A Guide to Oxygen Concentrator Liter Flows

Summary of Oxygen Concentrator Liter Flows

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The oxygen provided by home and portable concentrators can be dispensed in one of two ways, commonly referred to as either Continuous Flow or Pulse Flow delivery. Both of these oxygen delivery methods provide medical-grade oxygen directly to the user; however, the dosage is measured differently for each method of oxygen flow. Below we will contrast the two oxygen delivery methods and highlight the devices that feature them, this will help you and your physician determine what type of oxygen delivery is best suited for your lifestyle and oxygen requirements.

Continuous flow oxygen flows without interruption from the cannula and only stops when the concentrator is turned off. These continuous flow concentrators will deliver the same amount of oxygen through the cannula regardless of the patients breathing patterns. This type of oxygen delivery allows the flow rate to be measured at a constant volume of LPM (liters per minute).

Pulse dose oxygen concentrators are engineered to dispense oxygen when the machine senses inhalation. A “pulse” dose of oxygen, referred to as a “bolus”, is triggered and released when a patient inhales through a cannula. Pulse dose oxygen machines have “settings” that indicate how much oxygen is dispensed each minute. The amount (milliliters) of oxygen received by the patient (in a minute) will vary with the manufacturer, the setting, and the patient’s breathing (inhalation) rate. The size of the bolus of oxygen dispensed increases when the settings are increased.

It should be noted that while the manufacturers designed a setting of 2 on a pulse dose machine to approximate 2 LPM on a continuous flow machine, these are NOT the same. We recommend all patients considering a pulse dose machine both discuss the pros and cons with their doctor AND test the unit for efficacy to their specific needs.

Each model of portable oxygen concentrator has a “maximum oxygen output” which defines the maximum amount of oxygen a given machine can deliver (regardless of setting or breath rate).   Similar to a car’s horsepower, this is a good measure of a machine’s “capacity” to provide medical-grade oxygen. The maximum oxygen output for each machine is listed in Exhibit 1 below.

Portable Oxygen Concentrator

Setting Range

Oxygen at
Setting of 1

Max Setting

Oxygen at
Max Setting

Inogen One G4

1 to 3

210 ml/min

3

630 ml/min

ResMed Mobi

1 to 4

196 ml/min

4

680 ml/min

Respironics SimplyGo Mini

1 to 5

220 ml/min

5

1000 ml/min

Caire Freestyle Comfort

1 to 5

210 ml/min

5

1050 ml/min

Inogen One G3

1 to 5

210 ml/min

5

1050 ml/min

Inogen One G5

1 to 6

210 ml/min

6

1260 ml/min

Respironics SimplyGo

1 to 6

240 ml/min

6

1440 ml/min

Caire SeQual Eclipse 5

1 to 9

192 ml/min

9

2304 ml/min

Exhibit 1: Portable oxygen concentrators (POC) and their oxygen output in pulse dose settings and ml/min.
Note: The table is for educational purposes only. Oxygen output in pulse dose settings is not directly comparable to continuous liter flow.

Pulse dose delivery was originally designed to allow for smaller machines and longer battery life.  As such, many smaller portable models only offer pulse dose settings, while some larger models feature dual-mode and offer both continuous flow and pulse delivery.


Your Oxygen Prescription

If you require oxygen therapy, your doctor will prescribe you a given oxygen flow rate such as 2 liters per minute. An oxygen flow rate of 2 LPM means the patient will have 2 liters of oxygen flowing into their nostrils over a period of 1 minute. Oxygen prescriptions generally run from 1 liter per minute to 10 liters per minute with 70% of those patients being prescribed 2 liters or less.

It is important to consult with your physician regarding your specific oxygen requirements, both at rest and exertion. Determining the correct therapeutic dose for both daytime and nighttime use will allow our Oxygen Specialists to assist you in selecting the right equipment when renting or purchasing your own concentrator. We recommend patients discuss with their doctors their ability to use a pulse dose versus a continuous flow machine and the recommended settings on each machine.

If you are upgrading to a newer model of a concentrator, then please check with your physician whether your oxygen requirements have changed. We highly suggest purchasing an oxygen concentrator that can deliver oxygen higher than prescribed to accommodate the changing needs.

Below is a summary of various home and portable machines that feature one or both of the delivery methods available.


Portable Oxygen Concentrator Pulse Settings

Pulse Flow Oxygen Concentrator Settings

Exhibit 2:   Most Popular Portable Oxygen Concentrators in 2020 and their Highest Pulse Dose Setting
Note: Apple is shown in the image to show relative size.

