Choosing the right oxygen generator

Oxygen generators are medical devices for people with respiratory failure (hypoxemia). The principle of operation is the concentration of oxygen in the air by removing nitrogen. In a medical setting, oxygen therapy is used to improve and stabilize the oxygen saturation of the blood.

The oxygen generator consists of:

A concentrator that includes the device itself, i.e. a housing with a compressor, filter, tank, etc. Consumables such as oxygen tubing, adult/pediatric oxygen cannulas, and oxygen masks

What criteria should I consider when choosing an oxygen generator?

There are five important criteria to consider when purchasing an oxygen generator: oxygen concentration, flow rate, portability, noise level, and power.

Oxygen concentration: This should be between 87% and 99%. Flow rate: An oxygen flow rate of 2 L/min is usually sufficient for home oxygen concentrators. However, some pathologies require higher flow rates and concentrators of up to 10 l/min can be found.

Portability: There are stationary oxygen generators and portable oxygen generators. For example, portable models that can be easily moved from one department to another are often preferred. However, stationary models usually have larger tanks.

Noise level: The noise level of an oxygen generator is usually between 31 dB and 60 dB, which corresponds to a quiet conversation or a normal voice in a quiet environment. Some brands produce quieter models.

Power type: Oxygen generators are usually mains connected for continuous use. This type of device does not consume much power. Other models are battery-operated.

Is it worth buying an oxygen generator?

Oxygen generators have several advantages over liquid oxygen cylinders. Oxygen is ubiquitous, easier to install, and less expensive.

Source: The source of the oxygen generator is ambient air which can be used anywhere. This allows you to produce the oxygen you want anytime, anywhere. This is a clear advantage over stationary and quick-disconnect liquid oxygen cylinders and requires regular refilling or replacement to ensure patient recovery. With home oxygen therapy using oxygen tanks, patients can live with the fear of being depleted without being refilled in time. With an oxygen generator, you can be sure that your oxygen will not run out.

Setup, Portability, Weight: Oxygen generators do not require a special setup and can be easily moved by choosing the portable model. The patient can lift a portable oxygen bottle (cart) while walking in the same way, but his autonomy is limited. Therefore, some patients prefer to spend less time sitting at home or outdoors while using oxygen cylinders. Oxygen generators are lighter (2-3 kg) than oxygen cylinders which weigh 4 kg or more depending on the fill level.

Low power consumption: Oxygen generators consume less electricity. Some models can also run on batteries, but due to their autonomy and battery size, these devices can be cumbersome to transport.

Cost: Another important advantage of oxygen generators is the much lower cost than oxygen cylinders. Oxygen generators only deliver oxygen when the patient is in the inspiratory phase, while oxygen cylinders deliver oxygen in a continuous flow (inspiration and expiration phases), making them less effective.

No significant training required: Oxygen generators are designed to be used by caregivers and users who do not require special training to operate.