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A home oxygen concentrator is not ideal for use in a car. These machines depend on the main power outlet. They are also large and heavy. However, some home oxygen concentrator models have features supporting their use in a car.
In this article, you will learn the difference between home and portable oxygen concentrators. We will also give tips for car oxygen use and the best alternative solution.
COPD patients and others using oxygen due to respiratory conditions can choose between oxygen tanks or oxygen concentrators. An oxygen concentrator uses electricity to filter and produce more than 90 % of pure oxygen from the surrounding air.
There are two types of oxygen concentrators: home and portable models. So, what is the difference between a home concentrator and a portable concentrator?
A home or stationary oxygen concentrator is an electronic machine that gives patients supplemental oxygen. The device helps less active persons at home or in hospitals. It also supports the use of CPAP.
A portable oxygen concentrator (POC) is a small-sized oxygen machine that uses battery power. It allows for mobility and portability during oxygen therapy. Most POC models even have FAA approval for use in air travel. Examples include Philips Respironics' SimplyGo, ReadyO2, Inogen G5.
The main difference is that home oxygen concentrators are larger, stationary, and depend on a main power outlet. It outputs in a continuous high flow.
Portable oxygen concentrators are compact, lightweight, and designed for mobility. They have a battery power option output with continuous flow and pulse doses. POC output levels are lower than those of home oxygen concentrators.
It is possible to use a battery inverter to supply a home oxygen concentrator with AC power. However, this oxygen equipment can have limitations when on a road trip. You must consider the following factors when planning to use your home oxygen concentrator in your car.
Home oxygen concentrators mainly run on AC power. You will need a powerful inverter to use in a car, which can strain your car battery.
The oxygen machine also poses some risks when using it in a car. Due to its size, a home oxygen concentrator can fall and cause distraction while driving. The machine is also likely to fail due to lack of power.
Not all vehicles have a DC/AC inverter. Your device power adapter may not be compatible with your car cigarette lighter. Your concentrator power adaptor may also be incompatible with the AC outlet.
Home oxygen concentrators are large-sized and heavier. It makes them less portable and limits their use during some activities. Due to its size, a home oxygen concentrator may not sit well on a car passenger seat. Due to the limited space in the car, the device can cause a lot of inconvenience.
If you need oxygen on the go, a portable oxygen concentrator is the ideal oxygen equipment. POCs are safe and more reliable for use in a car. The device is small and lightweight. However, you must consult your healthcare provider about using oxygen in your vehicle.
You also need to consult your local DMV to confirm your eligibility for driving with an oxygen concentrator.
Since a POC uses a rechargeable battery, it can operate even when your car is not running. There is no risk of downtime in the oxygen supply. However, when using a portable oxygen concentrator in your car, ensure the following:
Have fully charged batteries. It ensures the machine doesn't fail during your road trip if you must stop and turn off the car engine.
Pack the necessary accessories for use with your concentrator in the car. They include
We strictly do not recommend driving while under strong medication or if you have other underlying health issues.
Portable oxygen concentrators' upfront cost is high, but you can get your device from rental companies. So, can you get an alternative POC for use in your car? Yes, the best alternative solution is ReadyO2 Pro.
The portable oxygen concentrator weighs only 1.99kg (4.37 lbs) and produces 93-96% pure oxygen. It outputs between 200 – 1,000ml of oxygen using five pulse doses. ReadyO2 Pro is capable of operating at altitudes of over 14,000 feet.
ReadyO2 Pro portable oxygen concentrator key features for car use:
We must mention that when using any machine, you must take some safety precautions. Always use your POC as per the manufacturer's instructions. You will get the correct dosage, safeguarding your device against damage.
You must observe the following safety tips for driving with an oxygen concentrator.
A home oxygen concentrator is not the ideal oxygen equipment for use in your car. The device can only use a car battery power if you have an inverter.
The best solution for oxygen on the go is a portable oxygen concentrator. The device uses a rechargeable battery and supports AC and car DC chargers. POCs are lightweight and compact, making them easy to carry around.
Portable oxygen concentrators are more costly than home oxygen concentrators. However, you can get an alternative like ReadyO2 Pro for less than $2,000. The model has a high oxygen output level. It has a long battery life, a compact design, and is lightweight.
