Regularly cleaning your oxygen concentrator is important and highly recommended. Just as cleaning your other household appliances reduces germ and bacteria buildup, cleaning your oxygen concentrator helps to prevent infection and helps maintain peak performance of your machine. Follow these simple steps to ensure you are taking proper care of your equipment.
How to Clean the Outside of the Oxygen Concentrator
- Unplug the machine.
- Wipe down the outside of your oxygen concentrator with a damp soapy cloth and warm water.
- Rinse with a damp cloth and clean water.
- Check the air vents for dust and debris. Use a cotton swab to clean the vents.
- Let the oxygen concentrator air dry.
How to Clean an Oxygen Concentrator Filter
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for removing the filter.
- Dip the filter into a bath of warm water and mild dish soap.
- Use a damp cloth to thoroughly clean any excess dirt or dust.
- Rinse the filter with clean water to remove excess soap.
- Let the filter completely air dry before returning it to the machine.
How Often Should You Clean an Oxygen Concentrator Filter?
Most concentrator filters require routine inspection once a week. They can be brushed dry to remove any dirt or dust particles. If excessively dirty, wash with warm, soapy water and let dry completely before reinstalling.
Some devices may have multiple filters that require maintenance. For the most accurate cleaning and care tips for your oxygen concentrator filter, reference your device’s user manual.
How to Clean Nasal Cannula
- Soak the nasal cannula in a bath of warm, soapy water.
- Rinse the cannula with a solution of water and white vinegar (a ratio of 10-1).
- Let the nasal cannula air dry completely before using
Other Good Cleaning Practices that can be used on an Oxygen Concentrator
- Try not to use your oxygen concentrator in a dusty room. Dust will make the particle filter get dirtier sooner.
- Clean your particle filter monthly.
- Clean the outside of the oxygen concentrator weekly.
- Use alcohol wipes to clean the outside of the tubing connecting the nasal cannula daily.
- Replace your nasal cannulas and tubing monthly when using your your oxygen concentrator regularly.
Should I Clean My Portable Oxygen Concentrator More Often?
Because portable oxygen concentrators leave the home and may encounter dirtier outside environments, you may need to clean your portable machine more frequently. Try not to take your portable oxygen concentrator outside when there are high concentrations of pollen in the air or during air pollution alerts. The excessive particles in the air will put a strain on the filter and the machine. If you must venture out in these conditions, be sure to follow the same cleaning procedures as a home oxygen concentrator.
How Often Should an Oxygen Concentrator Be Serviced?
Most oxygen concentrators have a service life of 2-3 years. After that, some models require replacement of certain component parts. These replacements can typically only be done by authorized repair centers or technicians. Attempting to service the oxygen concentrator yourself may void your device’s warranty.
For oxygen concentrator replacement supplies or questions about cleaning your machine, our knowledgeable staff can be reached at 888-941-1688 or via email at contact@oxygenconcentratorsupplies.com.
2 Comments. Leave new
if you have had toxigenic mold in your house, do you have to throw away the machine due to mycotoxins
Hi Sara,
Toxic mold does not sound fun! Your machine will definitely need a deep cleaning and we suggest replacing all filters, tubing, and cannulas. If you are still concerned, contact your doctor directly. Hopefully this helps! Any other questions, feel free to contact us at 888-941-1688.