Inogen G4

  • Currently the smallest, lightest, and most portable unit available
  • Settings: 1 to 3
  • Battery Life: Up to 2 hr 40 min (with single battery)
  • Weight: 8 lbs (with single battery)
  • Dimensions: 2.68 x 7.2 x 5.91 (W x H x D in inches, with single battery)
  • Maximum oxygen output: 630 ml/min on pulse dose
  • Best for: Active lifestyles and mobility
  • Click here for more information on Inogen One G4

ResMed Mobi

  • Currently has the best battery life
  • Settings: 1 to 4
  • Battery life: Up to 6 hr (setting of 2, with internal battery)
  • Weight: 5.5 lbs (with battery)
  • Dimensions: 9.6 x 7.95 x 4.49 (W x H x D in inches)
  • Maximum oxygen output: 680 ml/min
  • Best for: Long trips and no hassle of switching batteries
  • Click here for more information on ResMed Mobi

Inogen One G3

  • Currently the most widely used portable oxygen concentrator
  • Settings: 1 to 5
  • Battery life: Up to 4 hr 40 min (with single battery)
  • Weight: 4.8 lbs (with single battery)
  • Dimensions: 3 x 8.25 x 8.75 (W x H x D in inches, with single battery)
  • Maximum oxygen output: 1050 ml/min
  • Best for: Active lifestyle
  • Click here for more information on Inogen One G3

Respironics SimplyGo Mini

  • Currently has the best user interface and display
  • Settings: 1 to 5
  • Battery life: Up to 4 hr 30 min (setting of 2, with standard battery)
  • Weight: 5 lbs (with standard battery)
  • Dimensions: 3 x 9.4 x 3.6 (W x H x D in inches, with standard battery)
  • Maximum oxygen output: 1000 ml/min
  • Best for: Daily chores and family visits
  • Click here for more information on SimplyGo Mini

Caire Freestyle Comfort

  • Currently has the best ergonomics
  • Settings: 1 to 5
  • Battery life: Up to 4 hr (setting of 2, with single battery)
  • Weight: 5 lbs (with single battery)
  • Dimensions: 7.3 x 10 x 3.1 (W x H x D in inches, with single battery)
  • Maximum oxygen output: 1050 ml/min
  • Best for: Carrying on your shoulders
  • Click here for more information on Freestyle Comfort

Inogen One G5

  • The latest device from Inogen
  • Settings: 1 to 6
  • Battery life: Up to 6.5 hr (with single battery)
  • Weight: 4.8 lbs (with single battery)
  • Dimensions: 3.26 x 8.15 x 7.19 (W x H x D in inches, with single battery)
  • Maximum oxygen output: 1260 ml/min
  • Best for: Active lifestyle and travel
  • Click here for more information on Inogen One G5

Respironics SimplyGo

  • Most versatile unit available
  • Settings: 1 to 6 (Continuous flow also available)
  • Battery life: Up to 3 hr (setting of 2, with standard battery)
  • Weight: 10 lbs (with battery)
  • Dimensions: 11.5 x 10 x 6 (W x H x D in inches)
  • Maximum oxygen output: 1440 ml/min (on pulse dose)
  • Best for: Single unit solution that is great for all-around daytime and nighttime use
  • Click here for more information on SimplyGo

 Caire SeQual Eclipse 5

  • Most powerful and versatile unit available
  • Settings: 1 to 9 (continuous flow also available)
  • Battery life: Up to 5 hr 6 min (setting of 2, with standard battery)
  • Weight: 18.4 lbs (with battery)
  • Dimensions: 12.3 x 19.3 x 7.1 (W x H x D in inches)
  • Maximum oxygen output: 2304 ml/min (on pulse dose)
  • Best for: Those needing higher flow rates of oxygen or wanting more headroom
  • Click here for more information on Eclipse 5

Home (and Portable) Oxygen Concentrator Liter Flows

Continuous Flow Oxygen Concentrator Liter Flow

Exhibit 3: Most Popular Home Oxygen Concentrators in 2020 and their Highest Liter Flow
Note: Apple is shown in the image to show relative size.

