An oxygen concentrator draws in room air, removes most of the nitrogen and delivers oxygen-enriched air to the patient. It replaces cylinder refills for patients who need oxygen for long hours, and it is now standard equipment in clinics, nursing homes and hospital wards. This guide explains the choices that matter when you buy one.
Flow rate: 5 LPM or 10 LPM
Flow rate is the maximum oxygen output in litres per minute (LPM). A 5 LPM unit suits most home patients and clinics where the prescribed flow is 1 to 4 LPM. A 10 LPM unit suits wards, emergency rooms and patients who need higher flows, and some models can split the flow between two patients. Always follow the prescribing doctor’s flow requirement, and choose a unit whose maximum is comfortably above it.
Oxygen purity
Medical concentrators typically deliver around 90 to 95 percent oxygen at their rated flow. Purity usually drops as flow increases, so check the specification at the flow you will actually use. Prefer models with an oxygen purity indicator (OPI) that alarms when purity falls.
Single flow or dual flow
Dual-flow models have two outlets so one machine can serve two patients at lower flows. They are useful in wards and step-down units, but each patient’s flow must stay within the split limits stated by the manufacturer.
Alarms and safety features
- Low purity and no-flow alarms
- Power failure alarm
- High temperature and high/low pressure protection
- Hour meter for service planning
Noise, power and portability
Check the noise level (in dB) for bedside use at night, the power consumption, and whether the unit runs on a stabiliser or UPS during power cuts. Wheels and a handle matter if the unit moves between rooms. Portable battery concentrators are lighter but usually give lower, pulse-dose flows and are meant for mobility, not continuous high flow.
Accessories and running costs
Budget for nasal cannulas, masks, humidifier bottles and filters, which need regular replacement. Ask about the warranty, service network and availability of spare parts in your city.
Concentrator or cylinder?
Concentrators suit continuous, long-hour use at low to moderate flows. Cylinders or a pipeline are still needed for very high flows, transport, and as backup during power failures, so most facilities keep both.
Get help choosing
Browse our oxygen and respiratory care range, including 5 LPM and 10 LPM concentrators, nebulizers and spirometers. For a recommendation or a quotation, call or WhatsApp +91 99165 15255.
This guide is general information. Oxygen therapy should be prescribed and monitored by a qualified doctor.