Runtime by power station size: Home oxygen concentrator (5 L/min)
| Power station size | Typical runtime | Realistic range |
|---|---|---|
| 300 Wh | 51 min | 0.6–1.0 h |
| 500 Wh | 1 h 25 min | 1.1–1.7 h |
| 1,000 Wh | 2 h 50 min | 2.1–3.4 h |
| 1,500 Wh | 4 h 15 min | 3.2–5.1 h |
| 2,000 Wh | 5 h 40 min | 4.3–6.8 h |
| 3,000 Wh | 8 h 30 min | 6.4–10.2 h |
How much power a concentrator uses
Home (stationary) concentrators run a compressor non-stop, so their draw is steady: typically 250–400 W for a 5 L/min unit, less for smaller models and more for 10 L/min units. Check the label or manual for your model's watts. Unlike a fridge it never cycles off, so runtime is simply usable watt-hours divided by its watts.
The compressor has a modest startup surge (around 600 W), so a station with at least 500 W of continuous output, and ideally 1,000 W, starts it reliably.
Size for the outage you need to cover
| Hours of oxygen needed | Capacity needed (at 300 W) |
|---|---|
| 4 hours | about 1,400 Wh |
| 8 hours (overnight) | about 2,800 Wh |
| 24 hours | about 8,500 Wh (a large expandable system) |
Battery-powered portable oxygen concentrators use much less power than stationary units, and many can be recharged from a power station's DC or AC outlets. Ask your supplier whether one suits your prescription.
Build an outage plan
- Ask your supplier what backup they provide, how many hours it covers, and how to get more in an emergency.
- Tell your electric utility. Many keep a medical-needs or priority list and may notify you of planned outages.
- Keep the power station fully charged, and test it with your concentrator a few times a year.
- Plan how you'll recharge it: solar panels, a car, or a generator run safely outdoors. See the solar recharge time calculator.
- Know where you would go for power if the outage lasts longer than your backup.
Never use oxygen near open flames or smoking, and keep the concentrator's air vents clear. If you also use a CPAP, see how long a power station runs a CPAP.