Your oxygen concentrator (plug in machine) takes oxygen from the air for you to breathe. The concentrator provides a continuous supply of oxygen and is designed for use at home. You should find your oxygen concentrator convenient and easy to use.
The concentrator flow rate will be set to the prescribed flow rate by your Air Products technician as directed by your doctor. Any further adjustments to the flow rate should only be undertaken on the recommendation of your doctor.
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 [PDF 250 KB]
Maintaining your concentrator
Your concentrator will be serviced by your Air Products technician every six months. In the meantime, you need to regularly perform some simple maintenance on your concentrator:
Cleaning and changing the air inlet filter
Cleaning the air filter is the most important maintenance activity on your 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
You should clean the exterior case of the oxygen concentrator regularly, using a damp cloth to wipe it down. If medical disinfectants are used, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Caution:
Switch the concentrator off and remove the electrical plug from the wall socket before any maintenance or cleaning.
Electricity refunds
Air Products will reimburse the running cost of your oxygen concentrator machine.
> Find out more about electricity refunds
Concentrator safety instructions
Before using your concentrator please read and 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 refer to the troubleshooting guide. If you are unable to resolve the problem, switch immediately to your back-up supply and contact Air Products.
Never increase or decrease the flow rate on your oxygen cylinder without first consulting your doctor or respiratory specialist. 
