What do I need to know about oxygen concentrators?
Oxygen concentrators take in air from the room and filter out nitrogen. The process provides the higher amounts of oxygen needed for oxygen therapy.
Concentrators may be large and stationary or small and portable. Concentrators are different than tanks or other containers supplying oxygen because they use electrical pumps to concentrate the continuous supply of oxygen that comes from the surrounding air.
You may have seen oxygen concentrators for sale online without a prescription. At this time, the FDA has not approved or cleared any oxygen concentrators to be sold or used without a prescription.
When using an oxygen concentrator:
- Do not use the concentrator, or any oxygen product, near an open flame or while smoking.
- Place the concentrator in an open space to reduce chances of device failure from overheating.
- Do not block any vents on the concentrator since it may impact device performance.
- Periodically check your device for any alarms to make sure you are getting enough oxygen.
If you are prescribed an oxygen concentrator for chronic health problems and have changes in your breathing or oxygen levels, or have symptoms of COVID-19, call your health care provider. Do not make changes to the oxygen levels on your own.
