Being prescribed oxygen therapy can feel overwhelming, especially when you are faced with a range of unfamiliar equipment options. The right oxygen concentrator depends on your medical needs, lifestyle, living situation, and budget — and making the wrong choice can affect your health and quality of life.
This guide is designed to give patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals a clear framework for selecting the most appropriate device. At Oxyfix, we work with all major brands and models, so our advice is based on experience rather than a sales agenda.
Stationary vs Portable Oxygen Concentrators
Stationary (Home) Concentrators
These are the standard choice for patients who require oxygen therapy primarily at home. They plug into the wall and deliver a continuous, reliable flow of oxygen — typically between 1 and 10 litres per minute (LPM).
Best for: patients with high oxygen requirements, continuous therapy users, palliative care, and retirement or care facilities.
Common models: Philips Respironics EverFlo, Invacare Platinum, DeVilbiss 5-litre series.
Portable Oxygen Concentrators
Portable concentrators are battery-powered and designed for active patients who need oxygen on the go. They are smaller, lighter, and FAA-approved for airline travel. Most operate on a pulse-dose delivery system, though some offer continuous flow at lower rates.
Best for: active patients, frequent travellers, and those requiring supplemental oxygen only during exertion.
Common models: Inogen One G5, Philips Respironics SimplyGo, Caire FreeStyle Comfort.
Continuous Flow vs Pulse Dose
This is one of the most important distinctions to understand:
- Continuous flow delivers a steady stream of oxygen regardless of your breathing pattern. It is required for patients with high flow needs or those who breathe through their mouth.
- Pulse dose (on-demand) delivers a burst of oxygen only when the device detects an inhalation. This is more energy-efficient and common in portable devices, but not suitable for all patients.
Always confirm with your pulmonologist or respiratory therapist which delivery mode has been prescribed before purchasing or renting a device.
Flow Rate Requirements
Your prescribed flow rate (measured in LPM) will largely determine which device is appropriate. Most home concentrators deliver 1–5 LPM, while high-flow models reach 8–10 LPM for patients with more severe needs.
Never purchase a device that cannot meet your prescribed flow rate, even during peak demand such as activity or sleep.
New vs Refurbished Concentrators
Cost is a real consideration for South African patients, many of whom fund oxygen therapy out of pocket or through medical aid schemes with limited benefits. A professionally refurbished concentrator from a reputable provider can offer significant savings without compromising safety — provided it has been properly serviced and tested.
At Oxyfix, any refurbished unit we supply has undergone a full 14-point inspection, with certified oxygen purity output and new sieve beds where necessary. We provide a written condition report with every unit.
Questions to ask before buying refurbished:
- Has the oxygen purity been independently tested and documented?
- Have the sieve beds been replaced or assessed?
- Does the unit come with a service warranty?
- What is the running hour count on the compressor?
Key Questions to Ask Your Doctor
Before finalising your choice, confirm the following with your prescribing physician:
- What is my prescribed flow rate, and does it change during sleep or activity?
- Do I need continuous flow or is pulse dose appropriate for my condition?
- How many hours per day will I require oxygen therapy?
- Are there any airline or travel requirements I need to plan for?
- Does my condition require high-flow therapy now, or is it likely to change?
After You Have Your Concentrator: Ongoing Servicing
Whichever device you choose, regular professional servicing is non-negotiable. Oxygen concentrators are medical devices, and their output degrades over time. At Oxyfix, we recommend a full service every 6–12 months or every 2,000 hours of operation.
We service all major brands across South Africa, with nationwide courier collection, 1–3 day turnaround, and loan units available while your device is with us.
Conclusion
Choosing the right oxygen concentrator comes down to three things: your medical prescription, your lifestyle, and the quality of after-sales support you can access. Get the first two right with your healthcare team, and let Oxyfix take care of the third.
Have questions about a specific model or need advice on servicing your existing device? Get in touch with our team — we are always happy to help.
Fast turnaround, certified technicians, and loan units available across South Africa.