Respironics SimplyGo

  • Most versatile unit available
  • Liter Flow: 0.5 to 2 LPM (pulse dose also available)
  • Battery life: Up to 1 hr 36 min (on 1 LPM, with standard battery)
  • Weight: 10 lbs (with battery)
  • Dimensions: 11.5 x 10 x 6 (W x H x D in inches)
  • Maximum oxygen output: 2 LPM (on continuous flow)
  • Best for: Single unit solution that is great for all-around daytime and nighttime use
  • Click here for more information on SimplyGo

 Caire SeQual Eclipse 5

  • Most powerful and versatile unit available
  • Liter Flow: 0.5 to 3 LPM (pulse dose also available)
  • Battery life: Up to 3 hr 40 min (on 1 LPM, with standard battery)
  • Weight: 18.4 lbs (with battery)
  • Dimensions: 12.3 x 19.3 x 7.1 (W x H x D in inches)
  • Maximum oxygen output: 3 LPM (on continuous flow)
  • Best for: Those needing higher flow rates of oxygen or wanting more headroom
  • Click here for more information on Eclipse 5

Inogen At Home 5L

  • Currently the smallest stationary oxygen concentrator
  • Liter Flow: 1 to 5 LPM
  • Power Consumption: 275 W Maximum
  • Weight: 18 lbs
  • Dimensions: 13 x 16.5 x 7 (W x H x D in inches)
  • Maximum oxygen output: 5 LPM
  • Best for: Low power consumption and taking along while traveling
  • Click here for more information on Inogen at Home

Respironics EverFlo Q

  • Currently has the quietest stationary oxygen concentrator
  • Liter Flow: 0.5 to 5 LPM
  • Power Consumption: 350 W Maximum
  • Weight: 31 lbs
  • Dimensions: 15 x 22.8 x 9.5 (W x H x D in inches)
  • Maximum oxygen output: 5 LPM
  • Best for: Those needing low-maintenance and quiet nights
  • Click here for more information on EverFlo Q
  • EverFlo Q with Oxygen Percentage Indicator, EverFlo Q OPI, monitors oxygen purity and alerts when purity degrades

Caire Companion 5

  • Easy-to-Use
  • Liter Flow: 0.5 to 5 LPM
  • Power Consumption: 350 W Maximum
  • Weight: 36 lbs
  • Dimensions: 12.5 x 21.5 x 13.5 (W x H x D in inches)
  • Maximum oxygen output: 5 LPM
  • Best for: Daily routine at home
  • Click here for more information on Companion 5

Invacare Platinum 10

  • Currently has the best user-friendly design
  • Liter Flow: 2 to 10 LPM
  • Power Consumption: 585 W Typical
  • Weight: 53 lbs
  • Dimensions: 18 x 26 x 14 (W x H x D in inches)
  • Maximum oxygen output: 10 LPM
  • Best for: 24-hour oxygen needs
  • Click here for more information on Platinum 10
  • Platinum 10 with SensO2 monitors oxygen purity and alerts when purity degrades

Respironics Millennium M10

  • Currently has the best oxygen liter flow range
  • Liter Flow: 1 to 10 LPM
  • Power Consumption: 600 W Average
  • Weight: 53 lbs
  • Dimensions: 13.3 x 26.8 x 18.9 (W x H x D in inches)
  • Maximum oxygen output: 10 LPM
  • Best for: Reliable operation and safety alerts
  • Click here for more information on Millennium M10
  • Millennium M10 with Oxygen Purity Indicator monitors oxygen purity and alerts when purity degrades

Caire AirSep NewLife Intensity 10

  • The best unit to run with a nebulizer or use in conjunction with a hyperbaric chamber
  • Liter Flow: 2 to 10 LPM
  • Power Consumption: 600 W
  • Weight: 58 lbs
  • Dimensions: 16.5 x 27.5 x 14.5 (W x H x D in inches)
  • Maximum oxygen output: 10 LPM
  • Best for: High-pressure application at 20 psi and usage with up to 200 feet long tubing
  • Click here for more information on Intensity 10

Discontinued Oxygen Concentrators

Advancement in technology has benefitted us with smaller, lighter, quieter, and more powerful oxygen concentrators, making the old ones obsolete. In this section, we state some of the obsolete oxygen concentrators worth a mention. So, if you have been using these concentrators and want to upgrade to the next gen, then find the comparable oxygen concentrator in the sections above.

Portable Oxygen Concentrators

  • Setting Range 1 – 3 – AirSep Focus and AirSep Freestyle
  • Setting Range 1 – 4 – Lifechoice Activox by Inova Labs
  • Setting Range 1 – 5 – Inogen One G2, AirSep Freestyle 5, and Invacare XPO2
  • Setting Range 1 – 6 – Respironics EverGo and iGo by DeVilbiss

Home Oxygen Concentrators

  • 2 Liter per Minute – Respironics SimplyFlo
  • 5 Liter per Minute – Invacare Perfecto and AirSep Visionaire

 

Disclaimer: Information on this page is for educational purposes only. For more information, talk to your doctor or primary care provider.

