Like all electronic devices, oxygen concentrators need to be kept at a reasonable temperature in order to prevent overheating or becoming too cold for use. If not, you may get an error on your control panel or an audible notification or the device may simply shut off. Make sure that all air intakes and outputs are free of obstruction and try switching out your battery if one gets too hot. 

Troubleshooting Checklist

Before you contact your equipment provider, there are a few things you can try, no matter what error or symptom you’re experiencing. Follow this checklist to see if it fixes your device.

Perform a hard reset

Turn the oxygen concentrator off and unplug it from the wall. Remove the battery pack and leave it for 30 minutes. After the allotted time, plug it back into the wall, turn it on, and put the battery pack in after 10 minutes.

• Check all vents and your cannula to ensure they aren’t obstructed
• Ensure your battery isn’t loose or try replacing it with a backup
• Check for physical damage on the system or the battery
• Research any error message in your device manual
• Take note of the error code and frequency of the issue you’re experiencing

If you should need to contact the equipment provider for assistance, the error code or symbol will help them identify what is causing the issue. 

General Operating Guidelines

In order to prevent errors in the future, you should follow your oxygen concentrator’s best practices. Although every oxygen concentrator or portable oxygen concentrator is different, there are some general rules of thumb that you should follow. Be sure to consult your user manual for more specific information about maintaining your device and contact your equipment provider if you have any further questions.

Storing Your Concentrator

Oxygen concentrators should be stored in an environment that is not too cold, too hot, or too humid. Concentrators that are stored in these environments for a prolonged period of time may experience damage to their internal components and may not work. 

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Don’t Smoke Around It

It’s generally safe to assume that any airborne pollutants will be bad for your oxygen concentrator and this is especially true when it comes to smoking. If smoke enters the vents on the device it could damage internal components and cause your sieve beds to wear down more quickly. If you’re setting the device on the floor, make sure it’s in a clean area without a lot of dust or dirt.

Troubleshoot Before Leaving Your Home

If you have a portable oxygen concentrator, it’s generally best to troubleshoot any issues before leaving the home. Although your device may still be working after an error message appears, it may stop working when you’re out and about and need it most. 

Replace Your Filter

Some concentrators have a gross particle filter that catches a lot of airborne particles like dust and dirt. It’s important that you replace this filter after a year or so in order to prevent breathing in impure air and keep your device running smoothly. You should also clean it every month with a gentle household detergent and water.

Replace Your Nasal Cannula

After a month or two of use, your cannula may become worn, kinked, and otherwise inefficient. Not only can a worn cannula lead to errors on your oxygen concentrator but you may not be receiving as much oxygen that you should if there is a leak or the tube is bent. You should inspect and clean your nasal cannula tubing regularly to prevent this. 

Fully Charge and Deplete Your Batteries

Your oxygen concentrator batteries will last longer if you charge them up fully and then deplete them fully at least once a month. Just like with your phone or laptop, you should try to avoid charging your oxygen concentrator batteries multiple times a day. And if you have an extra battery pack, be sure to swap it out with your main one every once in a while so it gets some use.

Ask For Help

Above all, you should never wait to get your questions answered about your oxygen concentrator. Although they’re usually very reliable, getting your device fixed sooner rather than later will ensure it lasts as long as possible. Keep your equipment suppliers phone number on hand to ensure you always have someone to go to if your device isn’t working.

Conclusion

Home and portable oxygen concentrators have come a long way in a short time. While this means you have access to a high-tech oxygen therapy device wherever you need it, you may find it difficult to get the information you need to maintain your device and fix errors. 

If the issue you’re experiencing wasn’t discussed here be sure to consult your device manual or contact your equipment provider. If you have a caregiver, he/she will help you maintain and clean your oxygen concentrator and troubleshoot any errors. Online COPD forums are also a great place to speak with other people who may be experiencing the same issues with their device.