Everything you Need to Know About Keeping Your Portable Oxygen Concentrator Battery in Great Condition
Portable oxygen concentrators (POCs) have revolutionized respiratory therapy by offering users mobility and freedom without compromising oxygen delivery. In this blog post, we'll explore factors that impact battery life and offer tips to maximize usage time.
Lesley Williams, a Registered Respiratory Therapist at Apria with 35 years of experience, states, "These devices rely on rechargeable batteries to power them, making it crucial for users to understand how to maintain and prolong battery lifespan. Battery life varies among POC models, typically ranging from 2.5 to 6 hours on a full charge."
Understanding Battery Life
Some units offer extended battery options, providing up to 12 hours of usage. Like all rechargeable batteries, POC batteries have a limited lifespan and will gradually lose their ability to hold a charge over a period of time.
Factors Affecting Battery Lifespan
1. Recharge Cycles
The battery's capacity diminishes with each recharge cycle. Manufacturers typically specify the number of charging cycles a battery can endure before seeing reduced battery life. It's essential to consult the user manual and plan for battery replacement with the manufacturer accordingly.
2. Charging Habits
Following manufacturer guidelines for charging is critical. Overcharging or undercharging can significantly impact overall battery life. Some manufacturers recommend allowing the battery to fully drain before recharging, while others advise against it. Adhering to prescribed charging methods is essential for optimal battery performance.
3. Prescription Settings
Your prescribed oxygen flow rate directly influences battery usage. Higher flow rates and continuous flow oxygen will drain the battery faster than lower flow rates or pulse dose delivery methods. Adjusting your settings or consulting with your healthcare provider may help optimize battery usage.
4. Storage Conditions
Proper storage is vital for maintaining battery health—store batteries in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Avoid storing batteries in freezers, as this can degrade battery performance.
5. Travel Considerations
Air travel can impact battery life due to changes in air pressure. Extended travel periods may necessitate purchasing comprehensive battery options or carrying backup batteries to ensure an uninterrupted oxygen supply during travel.
For more information: Traveling on Oxygen Therapy.
Maintaining battery health is essential for ensuring uninterrupted oxygen therapy with portable oxygen concentrators. By understanding the factors that impact battery life and implementing proper care practices, users can prolong battery lifespan and enjoy reliable mobility and freedom in their respiratory therapy. If you notice a significant deterioration in battery performance, contact the manufacturer for replacement options to ensure the continued efficacy of your POC.
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References
“Portable Oxygen Concentrators Battery Life” Inogen, March 8, 2023.
“Proper Maintenance of Portable Oxygen Concentrators” Oxygen Always, April 15, 2021.
Ridl, Scott. “How to Care for and Maintain Your Concentrator Batteries” Oxygen Concentrator Store Blog, April 15, 2013.
Zaydee, Azha. “How to Extend the Use of an Oxygen Concentrator?” VARON, February 8, 2024.
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