Updated: August 29, 2023
Published: October 2, 2014

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Nick joined AMSR in 2007 and is the Lead Oxygen Specialist. He is factory-trained by Respironics, DeVilbiss, Inogen, Invacare, and SeQual. He is also certified to repair select oxygen concentrators and other sleep therapy products.

About Nick Vannatta:

Nick joined AMSR in 2007 and is the Lead Oxygen Specialist. He is factory-trained by Respironics, DeVilbiss, Inogen, Invacare, and SeQual. He is also certified to repair select oxygen concentrators and other sleep therapy products.

100 thoughts on “Summary of Oxygen Concentrator Liter Flows

  1. My wife is at end stage copd. She needs between 5 and 8 liters of oxygen depending on her activity. Do they offer machines that produce more than 10 liters ? That is as high as her machine will go.

    • Unfortunately, we do not offer any units that produce more than 10 liters however, there is a possible solution. We can tether 2 concentrators together to produce the higher flow that your wife requires. If you’ll give our Oxygen Specialists a call at 877-774-9271 they’ll be able to work with you to find a solution.

    • Hi we hv just had a resident return from Hospital on oxygen therapy. The prescription is 24-28% or 2-4 litres.
      The condenser has digits going up both sides one side is 123456 and the other side reads 1/2 1/4 3/4 etc. Could you advise me on the correct setting thank you.

          • It’s crucial to use oxygen therapy equipment safely and according to healthcare provider recommendations to ensure the best outcomes for patients while minimizing risks and complications. If there is a need to adjust the oxygen flow rate, it should only be done under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional.

        • Our Oxygen Specialist would be happy to help you out with your requirements. Please give us a call at (877) 644-4581.

  2. My grandmother needs 6-7 ltrs oxygen so we’ve merged two months concentrators together At what setting does the airsep visionaire concentrator give max O2 output %? Is it 3ltr, 3.5ltr or 4ltr?

    • Thank you for your comment. If you’ll give our Customer Service Department a call at 877-303-9289, they’ll be able to work with you to better understand concentrator tethering.

  3. Hi. I have an InogenOne G3 and have been told by a friend in the UK that the highest setting gives only 2Lpm. Is that true? On an American site it says 1050ml. What is that equivalent too?
    Regards
    Barry Drake

    • Great question, Barry. The Inogen One G3 manual indicates that it delivers roughly 14ml per bolus per flow setting at 15 breaths per minute so approximately 210ml/min per flow setting. Depending on your model, if the settings go up to a flow setting of 5, it can deliver upwards of 1050ml.If you’d like to know more about the specifications and specifics of the machine, feel free to view the online user manual here: Inogen One G3 User Manual

      • In order to help a confused rather simple non technical person can you please say if 3lpm equivalent is possible from inogen one g3 yes or no?
        with thanks JV

        • Thank you for your inquiry, John. I have passed along your information to a specialist who will reach out regarding your request. For more immediate assistance feel free to give our specialists a call at 888-360-9628 or if you prefer email sales@amsrco.com

          • to clarify at highest setting produces abit over 1L in a minute. For calculations I use a 50/50 inhale/exhale ratio, meaning the amount of gas you inhale equals the amount you exhale.. So thats meaning at its highest setting, its barely a 2L continuous equivalent machine. Thats the fallacy with portables, they are not rated in L, its just a setting. Even the G5 only produces 2.5L (1.25ml from unit) continuous equivalent at setting 6. Basically take any setting on a machine divide by 2 and you are close to what it really is.

      • My father is on 2L/min continuous flow and we want to travel using the Imogen One G3 – not sure what the settings should be and how to adjust for when he is in an aircraft?

        • Start with a setting of 2 or 3 and see if it’s keeping the blood oxygen saturation at a normal level. At a higher altitude, more oxygen supply may be needed. Please contact your primary physician for advice.
          Note, Inogen G3 is a pulse-dose only unit. If the continuous flow is a must, consider Philips Respironics SimplyGo or CAIRE Eclipse 5 portable units.

          • uh, not even at setting 2 or 3. Highest setting produces just over 1L Pulse, so 2L continuous equivalent

    • If you turn the leader knob up so that the little bubble is floating around 5 L instead of two does that also increase the amount of airflow going through the patient’s mouth?

      • Yes, it’ll increase the airflow. At 2, the concentrator provides 2 liters of medical-grade oxygen per minute and at 5, it provides the same medical-grade oxygen at 5 liters per minute.

  4. I am prescribed 4LPM (continuous) at what setting should I set respironics simplygo so that the pulse setting will be equivalent to 4LPM continuous.

