Jun. 30, 2025
Dear COPD Coach,
I have been looking for a portable oxygen concentrator and have noticed that the continuous flow models are much larger, heavier, and have less battery time than the pulse models. My questions are, first why is this so, and second can anyone using oxygen use a pulse model?
Quanju Product Page
—Confused
Dear Confused,
You are correct when you say that continuous flow portable oxygen concentrators (POCs) tend to be significantly larger. There is a very good reason for this and it is really based on simple mechanics.
Oxygen concentrators all work pretty much the same. The ambient air we breathe contains about 78% nitrogen, 21% oxygen and 1% of other gasses. The concentrator has the job of taking as much of the nitrogen out of the air as is possible while leaving the oxygen. To do this, the concentrator draws in air through the inlet filter where a compressor compresses the air and puts it into the first of two cylinders called a zenolite tower which contains sieve beds. The sieve bed’s job is to become saturated by the nitrogen. A valve then opens (that’s the “poofing” noise you hear) and then the oxygen is pushed into a second zenolite tower where additional nitrogen is removed while the nitrogen in the sieve bed is released out of the unit. The oxygen, now at around 95% purity, also leaves the unit and travels to the user.
In order to produce large volumes of oxygen continuous flow models must have very large compressors and very large sieve beds to absorb enough nitrogen. In the case of a portable continuous unit it must have larger batteries in order to power the larger compressor. Pulse units have much smaller sieve beds and smaller compressors and therefore can use smaller batteries.
Continuous flow units put out a specific adjustable dose we measure in liters per minute. The oxygen put out by pulse units cannot be measured the same since it does not produce constant oxygen for one minute. The output of a pulse unit is determined by the size of the individual pulse (called a bolus) and is measured in milliliters per breath. The other thing that must be taken into account with pulse units is the number of pulses of oxygen they produce in a minute. It is very easy to “over-breathe” these units by trying to take more breaths than they are capable of producing.
Granted, much of the oxygen in a continuous flow unit is wasted simply because we pause between breaths. Most pulse units are designed to produce a pulse when it senses you are taking a breath (conservers work the same).
Another difference between pulse units is the purity of the oxygen and when and how the bolus is released. In some cases the bolus is released immediately when it senses a breath, and in other cases it is spread out longer or occurs later in the breathing cycle. All of this affects how you are saturated with oxygen. If the bolus is released late and you are taking short breaths, some of the oxygen could be wasted.
Talk to your doctor if you have more questions.
Battery technology is advancing at a rapid pace with batteries becoming smaller and lighter but with greater capacity. However the limiting factor with producing smaller continuous flow unit remains the size of the sieve beds and the size of the compressor needed to produce the large volume of air required. So, until the technology changes in those areas we will be left with larger and heavier continuous flow units. This is also why portable continuous flow units do not put out more than 3 liters per minute.
Before purchasing a unit you should consult with your pulmonologist to determine if a pulse unit is right for you. Remember also that most people requiring supplemental oxygen require more oxygen while exerting and that might be more than what the unit is capable of producing. Also, the numbers on a pulse unit are settings NOT liter flow, so don’t think that a setting of 3 is necessarily the same as 3 liters per minute on your continuous machine. The only way to determine if you are being properly saturated by a particular unit, be it pulse or continuous, is do check your saturations with a pulse oximeter during rest and exertion. You will most likely respond the same with different units. This is a test best left to a medical professional!
If you intend to travel with your pulse unit you have to consider that it might not be suitable for use while sleeping. Many supplemental oxygen users are “mouth breathers” (especially while sleeping) and pulse units are triggered by nasal inhalation. Therefore, the effectiveness of the sensitivity of the unit should be determined. if you intend to use it during while sleeping.
So, long story short, POCs are not a “one-size fits all” proposition. Make sure you speak with a medical professional prior to purchasing a unit, and don’t hesitate to return the unit if it is not keeping you properly saturated!
-The COPD Coach
Coaches Corner is aimed at providing information for individuals with COPD to take to your doctor, and is not in any way intended to be medical advice. If you would like to submit a question to the Coaches Corner us at . We would love to hear your questions and comments. You can address your emails to The COPD Coach.
