Concentrators

> Cleaning and changing the air inlet filter

Oxygen concentrators take oxygen from the air for patients to breathe. The concentrator provides a continuous supply of oxygen and is designed for use at home. Patients should find oxygen concentrators convenient and easy to use.

The concentrator flow rate will be set to the prescribed flow rate by the Air Products technician. Patients should not make any further adjustments to the flow rate without advice from a clinician.

Types of oxygen concentrator

There are three main types of oxygen concentrators. On average, concentrators weigh around 25kg and are 50-70cm high and make a slight humming noise, like a fridge, when switched on.
Find out more about the three concentrators.

Maintaining the concentrator

The concentrator will be serviced by an Air Products technician every six months. In the meantime, patients need to regularly perform some simple maintenance

Cleaning and changing the air inlet filter

Cleaning the air filter is the most important maintenance activity on the oxygen concentrator. It should be done at least once a week.

Remove the filter from the cabinet and replace with the spare filter
Rinse and wash the filter in warm water. A mild detergent may be used if rinsed thoroughly.
Squeeze out the excess water and allow the concentrator filter to air dry. The filter should be completely dry before using it again. Excess moisture may impair the proper operation of the concentrator.

Cleaning the concentrator

The exterior case of the oxygen concentrator should be cleaned regularly, using a damp cloth to wipe it down. If medical disinfectants are used, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Caution:
The concentrator should be switched off and the electrical plug removed from the wall socket before any maintenance or cleaning.

Electricity refunds

Air Products will reimburse the running cost of patients’ oxygen concentrator machine.
Find out more about electricity refunds.

Concentrator safety instructions

Patients should follow these simple safety guidelines:

Do not adjust the oxygen flow rate on your concentrator without consulting your doctor
Do not smoke and do not allow others to smoke or have naked flames near you or the concentrator when it is switched on
Your concentrator purifies air from the surroundings. If you use the concentrator near heaters or fires, fumes may not be completely removed
Keep your concentrator away from heat sources or open flames. Do not use your concentrator in the presence of a flammable anaesthetic mixed with air or oxygen or nitrous oxide
Recommended distances from your concentrator are: open fires 3 metres; closed fires (e.g. heating sources or stoves) 1.5 metres
Always switch off your concentrator when not in use
Do not remove the covers of the concentrator, you may get an electric shock
Never use oil or grease on the concentrator or its components. This can greatly increase the fire risk
Do not place your cannula or mask on upholstery or bedding as oxygen may be absorbed increasing the risk of fire
Make sure the concentrator is not obstructed or covered by items which may restrict ventilation (like blankets, foam, curtains etc). Do not place the concentrator in a small closed space (such as a cupboard). Always leave a gap of 15cm around the concentrator.
Do not use a petroleum-based gel like Vaseline to reduce friction caused by masks or cannula. Use only water-based gels like KY Jelly.
Keep your back-up cylinder supply handy so it is available for immediate use
Do not use the oxygen concentrator if either the plug or power cord is damaged
Do not let children or untrained persons tamper with your concentrator
Always place your concentrator at a distance where the built-in alarm on the device can be heard
In the event of an equipment alarm or if you are experiencing discomfort please contact the Homecare Helpline on 0800 373580.

Download

Information about different types of concentrators
[PDF, 300 KB]
> types of concentrators

Information about electricity refund facts [PDF, 210 KB]
> electricity refund leaflet