Which oxygen concentrator to choose: stationary, continuous flow, noise and maintenance

An oxygen concentrator produces oxygen from ambient air and delivers it through a nasal cannula or a mask. This guide explains the criteria for comparing devices: stationary or portable, continuous flow, noise, power consumption and maintenance. The flow rate and duration of oxygen use are always set by your doctor's prescription.

Stationary or portable concentrator

• Stationary concentrator: it runs on mains power and stays at home or in the care facility. It can be moved from one room to another on its castors or by its handle.
• Portable concentrator: lighter, it also runs on battery for travelling. SelfiMed Europe does not sell portable concentrators at present.

The criteria for comparing

Continuous flow

The stationary concentrators in our selection deliver oxygen in continuous flow: the device supplies oxygen without interruption, at the flow rate set according to the prescription. Each product page shows the device's flow range, according to the manufacturer. The flow rate to use is not a purchasing choice: it is prescribed by your doctor.

Oxygen concentration

The product pages show the oxygen concentration stated by the manufacturer, and whether there is a purity indicator with an alarm if the concentration is too low.

Noise

A stationary concentrator runs continuously, often at night. The noise level stated by the manufacturer is shown on each product page. It may vary with the flow setting.

Electricity

A stationary concentrator runs on mains power. Compare the power consumption stated by the manufacturer and check the voltage of the version ordered: some models are available in 230 V and in 110 V or 120 V, and these versions are not interchangeable.

Weight and size

The stationary models in our selection weigh about 14 kg, according to the manufacturer. The castors or the handle make it easier to move them around the home.

Maintenance

The air filter is cleaned and replaced according to the manufacturer's instructions. The molecular sieves, which separate oxygen from the air, wear with running hours. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for your device.

Models in stock

Specifications according to the manufacturer, taken from the product pages. The price of each device is shown on its product page.

The SysMed M50 is new: it comes with the manufacturer's warranty. The VisionAire 5 and the EverFlo OPI are used: they come with the 3-month SelfiMed warranty.

According to its product page, the EverFlo OPI has been discontinued by the manufacturer: check the availability of spare parts and filters. For the SysMed M50 and the EverFlo OPI, check the voltage of the version ordered.

What is delivered, and what to plan for

Only the items named on the product page are delivered: the device and its power cord. The humidifier bottle, nasal cannula and tubing are not included. You will find a bubble humidifier, nasal cannulas and an oxygen mask in our Oxygen concentrators collection. Humidification is also a matter for the prescription.

Used devices, warranty and safety

• Used device: it is tested before being put on sale, and checked clean and ready to use before dispatch.
• 3-month SelfiMed warranty on used devices, in addition to the legal guarantee of conformity (see the conditions). New devices, such as the SysMed M50: manufacturer's warranty.
• Oxygen accelerates combustion: do not smoke and keep any flame away from the device and from the person receiving oxygen.

Delivery, collection and returns

• Delivery to the European Union and Switzerland. Costs and times are shown on each product page according to your country (see our shipping policy).
• Collection possible from the Annemasse depot (16 rue Germain-Sommeiller, 74100 Annemasse), by appointment only: contact us before coming.
• Returns: consumers have 14 days to change their mind, under our returns policy.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a stationary and a portable concentrator?

A stationary concentrator runs on mains power and stays at home or in the care facility. A portable concentrator, which is lighter, also runs on battery for travelling. We do not sell portable concentrators at present.

Which flow rate should I choose?

The flow rate and duration of oxygen use are set by your doctor's prescription. Each product page shows the device's flow range, according to the manufacturer.

Are the humidifier bottle and nasal cannula supplied?

No. The concentrator is delivered with its power cord. The humidifier bottle, nasal cannula and tubing are ordered separately.

How do I maintain an oxygen concentrator?

Clean and replace the air filter according to the manufacturer's instructions, and follow its guidance for maintaining the device.

Is a used concentrator covered by a warranty?

Yes, it comes with the 3-month SelfiMed warranty, in addition to the legal guarantee of conformity. It is tested before being put on sale, and checked clean and ready to use before dispatch.

Medical device: use according to the manufacturer's instructions. The flow rate and duration of oxygen are set by your doctor's prescription.