Oxygen concentrators are life-saving devices that supply concentrated oxygen to individuals with respiratory issues. Here, we address the most frequently asked questions about oxygen concentrators to help users better understand their function, maintenance, and safety.
Step-by-Step Guide:
Place the concentrator on a flat surface, away from walls to allow airflow.
Connect the nasal cannula or mask to the oxygen outlet.
Set the prescribed oxygen flow rate (measured in liters per minute).
Turn on the concentrator and check if the oxygen purity indicator is within the recommended range.
Ensure regular cleaning of external parts to prevent dust buildup.
Important Points:
Do not block the machine's vents.
Keep the concentrator at least 1-2 feet away from walls.
Always use distilled water to prevent mineral buildup, which can damage the concentrator or reduce its efficiency.
Oxygen flow rate is the volume of oxygen the concentrator delivers per minute, measured in liters per minute (LPM). Standard settings range from 1 to 5 LPM for home-use concentrators. Some advanced models can go up to 10 LPM.
Flow Rate Capacity: Ensure the concentrator meets your oxygen needs.
Oxygen Purity Level: A good concentrator delivers oxygen with 90%-95% purity.
Portability: Look for lightweight models if mobility is essential.
Noise Level: Choose a quieter device if used while sleeping.
Battery Life: For portable devices, ensure long battery support.
Additional Features: Alarm systems for low oxygen purity, low pressure, and device malfunction.
Home-use concentrators generally consume around 300-500 watts of electricity, depending on the model.
Philips Respironics EverFlo:
Are you interested in learning more about Portable Oxygen Concentrator 5 Litres? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!
Lightweight and energy-efficient.
5 LPM with oxygen purity of 93% ±3%.
Comes with a low noise level (40 dB).
Medoxy Oxygen Concentrator:
Designed for home use, offering flow rates up to 5 LPM.
Compact design and quiet operation.
Contec Oxygen Concentrator:
Affordable with a user-friendly interface.
Features include an oxygen purity indicator and built-in alarm.
Niscomed Oxygen Concentrator:
Reliable for continuous oxygen supply.
Easy-to-maintain filters and durable structure.
Weekly Cleaning: Remove and clean the external filter with mild soap and water.
Deep Cleaning: Some filters need to be replaced every 6-12 months, depending on usage.
The fan should be checked if the machine overheats or makes unusual noises. Typically, fans last 2-3 years, but this can vary based on usage.
Low Oxygen Purity Indicator: The machine is unable to deliver oxygen at the desired concentration.
E3 Error: Generally indicates an internal malfunction related to oxygen generation. Contact customer support for assistance.
Ensure proper placement of the machine in a ventilated space.
Check if the filter is clean and replace it if necessary.
If the problem persists, professional servicing may be required.
Most modern oxygen concentrators produce noise levels between 40-50 decibels, which is similar to the sound of a quiet refrigerator.
Place the concentrator in a cool, well-ventilated area, away from heat sources like stoves or direct sunlight.
Yes, most oxygen concentrators work with inverter backup, but the wattage requirement (usually 300-500 watts) should be considered when selecting an inverter.
Reputable brands like Philips and Contec have FDA approval and CE certifications, ensuring they meet international safety and performance standards.
Portable models weigh between 5-10 kg and often come with wheels or handles.
Portable oxygen concentrators usually have rechargeable batteries, making them ideal for travel.
Essential for preventing dryness in the nasal passages, especially at higher oxygen flow rates.
Requires regular cleaning to avoid contamination.
Nasal Cannula: Preferred for long-term use as it’s less restrictive and allows for eating, drinking, and talking.
Mask: Better for short-term, high-flow oxygen therapy but may feel uncomfortable over extended periods.
Keep the concentrator at least 2-3 feet away from walls and other objects to ensure proper ventilation.
Avoid using near open flames, such as gas stoves or candles, as concentrated oxygen can fuel fires.
Regularly inspect cords and connections for wear and tear to prevent electrical hazards.
This FAQ guide is intended to help you understand oxygen concentrators better, covering every aspect from usage to troubleshooting and safety measures. Always consult with healthcare providers before making decisions about oxygen therapy.
To know more about Oxygen Concentrator or Oxygen Cylinder - Check out our related Articles
If you want to learn more, please visit our website ozone air purifier.
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