Need for Supplemental Oxygen Increases with Age - How Long Should an Oxygen Concentrator Last?

An oxygen concentrator is a medical device that provides the life-saving oxygen everyone needs for life. These devices filter the surrounding air, compress it to the proper density, and then deliver purified oxygen to the individual who needs it. Over 1.5 million people in the United States require supplemental oxygen.

The American Lung Association lists several health conditions that can require supplemental oxygen, either temporarily or long-term:

• A severe asthma attack

• COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)

• Cystic fibrosis

• Pulmonary fibrosis

• Pneumonia

• Sleep apnea

Health Insurance/Medicare Might Cover Some of the Cost

However, oxygen concentrators are not cheap. Oxygen must be prescribed by a doctor to start with before it can be used.  

Health insurance and Medicare may cover some of the cost of an oxygen concentrator as durable medical equipment in some cases.

For example, Medicare Part B will usually cover oxygen if the individual meets certain conditions. Medicare covers oxygen equipment rentals for use in your home, including equipment such as:

• Systems that provide oxygen

• Containers that store oxygen

• Tubing, masks, mouthpieces, and other supplies and accessories that deliver oxygen

• Servicing, maintenance, and repairs of equipment and supplies

Medicare may also cover humidifiers if used along with your oxygen equipment. Medicare also will cover the rental of oxygen concentrators and other oxygen equipment for up to five years, as long as you continue to have a medical need for oxygen therapy.

If the person has Medicare Part B, they can rent the oxygen concentrator from a supplier for 36 months (three years). After that period, your supplier will continue to provide coverage for an additional 24 months (two years).

After five years, a new five-year contract with the same or different supplier. If you own the equipment, Medicare Part B covers the cost of oxygen contents and supplies if all of the following apply:

• Your doctor determines that you are not getting enough oxygen

• Your doctor believes your health might improve with oxygen therapy

• Your arterial blood gas level falls within a certain range

• Other alternative treatments have been tried and failed

You will pay 20 percent of the Medicare-approved amount for the oxygen concentrator after you meet your Part B deductible ($233 per year in 2022 – deductible increases slightly every year).

Medicare.gov details some additional coverage rules for oxygen equipment under certain circumstances.

How Long Will an Oxygen Concentrator Last?

For those reliant on supplemental oxygen, the question of their concentrator's lifespan isn't just a matter of convenience; it's a concern for uninterrupted respiratory support. So, how long can you expect this vital equipment to keep you or a loved one breathing comfortably? Like most things in life, the answer depends on several factors and the type of concentrator you use.

Traditional Oxygen Concentrators: Rugged Reliability

Think of traditional oxygen concentrators as the workhorses of supplemental oxygen therapy. Plugged into a power outlet, these stationary units continuously draw in air, filter out nitrogen, and concentrate the remaining oxygen to prescribed levels. Their lifespan hinges on several variables:

• Age and Weight: The sturdier older models, often heavier due to metal components, boast remarkable longevity. Some estimates suggest an impressive 20,000 hours, roughly translating to over two years of continuous operation.
• Usage Patterns: Frequency of use plays a significant role. While 20,000 hours represents continuous operation, most patients use their concentrators for fewer hours daily, extending their lifespan considerably.
• Environmental Factors: Just like us, oxygen concentrators thrive in cooler, drier environments. High temperatures and humidity can stress the machinery, potentially lowering its lifespan.

While newer models, often lighter and more efficient, may not quite match the older stalwarts in terms of sheer hours, they offer their own advantages. Advanced filtering technology and improved internal components contribute to a respectable lifespan of around 10,000 hours, or well over a year of regular use.

Portable Oxygen Concentrators: Freedom with a Lifespan Caveat

For active individuals seeking mobility, portable oxygen concentrators are a game-changer. These lightweight, battery-powered devices offer freedom and flexibility, allowing users to maintain an active lifestyle. However, their portability comes with a trade-off in terms of lifespan.

