All You Need to Know About the Cost of Buying and Using an Oxygen Concentrator

If you find yourself in need of supplemental oxygen, an oxygen concentrator can be a convenient, efficient, and cost-effective solution. Unlike traditional oxygen cylinders, oxygen concentrators are able to generate oxygen by pulling in ambient air, filtering it, and delivering high-purity oxygen to meet your oxygen therapy requirements. If you're new to the idea of using a concentrator, you likely have questions about costs and ongoing expenses like the effect on your power bill. Here’s everything you need to know about the cost of buying and using an oxygen concentrator, including quality factors that affect prices, different types of concentrators, and ongoing electricity usage.

1. How Much Does an Oxygen Concentrator Cost?

The cost of an oxygen concentrator can vary widely depending on the type, brand, and features of the device. Generally, you’ll find that oxygen concentrators fall into two main categories: home oxygen concentrators and portable oxygen concentrators.

Home Oxygen Concentrators A stationary or home oxygen concentrator is typically used by individuals who need oxygen therapy throughout the day or night while at home. These models are larger, designed for stationary use, and can deliver continuous flow oxygen—meaning they provide a steady stream of oxygen rather than pulsed doses.

Home oxygen concentrators of reputable quality range in price from around $1,000 to $1,500.? However there are concentrators that can be found outside of this range depending on their flow rate (usually measured in liters per minute) and oxygen purity level. Before purchasing a less expensive unit, it is recommended to review the technical specifications with your healthcare professional to determine whether it is suitable for your needs.

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Portable Oxygen Concentrators

Portable oxygen concentrators are smaller, lightweight, and can be easily carried or wheeled around, making them a good choice for individuals who need oxygen on the go.? They are also a popular choice for long drives due to their capability of being connected to your vehicle’s 12V power outlet. Most portable units use pulse dose delivery, which provides oxygen in bursts that are timed with your breathing for more efficient delivery. However, there are some models that offer both pulse dose and continuous flow.

Portable oxygen concentrators are more expensive than their home counterparts due to the added convenience and battery technology. Prices for portable concentrators typically range from $3,000 to $5,000, with advanced models sometimes exceeding this range.

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2. Factors Influencing the Cost of an Oxygen Concentrator

Several factors can affect the cost of oxygen concentrators, including:

• Oxygen Flow Rate: Higher flow rates, measured in liters per minute (LPM), normally come with a higher price tag, in particular if you require a continuous flow.
• Oxygen Purity: Most reputable units provide oxygen at purity levels close to 95%, which is ideal for oxygen therapy. Higher purity usually translates to a higher price.? Be wary of cheaper units which may not come close to this purity.
• Battery Life: For portable units, battery life is one of the key factors. Devices with longer battery life and additional battery options often come at a premium.
• Additional Features: Models that offer extra features such as remote control, app compatibility, or adjustable pulse and continuous flow settings, will often come at a higher price point.

3. How Much Does an Oxygen Concentrator Cost to Use?

Once you’ve purchased an oxygen concentrator, you will need to consider the ongoing costs associated with using the device, specifically electricity consumption.

Electricity Consumption of Home Oxygen Concentrators

Home oxygen concentrators are powered by electricity, and the impact on your power bill depends on the model’s flow rate and how often it’s used. A typical home concentrator uses between 200 to 400 watts of electricity per hour. Assuming continuous usage, this would equate to approximately 4.8 to 9.6 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per day.

To calculate the approximate monthly cost of using a home oxygen concentrator, multiply the daily usage (in kWh) by 30 days and then by your local electricity rate (measured in cost per kWh). For example, if your electricity rate is $0.12 per kWh and your concentrator uses 300 watts per hour, your monthly electricity cost would be around $25–$35.

Electricity Consumption of Portable Oxygen Concentrators

Portable oxygen concentrators are designed to be energy-efficient, but they still require recharging and can run on your home electricity. The amount of electricity needed to recharge the battery is relatively low compared to a home unit. Portable models often come with the option to charge in a car, which may reduce home electricity costs and comes in handy for extended road trips. Battery life varies significantly by model, ranging from an hour up to 10 hours depending on the flow rate, usage and whether the device is in continuous or pulse mode.

4. Long-Term Savings with Oxygen Concentrators

While the upfront cost of an oxygen concentrator may seem high, they offer significant savings over time, especially for individuals who need oxygen therapy on a regular basis. Unlike oxygen cylinders that need to be refilled and come with rental fees, oxygen concentrators only require electricity to operate, which is generally much more economical than regular oxygen cylinder costs. For those on long-term oxygen therapy, this will usually lead to substantial savings over the years.

5. Key Considerations When Choosing an Oxygen Concentrator

Selecting the right oxygen concentrator for your needs involves understanding the following key features:

• Continuous Flow vs. Pulse Dose: Continuous flow models are typically used for home oxygen therapy and provide a steady stream of oxygen. Pulse dose models, more common in portable devices, deliver oxygen in bursts and are more efficient for use on the go.
• Oxygen Purity: Most medical oxygen concentrators provide oxygen with a purity level of 90-95%, which is sufficient for therapeutic use.
• Flow Rate (Liters per Minute): The higher the flow rate, the more oxygen the device delivers. Consult with your healthcare provider to determine the appropriate flow rate for your needs.
• Battery Life: For portable oxygen concentrators, battery life is crucial if you plan to be away from a power source. Models with higher battery capacities or the option to add external batteries can be worth the investment.

6. Is Buying or Renting Better?

For some users, particularly those who need oxygen therapy temporarily, renting an oxygen concentrator may be a good option. Monthly rental costs range from $100 to $600, depending on the model, service provider and support. However, for long-term users, buying a concentrator is often more economical in the long run, as rental costs can add up quickly over time.? Some providers also offer a Rent to Buy solution, which can be a practical solution for those who are unsure.? If you wish to explore these options, you can view our Rent to Buy option here and explore our rental concentrator options below.

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7. Summary

When considering an oxygen concentrator, weigh both the upfront cost and the ongoing expenses like electricity consumption and rental fees. While oxygen concentrators can be a substantial investment, they offer long-term savings, convenience and can drastically improve your quality of life when used under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Whether you choose a home oxygen concentrator or a portable oxygen concentrator, understanding the device's features, energy consumption, and overall cost will help you make an informed decision and ensure you’re selecting the right concentrator for your oxygen therapy needs.

Mega Medical - Australia’s leading product & maintenance supplier of medical gas & resuscitation equipment.

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