    • Thank you for your question, MASiddiqui. The Respironics SimplyGo can only perform up to 2LPM on the continuous flow setting. You will not be able to achieve 4LPM with your machine’s continuous flow.

    • That is something your doctor would have provided you when you received your prescription. Your prescription will indicate how much oxygen you require.

    • Thank you for your inquiry, Kinley. We do not curretly offer any concentrators that produce 15 LPM of oxygen, however, it is possible to tether two concentators together in order to produce the high level of oxygen you require.

  5. I have someone that needs continuous flow oxygen. She is currently at 2 liters continuous. She must stay on continuous as the conserving devices do not keep her oxygen saturations high enough. Do you have a machine that would support her oxygen need but that is light enough to carry?

    • Thank you for your inquiry, Lacy. I have passed along your information to a specialist who will reach out regarding your request. For more immediate assistance feel free to give our specialists a call at 888-360-9628 or if you prefer email sales@amsrco.com

      • I wish you would just answer these questions. So many of us want the same answers. I don’t have the time or energy to be calling to talk to salespeople. My days are filled enough as a caregiver. You all sound like commercials and seem to be more interested in sales than actually helping people.

    • The 4 luggable pocs may have a setting that is equal to a LPM setting, the rest of them and almost all the conservers do not. Get one that goes at least 2 settings above the highest setting you may want to use. you will need to go between 1.5 to 3 poc settengs above what you need in Liters Per Minute. Encourage the Food and Drug Administration to begin regulating poc settings and make them equal to LPM.

    • the reason conservers are underperforming, is because they are horribly overrated. Pulse is not to blame, the manufacturers are to blame to trying to con people to believe .5L pulse delivery equal 2L continuous. In no respiratory model that exists, will 2L continuous delivery ever be matched by a pulse system only delivering .5L

      • It’s true that pulse flow oxygen concentrators are not able to deliver the same amount of oxygen per minute as continuous flow concentrators. Pulse flow concentrators deliver oxygen only during inhalation, while continuous flow concentrators deliver oxygen continuously, regardless of whether the patient is inhaling or exhaling.

        However, pulse flow concentrators can still be effective for many patients who only need supplemental oxygen during physical activity or exertion, rather than constantly. The advertised equivalency of pulse flow to continuous flow is often based on calculations of the amount of oxygen delivered over time, rather than an exact match of liter-per-minute delivery.

        That being said, it’s important for patients to work closely with their healthcare providers to determine the best type of oxygen delivery for their individual needs, and to not solely rely on manufacturer claims or advertising.

    • Unfortunately, bolus size does not directly relate to LPM. Here is a little background information that may be helpful.

      Bolus size (in oxygen lingo) refers to the size of the “puff” of oxygen delivered to a
      patient via a pulse delivery system. Most pulse delivery machines provide between 12 – 30
      “puffs” in a minute based upon the setting. The higher the setting, the larger the bolus size and the fewer of them delivered per minute.

      Liters per minute (or LPM) on the other hand, refers to the flow rate of continuously flowing oxygen via a continuous (or traditional) oxygen delivery system. Many people are familiar with the terminology of 2 or 3 LPM flow.

      The relationship between the two is as follows: Pulse delivery systems have settings (typically
      1-2-3 etc) which ROUGHLY correlate to the amount of oxygen a patient on a continuous flow machine using continuous flow would require. For example, if a patient typically uses 2LPM on a continuous flow machine, MOST doctors would recommend a patient start with a setting of 2 on the pulse delivery machine. It is very important to note that a setting of 2 on a pulse delivery machine DOES NOT mean
      2 LPM is flowing (or even available from the machine) and that actual settings are both patient and disease dependent.

      Although bolus size is machine dependent (i.e. different machines have different bolus sizes),
      all manufacturers are consistent in that the bolus size INCREASES with the setting (i.e a setting of 2 has a larger bolus than a setting of 1).

      If you have specific questions, feel free to contact one of our oxygen experts or customer support for additional information.

      • I am trying to figure out how many ml on a pulse machine are equal to 2 liters on a continuous flow machine. “It is very important to note that a setting of 2 on a pulse delivery machine DOES NOT mean
        2 LPM is flowing (or even available from the machine) and that actual settings are both patient and disease dependent”.
        How is this even helpful.

        • From my research, there are not any pulse machines that will deliver 2 Liters continuous flow. The closest one I have foud is the Inogen One G5 at 6 pulse dose, the continuous flow equalvent is 1.2 Literes.