• Smaller Size, Shorter Lifespan: The compact design and lightweight materials necessitated by portability translate to a shorter lifespan compared to their stationary counterparts. Most portable oxygen concentrators offer around 2,000 hours of operation, roughly translating to three months of continuous use.
• Usage Patterns Matter: Similar to traditional machines, usage patterns significantly impact lifespan. Occasional users can expect their batteries and internal components to last much longer than those relying on their concentrator daily.

Staying Powered Up: Extending the Lifespan

Regardless of the type you or a loved one use, proper care and maintenance are key to maximizing your oxygen concentrator's lifespan. Regularly replacing filters, cleaning intake vents, and following manufacturer guidelines for operation and storage can significantly lengthen its service.

Ultimately, the lifespan of an oxygen concentrator is a nuanced equation woven from usage patterns, environmental factors, and the inherent longevity of the specific model. While these estimates offer a helpful starting point, consulting a medical professional or medical equipment provider can provide a more personalized assessment based on your unique needs and circumstances.

Additional Points to Consider

• Newer data suggests advancements in technology may extend the lifespans of traditional and portable oxygen concentrators.
• The warranty coverage the manufacturer offers should be factored into your decision-making process.
• The availability of repair services and replacement parts can influence the long-term viability of your chosen concentrator.

Remember, your oxygen concentrator is a lifeline, ensuring your continued well-being. By understanding its lifespan and adopting proper care practices, you can breathe easier knowing it will be there every step of the way.

Additional Resources:

• American Lung Association: https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/pulmonary-fibrosis/patients/living-well-with-pulmonary-fibrosis/living-with-pulmonary
• Mayo Clinic: https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/portable-oxygen-concentrator/
• National Institutes of Health: https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/

Maintenance

Regular maintenance must be performed to lengthen the lifespan of either your traditional home oxygen concentrator or your portable one. Remove dust and any other dirt buildup at least once a month with a soft, damp cloth while the machine is off. You can use cleaning wipes to sanitize it, but do not use ones with alcohol or any harsh chemicals. 

Depending on the brand and machine, the external and internal filters will also need to be consistently replaced. External filters are easy to replace, but you may need a technician to replace the internal filters.

The machine probably came with two accessories that will also need to be cleaned: the tubing and cannula. Since these accessories are in constant contact with the face, they will need to be cleaned daily. 

Wipe the outside of the tubing down every day with an alcohol-free sanitizing wipe similar to what is used to clean the outside of the machine itself. If dirt buildup occurs inside the tubing, it's safer to replace it than to try to clean it.

When to Replace?

When maintenance no longer keeps your machine in working order, it will be time to replace it. You should consider several factors when replacing your machine, such as the noise level, battery life, and warranty. These are some of the most important factors when you pick your first machine when you choose its replacement, so examine your options and choose wisely.

So, how long should an oxygen concentrator last? If you use a traditional home concentrator all day, every day, it will last one to two years based on the model and year. If you use a portable concentrator constantly, which is unlikely, it will last almost three months. Regular maintenance will extend your machines' longevity so you can use them longer. When you can no longer safely maintain them, you'll need to replace them.

Improving Quality of Life

Oxygen therapy can improve a person's health and overall quality of life. Some people hate the idea of using oxygen for a variety of reasons; however, people have found that it gives them more independence, and they soon forget about any embarrassment or hassle of using the device.

Some people will have to monitor their oxygen use closely, including watching for oxygen and carbon dioxide imbalance. Blood tests can be ordered to watch for these concerns.

Don't forget that oxygen is highly flammable. You do not want to smoke while using oxygen or be near someone who is smoking or using some electrical devices such as heating pads.

If a caregiver is helping the care recipient with their oxygen use, they will be trained on how to assist in making sure the equipment is working correctly.

The National Council on Aging provides additional information about Oxygen Concentrators, aging, caregiving on other related health issues.