As the second wave of corona virus hit the world, oxygen concentrators have been much in demand.  Like any other electronic equipment, proper usage and care is necessary for the oxygen concentrators to perform well.

But how does an Oxygen Concentrator work?

§  An oxygen concentrator takes in ambient air, removes nitrogen from it to supply an oxygen-enriched gas (usually 90-96% oxygen).

§  Main components – air compressor & two cylinders filled with zeolite pellets or beads.

§  It is the zeolite pellets (molecular sieve beds) which adsorb nitrogen and hence help produce oxygen rich gas. 

§   Average life span of a concentrator is stated as 5 years or 10000 hours based mainly on molecular sieve bed life. However, if the Sieve bed life is over, then even if the machine has hardly been used, problem with oxygen concentrators is it may no longer produce oxygen with adequate purity.

§  Even if it is not needed, it is advisable to run an oxygen concentrator for about 30-60 minutes every month or so, to keep it functional.

In this write up we will tell you about the common problems faced, how to recognize and overcome them.

The most common problems are –

·       Low oxygen flow problem with oxygen concentrators

Naturally we expect that the oxygen concentrator should deliver oxygen at the flow rates settings at all times. But if you feel its not providing enough oxygen, here is a check list for you to follow-

ü  If the green LED is on and alarm is not beeping –  Everything is great !

ü  Is the nasal cannula or tubing is properly placed. Cannula or tubing is not coming loose or there is no kink anywhere. There should not be any leak or block to the oxygen flow from the machine to the user.

ü  Is  the Yellow LED is on and you can hear the beep ? It means the machine is not working normally. This is an indication of low oxygen and hence the alarm. Call your service engineer.

·       Low oxygen purity problem with oxygen concentrators

ü  The Yellow LED will come on, if the oxygen concentration is beginning to fall below normal. If not addressed the performance may start deteriorating. 

ü  When the Red LED is on and alarm is beeping continuously, the oxygen purity is way below normal already. Call your service engineer.

ü  Periodic cleaning of the filters is essential.

·       Oxygen Concentrator is heating up

ü  Does your concentrator heat up after 5-6 hours of use ? Switch it off and give it a rest for 20-30 minutes. On the whole there is nothing to worry about if an oxygen concentrator heats up.

ü  Oxygen concentrators need to be kept at a reasonable temperature in order to prevent overheating or becoming too cold for use. 

ü  Please ensure that the atmospheric temperature of the room is maintained as per manufacturer instructions.

ü  There should be adequate ventilation to let out heat produced by the compressor.

·       Other common errors in oxygen concentrators

1. Upon switching the machine on, Audible Alarm is beeping continuously but none of the LEDs are on – This means the machine is not receiving power. Check whether the power cord plug is connected to the machine at all, or is it properly inserted in the electrical socket outlet or check if the outlet is delivering power.
2. If the machine is not working, alarm is beeping continuously and all 3 LEDs are on – the machine is malfunctioning. There may be an internal part failure. You need to call the service engineer.
3. A yellow or red LED is blinking and alarm is intermittent. Such malfunctioning could happen because of water/ moisture seepage inside or dust, upsetting the working of internal sensors.
4. You may be getting an oxygen error indicating that oxygen output is low or isn’t working as it should. You may be getting other inconsistent alarms.

Some other important precautions-

Cleaning & Disinfection of Exterior Body

 It should be cleaned weekly and in between 2 patients

Switch off the machine à disconnect it from the power sourceà Clean the exterior with a damp cloth with a mild soap or household cleaner à wipe it dry

Between two patients, the humidifier bottle should be disinfected by soaking in antiseptic solution for 30 minutes, rinsed with clean water and dried completely in air before using again.

Disinfecting the Humidifier bottle

• Never use tap water in a humidifier bottle

• Always use distilled/ Sterile water and change the water every day completely (not just top-up)

• Empty the humidifier bottle, wash inside and out with soap and water, rinse with a disinfectant( 10 parts water and one part vinegar as a disinfectant.), and follow with a hot water rinse; then refill the humidification bottle with distilled water.

• Avoid touching the inside of the bottle or lid after it has been cleaned and disinfected to prevent contamination.
• Fill-up above ‘Min’ line and slightly below the ‘Max’ level indicated on the bottle. 

A Contamination of Nasal Cannula

·         Should be disposed-off after use.

·        should not have direct contact with potentially contaminated surfaces.

·         Don’t leaving the nasal cannula on the floor, furniture, bed linens, etc.) 

Replacing Oxygen Tubing & other accessories

• ·They need to be replaced with new sterile supplies at the frequency stated in the manufacturer’s instructions for use.
• ·If the manufacturer has not specified a frequency, change the nasal cannula every two weeks, or more often if it is visibly soiled or malfunctions 
• · Replace the oxygen tubing, including the water trap, monthly or more frequently as needed.

Filter Cleaning in Oxygen Concentrators

The filter must be removed, washed with soap and water, rinsed and thoroughly air dried before replacing.

 The most important Step in disinfection and infection control

Hand hygiene !

Stay healthy! Stay Safe!