          • Continuous flow liters cannot be directly compared to pulse dose. It is true that the maximum output of Inogen G5 is 1.2 liters in a minute. However, the G5 only delivers oxygen on inspiration. Whereas a continuous flow unit will deliver oxygen irrespective of inspiration. There are portable units capable of delivering up to 3 liters per minute. Our Oxygen Specialists would be happy to understand your requirements and advise the way forward. Please give us a call at (877) 644-4581.

    • There is a device called an Oxymizer that can help with this. I have passed along your information to a specialist who will reach out regarding your request. For more immediate assistance feel free to give our specialists a call at 888-360-9628 or if you prefer email sales@amsrco.com

    • Oxygen saturation level is ideal at 87% or higher. A properly working O2 machine should produce this for you if you are on the correct setting for your needs.

  6. Hi,
    My mother is currently on 5 lpm in home but 6 lpm continious flow while she is out of the house. She is having a hard time getting around and is having to cart E cylinders. Is there such thing as a portable unit that possibly goes up to 8 lpm that’s on the lighter side for her to venture out with?
    Cheers!

    • Theresa, unfortunately at this time there is not a portable oxygen concentrator on the market that goes to that high of a setting on continuous flow. There is a machine that will go to a pulse dose setting of 6 if she can do continuous flow.

  7. I am a former athlete who is now disabled by hemidiaphragm paralysis. I still attempt to bike or ski but I feel like I am suffocating as my SpO2 drops into the mid-low 80s. When I exercise, my respiratory rate maxes out at 60 before my O2 sat drops. Can an Imogen G4 accomodate a resiratory rate of 60 breaths/minute? Could a small portable oxygen concentrator help me?

    • Hi Steve, I have passed along your information to one of our oxygen specialist who will be reaching out to you shortly. To make sure that you are getting the best unit for your needs they will talk with you about your activities as well as your oxygen requirements. In the meantime feel free to contact us at 888-360-9829 or if you prefer email sales@amsrco.com. We look forward to helping you with your oxygen needs.

  8. My mother received one of your machines but they never told her on which strength to use it. She used it on 5 for a day now with no problems. However a friend now told her that it is dangerous to use it at such a high setting as her lungs may freeze?
    On what setting should she use it?
    Her oncologist prescribed the machine as she has cancer in her lungs.

    • Your prescription will tell you what setting to put the machine on. If you can’t find that call your doctor to confirm.

  9. Suffering from life long sinusitus I am unable to maintain a flow of O2 through a cannula because my 70 year moutb breathing habit cannot be overcome continuously. Nobody seems to supply equipment for a mouth and nose mask as it needs very high o2 flows. Solutions?

  10. Im caring for my brothernlaw and his hospital dismissal dr order was he needs 1liter of oxygen,what #should his continuous home concentrator be set on? Thank you

    • Hi Jennifer, Did the they indicate if he was needing continuous or pulse? also since each machine and manufacturer has different delivery levels (at each setting). You should consult the machine he is using and ensure that he is ok to use a pulse delivery. Good luck and hope he has a speedy recovery.

  11. I have COPD. Dr set oxygen at 5 liters. Is there anything I can do to decrease the liters of oxygen to a lower number?

  12. My mom just got her 1st O2 concentrator. She is to be on 3L. Where should the red indicator ball be set at? The top of the red ball at the 3L mark, or the middle of the ball at the 3L mark

    • The center of the red ball should align with the marking on the flow meter for the required oxygen output.

  13. My Mother in law has been on 2l- 2.5l of continuous flow E cylinder O2 for 8 yrs. She wants a smaller unit, but the 6 min walk she did to ‘see’ if she qualifies for one, her pulse ox was 88. Is there a smaller unit that would accommodate a continuous flow, at the 2.5l to 3l?
    Thanks

    • Check whether the oxygen setting on your concentrator is the same as prescribed by your doctor. An excessive supply of oxygen may lead to Hyperoxia.

  14. Hello,
    I am trying to locate a continuous flow portable or not portable that has the lowest setting possible for my loved one. She is currently at .25 lpm. I am having difficulty finding some. Is there anyway you can assist me?

  15. For a stationery oxygen concentrator, is output pressure related to flow? Does a 5 LPM flow have the same output pressure as a 2 LPM flow? Do all concentrators have the same output pressure for equivalent flows?
    Thank you.

  16. Wife is currently using the Everflo Q at night set at 2.5 lpm. She is considering a smaller, lighter unit for travel ( inogen gs 100). The Inogen has only 5 setting (1-5). Since she is using a setting of 2.5 on Everflo, would it be safe to use the 3 setting on the Inogen? Thanks

    • Inogen GS-100 is ‘Inogen At Home’ oxygen concentrator which is a continuous flow unit. So, the liter flows on Everflo Q and Inogen At Home are comparable. An increase of 0.5 LPM should be safe. However, we do recommend checking this with the respiratory therapist. Also, our Oxygen Specialists would be happy to answer any questions you have regarding the units. You may reach us at (888)572-5831.

