Guide to Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POCs)
Find the POC That’s Right for You.
Simplify your life with a lightweight portable oxygen machine built to keep you mobile.
Ready To Embrace
Oxygen Freedom?
Complete the Form to Request Discount Prices On Inogen, OxyGO & More!
By submitting this information, I authorize Inspired Portable Oxygen to contact me including by phone. Unsubscribe at any time. Privacy Policy
Guide to Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POCs)
Find the POC That’s Right for You.
Simplify your life with a lightweight portable oxygen machine built to keep you mobile.
Ready To Embrace
Oxygen Freedom?
Complete the Form to Request Discount Prices On Inogen, OxyGO & More!
By submitting this information, I authorize Inspired Portable Oxygen to contact me including by phone. Unsubscribe at any time. Privacy Policy
Portable Oxygen Concentrator Comparison Chart
Side-by-Side Comparison Chart – Lightweight Carry Models (Pulse Only)
| Model | O2 Flow | Weight | Dimensions Approx | Battery @ Setting 2 | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Oxyg0 Fit | 1 to 3 Pulse | 2.8 lbs | 7x6x3 inches | Up to 4.5 Hours | 5 Year Standard |
 Oxygo Next | 1 to 6 Pulse | 4.7 lbs | 9x8x4 inches | Up to 4.5 Hours | 5 Year Standard |
 Inogen G4 | 1 to 3 Pulse | 3.3 lbs | 8x6x3 inches | Up to 4.0 Hours | 3 Year Standard |
 Inogen G5 | 1 to 6 Pulse | 5 lbs | 9x8x4 inches | Up to 10 Hours | 5 Year Standard |
 Simply GO Mini | 1 to 5 Pulse | 5 lbs | 9x8x3 Inches | Up to 9.0 Hours | 3 Year Standard |
Simply GO | 1-6 Pulse & .5-2 LPM Continuous Flow | 9.5 lbs | 11.5 x 10 x 6 Inches | Up to 3.5 Hours Pulse 2 | 2 Year Standard |
Made in the USA
FDA Approved
FAA Approved
What is a Portable Oxygen Concentrator?
Are you or a loved one in need of supplemental oxygen therapy but find it difficult to stay tethered to a stationary oxygen system? Perhaps it’s time to consider the benefits of a portable oxygen concentrator (POC). These battery-powered devices draw air from the immediate environment, remove impurities, and deliver a purer therapeutic oxygen to the user via a nasal cannula. Unlike stationary oxygen systems that rely solely on an electrical outlet, a POC enables users to travel unencumbered and engage in daily activities without restriction.
POCs also offer advanced pulse dose technology, which senses inhaling patterns and releases oxygen accordingly. With some models able to connect to the Internet, monitoring your oxygen needs has never been easier. It’s critical to consult with your healthcare provider to determine which POC suits your needs, as oxygen administration is specific to your individual symptoms. Experience the freedom and convenience of a POC, and enjoy a higher quality of life.
How Portable Oxygen Concentrators Work
Breathing in pure oxygen during therapy is essential for people who need help in increasing their blood oxygen levels. Did you know when we inhale air from the atmosphere, it only contains around 21% oxygen, with the rest being nitrogen and other gases? But thanks to an oxygen concentrator, people can now inhale over 95% pure oxygen. This medical device works like magic by filtering out nitrogen from other gases and producing high-grade oxygen gas for therapeutic purposes.
Interestingly oxygen concentrators use two “zeolite towers” to absorb air and compress nitrogen, leaving purer oxygen for inhalation. The sieving beds comprising the first tower get saturated with nitrogen, and a valve opens, pushing oxygen to a second tower. The device then automatically removes the excess nitrogen, filters the oxygen to its purest state, and then it’s ready for inhalation. This is a remarkable medical device that has revolutionized the way physicians treat patients who require oxygen therapy.
How to Choose a Portable Oxygen Concentrator That’s Right for You.
Here are some key features to consider when comparing portable oxygen concentrators:
Pulse Dose vs. Continuous Flow Oxygen Delivery
There is a lot to consider when looking for a portable oxygen concentrator. It’s important to note that there are two main types of oxygen concentrators available on the market: Pulse Flow systems and Continuous Flow systems. Pulse Flow systems, also known as pulse dose systems, are designed to deliver oxygen in quick, efficient bursts by sensing when the individual is ready to take a breath. This method of oxygen delivery has come a long way and is considered the leading technology.
On the other hand, Continuous Flow oxygen concentrators deliver oxygen in a steady, uninterrupted stream, even when the user is breathing out. It’s worth noting that both technologies have their advantages and disadvantages depending on the specific needs of the user. It’s important to consult a medical professional before making a decision to ensure that you get the right oxygen concentrator for your needs.
