Choosing a home oxygen concentrator starts with the clinical requirement, not the brand. Home oxygen should be prescribed after appropriate assessment. Once the requirement is known, the shopping task is to find equipment that can reliably meet it.
1. Translate the prescription into equipment requirements
Confirm the prescribed flow, when oxygen is required (for example at rest, during exertion or during sleep), expected hours of use and the intended interface. Do not assume that a diagnosis alone tells you which concentrator to buy.
2. Check continuous flow versus pulse dose
Stationary concentrators commonly provide continuous flow. Many portable systems conserve oxygen by delivering a pulse around inhalation. Pulse settings are device-specific and should not be treated as direct LPM equivalents. Confirm that the delivery mode matches the clinical plan.
3. Read the manufacturer's performance specification
Check rated flow range, oxygen concentration across that range, operating environment, alarm system, duty cycle if specified, power requirement, noise, dimensions and approved accessories. Avoid universal claims such as “all 5 L machines deliver the same purity” because specifications vary.
4. Plan for electricity and failure
A stationary concentrator depends on mains electricity. People who are dependent on oxygen need a clinician-approved contingency for power cuts or equipment faults. The NHS and ATS both emphasize patient/caregiver education and safety as part of home oxygen therapy.
5. Treat fire safety as a buying criterion
Oxygen itself is not a fuel, but an oxygen-enriched environment makes combustion more hazardous. No smoking or open flames should be allowed near oxygen equipment. Keep the unit ventilated and follow the manufacturer and clinical provider's placement instructions.
6. Compare support, not only purchase price
- Written warranty terms
- Local service capability
- Availability of filters, cannulas, tubing and approved humidification accessories
- Turnaround if the unit develops a fault
- Clear manufacturer documentation
7. Compare the current Respmart catalogue
Use the oxygen concentrator collection to compare currently listed models. For travel-focused systems, see portable oxygen concentrators. Respmart can help compare product specifications against an existing prescription; clinical decisions remain with the treating professional.
Frequently asked questions
Should I buy a larger machine “for future use”?
Do not predict a future oxygen requirement yourself. Choose equipment for the documented clinical requirement and discuss expected changes with the treating clinician.
Can a pulse oximeter tell me which concentrator to buy?
No. It provides an estimate of oxygen saturation and has important limitations. It does not diagnose the cause of a low reading or determine a prescription.
Can I change the flow if I feel breathless?
Not unless your clinician has given you a specific plan for doing so.
Related guidance
Related Respmart Knowledge Bank guides
Related Respmart Knowledge Bank guides
Sources and evidence
- American Thoracic Society: Home Oxygen Therapy for Adults with Chronic Lung Disease
- GOLD 2026 COPD Report and Pocket Guide
- NHS: Home oxygen therapy
Medical note: This article is general education, not diagnosis or a prescription. Oxygen is a medical treatment. Use it only as prescribed and do not change flow, duration or delivery mode without the treating clinician. Severe or rapidly worsening breathing difficulty, chest pain, confusion, bluish lips or collapse needs urgent medical care.
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