Oxygen Concentrator – Everything You Need to Know

Oxygen Concentrator – What Is It Used For and How to Choose the Right One?

Oxygen Concentrator

An oxygen concentrator is a medical device that takes in ambient air, purifies it, and delivers air with an increased oxygen concentration—typically between 90% and 96%. The oxygen is separated using the PSA (Pressure Swing Adsorption) process.It is used in both home and hospital oxygen therapy for patients with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions, as well as during recovery.

How to Choose the Right Oxygen Concentrator and Determine the Proper Flow Rate?

Choosing an oxygen concentrator should always be based on the individual needs of the patient – both in terms of oxygen flow rate (L/min) and mode of delivery (continuous or pulse). Below, we outline what to consider when purchasing or renting a device.

1. Consult Your Doctor

Medical guidance is essential. A healthcare professional will determine:

• Whether oxygen therapy is needed

• How many liters of oxygen per minute (L/min) are required

• How many hours per day the therapy should be applied

• Whether continuous, nighttime, or occasional therapy is needed

2. Determine the Required Oxygen Flow Rate

Most common flow ranges:

• 1–2 L/min – mild hypoxemia, maintenance therapy, common in COPD

• 3–5 L/min – moderate hypoxemia

• 6–10 L/min – high-flow oxygen therapy, used in more severe conditions, cluster headaches, COVID-19, or acute dyspnea episodes

Note: Not all concentrators offer the same performance. Standard models provide up to 5 L/min. If a higher flow rate is required, choose a high-flow unit – available in our offer.

2.1.  If You Can't Consult a Doctor

Use a fingertip pulse oximeter (available at most pharmacies) to monitor oxygen saturation (SpO₂). Based on the reading, follow the recommendations below:

➤ Saturation 84%–89%

• Set the concentrator flow to 1.5 L/min

• Wear a nasal cannula and breathe through the nose for 15–20 minutes

• If saturation rises above 91%, turn off the concentrator and keep monitoring

• If saturation drops again, restart the device

• If saturation stays below 91%, increase flow by 0.5 L/min and observe

➤ Saturation 78%–83%

• Set the flow to 3–4 L/min

• Breathe through the nasal cannula for 15–20 minutes

• If saturation exceeds 91%, turn off the concentrator and monitor

• If levels drop again, restart the unit

• If there’s no improvement, increase flow by 1.0 L/min and continue monitoring

❗ Saturation below 78%
Immediate hospitalization is necessary. Call emergency services – 112.

IMPORTANT:

The above steps should only be taken if a doctor is unavailable. This trial-and-error method should be used for no longer than 2–3 days. Prolonged use of oxygen therapy without medical supervision may harm your health.

TIP:

When using a nasal cannula, always inhale through the nose. Mouth breathing significantly reduces the effectiveness of oxygen therapy. If the person cannot breathe through their nose, a mask should be used instead – and the flow rate should be increased by approximately +1 L/min compared to nasal cannula use.

DISCLAIMER:
The saturation ranges and suggested oxygen flow levels listed above are based on practical experience with home oxygen therapy users. These recommendations do not constitute medical advice and do not replace professional medical consultation. Always consult a doctor in case of any health concerns.

3. Pay Attention to the Oxygen Delivery Mode

• Continuous flow – oxygen is delivered non-stop, regardless of the patient’s breathing. Recommended for more serious conditions.

• Pulse flow (conserving mode) – oxygen is delivered only during inhalation. Found mainly in portable concentrators.

4. Choose the Right Type of Concentrator

• Stationary oxygen concentrator – larger, more powerful, designed for home use. Typically offers 1–5 L/min, some models up to 10 L/min.

• Portable oxygen concentrator – lightweight, battery-powered. Designed for use outside the home. Often limited in flow (e.g., 1–5 settings*) and operates in pulse mode.

5. If You’re Unsure – Contact a Specialist

If you’re not sure which model to choose – get in touch with us. We’ll help you select the right oxygen concentrator for your health needs and lifestyle.

We offer both sales and rentals, including high-flow models up to 10 L/min.

*Note: “Flow setting” is not the same as “L/min”. In portable oxygen concentrators with pulse mode, you set the pulse level, which corresponds to the amount of oxygen delivered per breath in milliliters, not a direct liters-per-minute value.

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LIDAR PPUH
Distribution, service, rental, maintenance, and leasing of oxygen concentrators and medical equipment