FAQ's

Here is a list of common asked questions about Portable Oxygen Concentrators and Oxygen in general... If you have any questions that are not covered in this blog, email us by clicking here or call us free on 0800 028 2194.


How does an Oxygen Concentrator work?
The air that we breath is made up of several gases. One of them is Oxygen which we rely on to live. On Earth, oxygen makes up around 21% of the air that we breath with the remaining majority being Nitrogen and other noble gases that the body doesn't need. When an oxygen concentrator is in operation, it 'sucks' in the air that is around you. The air is then passed through a row of air tight molecular sieves which contain a non-hazardous, non-toxic, non-flammable chemical called Zeolite. The nitrogen in the air reacts with Zeolite and separates it from the oxygen element. The nitrogen element is removed leaving a high concentration of oxygen.

What is the difference between on-demand (pulse) or continuous flow?
In a nutshell on-demand or pulse flow is when the oxygen concentrator automatically gives you a shot of oxygen every time you inhale. Depending on the concentrator, you may have a continuous flow option which means oxygen will flow all the time without the machine relying on your breathing. Most portable oxygen concentrators are on-demand or pulse flow.

Do I have to be prescribed to use an Oxygen concentrator?
There is no law or any guidelines whatsoever to say that you have to be prescribed to purchase a portable oxygen concentrator. A good company will however ask whether you are prescribed to initially determine what machine would be suited for your needs.

Can I travel onboard an aircraft with a Portable Oxygen Concentrator?
All of the Portable Oxygen concentrators featured in this blog are airline approved. You will find most airlines will accept them for use on board a flight but be sure to confirm this before you fly. Although we say the concentrators are airline approved, ultimately the decision lies with the Airline themselves.




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