Key Differences
A pulse flow unit releases oxygen in stages, not wasting any. However, these units are triggered by nasal inhalations, meaning they may be less effective when the patient is asleep.
The continuous flow oxygen concentrator unit produces a steady stream of oxygen. The compressors tend to be larger for this reason, and there is the possibility of oxygen waste due to the patient not breathing in constantly.
Continuous Flow units do not expel more than 3 liters per minute due to maintaining a balance between battery size and portability, and the settings allow for the user to input how many liters they want to inhale per minute. A pulse flow unit uses a particular setting mode that is not related to liters but to the number of puffs.
While pulse flow supplemental oxygen devices are the more appealing of the two types of portable concentrators, a continuous flow unit may be recommended for certain individuals. Your healthcare provider can prescribe the unit that best meets your oxygen needs.
A pulse dose system delivers oxygen in an on-demand fashion through quick, efficient bursts of oxygen by sensing when the individual is ready to take a breath. Over the years, this method of oxygen delivery has made great strides in efficacy and continues to be the leading technology.
By contrast, a Continuous Flow oxygen concentrator delivers oxygen in a steady, continuous stream, as the name applies. The oxygen flows through the tubing, no matter if the user is breathing in or out.
Battery Life
The amount of oxygen you require will affect the battery life of your unit. If the device is in use while traveling, a larger battery may be more appropriate. However, this tends to be heavier and less convenient. Many units include both a wall and car charger, allowing you to charge your POC at home or on the go. It is always recommended to have a spare battery at all times, and when traveling via airplane, according to regulations, the battery must be able to last twice the length of flying time.
Also note that systems smelling of smoke are not allowed to be returned, refunded, or exchanged, and the unit’s warranty will be deemed void by the manufacturer.
Capacity
The bigger the oxygen machine, the more output capacity it has. However, this does not mean larger units are the most convenient, especially if the user likes to travel. It is essential patients test a concentrator before committing to one.
Customers are not responsible for shipping costs associated with refusing equipment that has been damaged during shipping as long as the item is refused at the time of delivery. Damage is noted on the “proof of delivery” form provided to you for signature by the carrier.
Size
Size is an important consideration for those who like to travel or get up and go at a moment’s notice. Browse the range of options available to see what is best for your needs and lifestyle. Since these supplemental oxygen devices will have to go everywhere with you, you might want them to be as small as possible, or you may need a more powerful one. Be sure to compare each device’s dimensions and oxygen output and consider how you will transport it.
Weight
The weight of a portable oxygen device will vary. Some units can be carried on a patient’s back, while others can be wheeled along the ground. A continuous portable device weighs approximately 17 to 20 pounds, whereas a pulse flow portable alternative can be anywhere from 3 to 10 pounds. You will want to compare options to see which is most manageable for your day-to-day life.
Noise Level
An oxygen concentrator typically has a noise level between 37 and 43dBA. This sounds like a very low hum, much like a refrigerator or the inside of a library. Portable concentrators tend to be quieter than home-based devices, primarily due to the difference in size. It can also depend on the device’s settings. Check the noise level in the specifications of the unit you are considering to see how loud its operation will be.
Warranty
To ensure that the oxygen concentrator is effective and reliable, it will have a warranty, ensuring it can be replaced or repaired by the manufacturer if there is ever an issue. The warranty will typically be three years, although most supplemental oxygen devices have a lifespan far exceeding this. If there is a cheaper model available without a warranty, this adds a risk of incurring future costs of replacing the device should it break.
FAA-Approved
When purchasing a POC, ensure that it is FAA-approved, which means it will be one of the safest and most reliable options. This is an important consideration if you plan on traveling via airplane, as commercial airlines require FAA-approved POCs for patients to fly with them.
At Inspired Portable Oxygen, Superior Customer Service Comes Standard.
The final step in the buying process is choosing where to purchase your portable oxygen concentrator!
With over 25 years of experience in the oxygen industry, Inspired Portable Oxygen is a USA-owned & operated company dedicated to providing your prescribed O2 in a way that improves your quality of life, allowing you to travel and live your life on the go.
Each member of our respiratory staff is both friendly and highly trained, allowing them to carefully help you select the portable oxygen concentrator that meets your oxygen needs.
We also care about our customers’ satisfaction beyond the buying process, which is why we offer continuous service and support for the life of your device.
Ready To Embrace
Oxygen Freedom?
Complete the Form to Request Discount Prices On Inogen, OxyGO & More!
By submitting this information, I authorize Inspired Portable Oxygen to contact me including by phone. Unsubscribe at any time. Privacy Policy