  17. At one point in time I had an Ever Go…If I used it at night at times when we traveled an alarm would go off which I believe was related to the high breath Indicator…It provided 1.05 liters per minute according to the old booklet I have…I am currently on 2 LPM..Will the “new” Simply go work for me at night (without alarms going off). Acording to what I read it offers a continuous flow of 2LPM and numerous pulse options. Also for activity is it possible to use at a higher pulse rate and if so what? I want a continuous flow machine. One that runs on A/C and D/C.. and offers decent Battery time…in general I liked the way the Ever-go was set up but am wondering if the Simiply go might be an the lower limits of my current needs (or not?).

    What is the average life of such machines? What type of regular maintenance do they need? Do you provide such Service and what is your average turn around time if you do?

    • Thanks for your comment, Jean. We’ve got Respironics SimplyGo and SeQual Eclipse 5 as continuous-flow portable units. We can quickly answer all your questions over a phone call. Please reach us out at (888) 387-5914. We are open seven days a week.

  18. I own an am using using an EverFlo OPI concentrator set at 3.5L 24/7; 50 foot tubing plus 7 foot cannula, swivel couplings [2]. After about 5 minutes of operation the yellow warning light comes on, no audible alarm. Removed the 50 foot tubing and retested with just 7 foot cannula. After about 5 minutes of operation the yellow warning light came on, no audible alarm. Removed all tubing and retested. After about 5 minutes of operation the yellow warning light came on, no audible alarm.
    Changed the input filter and vacuumed the filter holder compartment and cover. Cleaned cover holes with toothpicks. No foam filter on inside rear case for input cooling fan but noted debris visible through top rear grill. Vacuumed the lower exhaust grill on the rear cover. Retested all variations as above with same results. What is recommended solution?

    • Hi James, this is a special alert in OPI units. This alarms tells that you’ll soon need to send the unit for repairs for low oxygen condition. You can continue to use the unit but please contact your equipment provider for repairs and setup an alternate solution.

  19. I am interested in a 0-15LPM concentrator by medical recommendation, I saw in the comments that there is no such portable product in the market, I also read that 2 concentrators of 0-10LPM can be put together to achieve those high levels of continuous flow, ¿ Are the proper manufacturing regulations followed or what would the process be like?

  20. What is the different between 10L and 5L capacity. Could you please explain how to choose between these two capacities.
    We need it for home use but it should meet the medical emergency.

        • I have read people doing that. You’d require a Y-connector to join two tubings from the units and then a high-flow nasal cannula (capable to supply up to 10 liters/minute oxygen).
          Additionally, Y-connector can also be used to split oxygen for two patients.

  21. Require Minimum 90@% flow rate at 10 ltrs/min. About 10-20 units required. Which model unit would be appropriate?

    • We carry AirSep Intensity 10 and Respironics Millennium M10. Both the units are great options for 10 LPM continuous flow. Currently, we are out of stock of both the models, please give us a call at +1 (877) 644-4581 to check the inventory.

  22. Hi, my mom is in hospital on 60% O2 at 15l/m. What does this correlate to if using a concentrator, is there a chart to show this correlation. Thanks.

    • Hello Terry, Oxygen concentrators can deliver upto 10 LPM on continuous flow. For that high oxygen requirement, proper medical attention is required and oxygen can be supplied from a compatible oxygen tank. Please discuss the options with your doctor.

  23. Hello, My husband is on 3 litre flow of oxygen at home and 4 litres for walking. I read that on a plane they supply a 2 litre oxygen flow. Would that be enough for him on a 3hour + 20 minute flight?
    Also who fills out the Fit to fly form? Does it have to be the lung specialist or can it be a local Doctor?
    Thanks
    Kris

    • Airlines do not supply oxygen to the passengers except for emergency situations. Your medical provider would be the best to advise what flow liter will work for your husband as the oxygen requirement slightly increases on airplanes.
      We have got FAA-approved oxygen concentrators for in-flight usage. Our Oxygen Specialist would be happy to help you out with your requirements. Please give us a call at (877) 644-4581.

  24. My brother is using the Oxygen Concentrator Unit, but can you advise what level should he be using it on because human cannot take in 100% pure oxygen?

    • We cannot give any medical advice; please consult with your physician or health care provider. They are the qualified experts to assess the condition and provide treatment.

