable oxygen machine almost everywhere, including airplanes (if your machine is FAA-approved). However, there are a few things you will want to keep in mind when operating and storing your machine in the right environment.
Portable oxygen concentrators work best when they are used regularly. If you use your machine infrequently, make sure it runs for at least 10 hours a month to keep the sieve beds active.
If you store your machine between uses, keep it in a cool, dry area in its protective carrying case. Always store batteries with a full charge, and wipe off any dust that accumulates every few weeks.
Whenever possible, place your portable oxygen concentrator on hard surfaces, like wood, concrete, or ceramic. If you’re using your machine on carpet, make sure the relative humidity in the air is at least 35%. This helps prevent static discharge, which can be dangerous because oxygen is an accelerant that can cause sparks to burn hotter and faster. If your home has carpet, consider placing a hard mat, like those used under desk chairs, beneath the machine to improve airflow and stability.
Portable O2 machines run more efficiently and have a longer lifespan when operated in a clean environment. If your home has a lot of pet hair, dander, dust, or cigarette smoke, consider using an air filtration system in your home.
Breathe easier with regular portable oxygen concentrator maintenance
Making sure your O2 machine is properly cleaned and maintained takes time and effort, but it’s well worth it. Regular portable oxygen concentrator maintenance prevents potential repairs, increases the lifespan of your batteries, and ensures you receive the oxygen you need when you’re on the go.
