How Is an Oxygen Concentrator Used? Step-by-Step Safe Use

Safe use of an oxygen concentrator is important for both device performance and user safety. The steps below are for general informational purposes regarding oxygen concentrator use; your device's own instruction manual and the guidance of your doctor/healthcare personnel always take priority.

1. Placing the device

Place the oxygen concentrator on a flat, solid floor in a well-ventilated area. It is recommended that the air intake grilles not be pressed against a wall or curtain, and that at least a few centimeters of clearance be left around the device. Insufficient ventilation can reduce the device's efficiency.

2. Setting the flow value

Set the liter/minute flow value only to the level specified by your doctor. Do not increase or decrease the flow on your own initiative; this directly affects treatment effectiveness.

3. Connecting the cannula or mask

Fit the nasal cannula or mask correctly to the device's outlet; make sure the tubing is not kinked and airflow is not obstructed. If a long tube is used, be careful to avoid kinking and tangling.

4. Operation and checking

After turning on the oxygen concentrator, check that the flow has started and, if present, that the purity indicator is in the normal range. If there is unusual noise, smell or an alarm, turn off the device and contact an authorized service provider.

Safety rules

Oxygen accelerates combustion: do not keep cigarettes, open flames or high heat sources near a running oxygen concentrator. Do not operate the device with wet hands, and plug it into a grounded outlet. Arrange the cord so as to prevent tripping.

Common mistakes

Squeezing the device into a closed, poorly ventilated corner, neglecting filter cleaning, changing the flow value without authorization, and continuing to use a worn cannula are the most common mistakes. These mistakes negatively affect both efficiency and safety.

What to do during initial setup

When using the oxygen concentrator for the first time, check the contents of the box and make sure the cannula and tubing are complete. Before turning on the device, confirm that the outer filter is fitted. On the first startup, check that flow is felt at the outlet and observe that the device's warm-up/operating sound is normal.

What do alarms and warnings mean?

Many oxygen concentrators give an audible/visual alarm in the event of low purity, a power outage, or a flow problem. When the alarm sounds, first check for a blockage in the cannula or tubing and that the plug is properly connected. If the problem persists, turn off the device and contact an authorized service provider; do not ignore the alarm.

Frequently asked questions

Can I increase the flow value myself?

No. The liter/minute value is determined by the doctor and should not be changed without their approval.

Can there be an open flame near the oxygen concentrator?

No. Since oxygen accelerates combustion, it must be kept away from cigarettes, open flames and heat sources.

How many hours a day is it used?

The duration of use is specific to the individual and is determined by the doctor. For continuous use, service intervals should also be considered.

How often should the cannula be replaced?

It should be replaced regularly according to the manufacturer's and hygiene recommendations.

What should I do if the device heats up?

Check the ventilation; if the problem persists, turn off the oxygen concentrator and contact an authorized service provider.

Prepared by: Medikal Firma content team · Updated: 17.06.2026 · Information is compiled based on general usage guides and manufacturer instructions.

This content is for general informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Always consult your doctor or the relevant healthcare personnel regarding device or product use, settings and treatment decisions.