  25. good content and fully clear the concept of liter because so many people confuse in lpm of oxygen concentrator

  26. I HAVE A EVERFLO/ OPI RESPIRONICS IP21. GO TO BED AT 10:00 PM PRESSURE IS GOOD, AT 3;30 TO 6;30 IN THE MORNING THE PRESSURE WAS DROPPED TO HARDLY NOTHING. WHERE AS I COULD BLOW BACK FROM MY MOUTH TO THE MACHINE WITH NO EFFERT, NOW I HARDLEY HAVE ANYTHING COMING OUT, BEFORE IF I PUT THE HOSE IN MY MOTH IT WOULD PUFF MY CHEACKS OUT IT WON’T DO THAT ANY MORE, MY SETTING WAS SUPPOSE TO BE 3.5, NOW I HAVE IT SET AT JUST ABOUT 5 JUST SHORT OF THE ALARM GOING OFF. IS THIS THE WAS IT IS OR SHOULD I SEE ABOUT PURCHASING A NEW MACHINE. THANKS GARY

    • Looks like your unit needs repairs. We can quickly answer all your questions over a phone call. Please reach us out at (877) 644-4581. We are open seven days a week.

  27. Is there a portable oxygen concentrator which can delivery up to 4 liters of oxygen for an airplane flight (continuous flow if possible)?

    • CAIRE Eclipse 5 is the most powerful portable oxygen concentrator on the market. It can deliver up to 3 LPM on continuous flow. Our Oxygen Specialist would be happy to help you out with your requirements. Please give us a call at (877) 644-4581.

  28. My 62 y.o. wife has mild asthma and porphyria. With no alert reports in the literature or from the Mayo Clinic, we took a trip from Las Vegas to Denver (via Breckenridge and its ski lift to 9300 ft). Many in Breckenridge, even kids, were on POCs but we thought little of it. When we crested at 12K ft in Rocky Min Nat’l Park she presented with severe pulmonary problems and ended up unconscious for 2 days in Estes Park Hospital. I knew how to treat her (½ Normal D5W, wide open as a chelator), the ER staff did so, and recovery was successful. After a later oversees plane flight, we next discovered that low cabin [O2] pressure was a trigger, and she again was in the ER when we got back to Montreal. She now uses a rented POC on all flights (at setting 2) with her PO2 staying at 97 or 98. Low ambient [O2] seems to mess up her degradation of the porphyrin rings on the heme molecule as the spleen pumps out more. Here’s the question: Besides flights, if we travel say to Switzerland, she would need a POC 24/7 at high altitude, including sleep. Is there a POC w awake/sleep modes? She just needs to avoid low [O2] triggers, and does not normally require a POC at reasonable altitudes. Mayo now knows about this complication of porphyria. Advice welcome.

    • Hello Charles, thanks for sharing. If she can do pulse dose oxygen, all our POCs can reach a setting of 2 and can be operated 24/7. All our POCs meet FAA guidelines for air travel.

      If you are looking for a lightweight unit, you can go for Inogen One G4. It weighs on;y 2.8 lbs and can reach up to a setting of 3 on pulse dose.

      However, we recommend a continuous flow unit for nighttime use. Continuous flow supplies oxygen irrespective of the user’s breathing pattern. Whereas, pulse-dose oxygen is triggered by sensing the user’s breath. Many of us breathe through mouth while sleeping and that will not trigger the pulse dose appropriately. Thus, a continuous flow unit is advised.

      Philips Respironics SimplyGo is the most lightweight continuous flow portable unit. It can reach up to a setting of 6 on pulse dose and 2 LPM on continuous flow. The unit weighs 10 lbs with a battery. SimplyGo features an exclusive sleep mode for a smoother supply of oxygen at night for better sleep.

      Our Oxygen Specialist would be happy to help you out with your requirements. Please give us a call at (877) 644-4581.

    • Portable units can go highest up to a 3 LPM. However, ‘Inogen at Home’ is the lightest home unit at 18 lbs. It requires 275W power on average and can be plugged into a portable battery. Talk to our Oxygen Specialist for a free consultation, please give us a call at (877) 644-4581.

  29. I have a variety of concentrators for my personal use by my Simply Go is the most versatile one all around due to its portability and the fact that it is the only portable unit capable of continuous output which allows me to use it overnight while rigged up to my cpap, when I am away for business.

  30. I am going to be in Yellowstone for 5 days and am planning on using a concentrator for my therapy. I noted that the atmosphere O2 level is approximately 16%. What is the concentration output, say a 2 lpm?

    • It’s essential to consult with your healthcare provider for precise information about your supplemental oxygen needs.

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