The DeVilbiss 10 Liter Oxygen Concentrator is a lightweight, high-volume device that delivers 87% to 96% oxygen purity at flow rates ranging from 2 to 10 liters per minute. Weighing only 42 pounds, it’s a practical choice for those needing a reliable oxygen supply at home. However, like any medical device, it can encounter occasional issues. This guide provides common troubleshooting tips to help you keep your oxygen concentrator running efficiently.
Common Troubleshooting Scenarios
1. Device Not Turning On
If the concentrator doesn’t power on when you flip the switch, the issue is likely related to the power supply.
Possible Causes:
Situation 1: Power Cord Not Properly Inserted
A loose power cord is often the culprit. You may also hear an alert in some cases.
Solution: Check the cord connection at the wall outlet and the back of the unit (for 230-volt models). Ensure it is properly plugged in.
Situation 2: No Power at Wall Outlet
If the cord is correctly inserted but the unit remains off, the wall outlet may be faulty.
Solution: Test the device in another outlet or reset the home circuit breaker if needed.
Situation 3: Activation of Oxygen Circuit Breaker
Power issues may sometimes trip the oxygen concentrator’s circuit breaker.
Solution: Press the reset button located below the power switch and try again.
2. Failure in Operation
If the concentrator is running but not functioning properly, it could be due to several reasons.
Situation 1: Blocked Air Filter
A dirty or clogged air filter can trigger the red "Service Required" light and sound an alert.
Solution: Clean the air filter every 7 days with mild soap and warm water.
Situation 2: Blocked Exhaust
A blocked exhaust can also lead to poor performance.
Solution: Ensure nothing is obstructing the exhaust, like walls, curtains, or furniture.
Situation 3: Blockages in Face Mask, Cannula, or Tubing
A kink or obstruction in the oxygen delivery system can reduce airflow.
Solution: Disconnect and check the mask, cannula, or tubing for blockages. Clean or replace as needed.
Situation 4: Defective or Blocked Humidifier Bottle
Humidifier bottles can become blocked or defective over time.
Solution: Clean or replace the humidifier bottle according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Situation 5: Low Flow Meter Setting
If the yellow "Low Oxygen" light is on, the flow meter may be set too low.
Solution: Adjust the flow meter to the prescribed setting (up to 6 LPM when filling an oxygen bottle).
3. Yellow Low Oxygen Indicator
If the yellow "Low Oxygen" indicator is illuminated, the unit may still be in start-up mode.
Situation 1: Start-Up Mode
The yellow light is normal during the unit’s start-up period.
Solution: Wait up to 15 minutes for the unit to stabilize.
4. Low Sound Frequency
A low sound frequency could indicate an issue with the electronic system.
Situation 1: Malfunction in Electronic Assembly
An electronic failure is possible but may require professional assistance.
Solution: Contact your Drive DeVilbiss provider for help with electronic malfunctions.
What Is an Oxygen Concentrator?
An oxygen concentrator is a medical device designed to supply additional oxygen by filtering ambient air. It removes nitrogen from the air and delivers nearly pure oxygen, typically between 90%-95%. Unlike oxygen tanks, which require refilling, oxygen concentrators continuously extract oxygen from the surrounding air, ensuring a steady supply of enriched oxygen.
Oxygen concentrators are widely used to treat patients suffering from conditions that lead to low oxygen levels in the blood, such as:
Asthma
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
Lung cancer
COVID-19
Sleep apnea
Heart failure
Cystic fibrosis
Bronchitis
Benefits of Using an Oxygen Concentrator
Continuous Oxygen Supply: Unlike traditional oxygen tanks, concentrators draw from ambient air and never run out of oxygen, ensuring a reliable source for long-term use.
Improved Quality of Life: Patients with respiratory conditions such as COPD, asthma, or lung disease often experience better overall health and energy levels with the use of an oxygen concentrator.
Portable and Convenient: Modern concentrators are lightweight and can be used at home, making them highly portable and easy to transport. The DeVilbiss 10L, for example, weighs only 42 pounds.
Cost-Effective: Since there is no need to refill tanks, oxygen concentrators are more economical in the long term.
Customizable Flow Rates: They offer adjustable flow rates, allowing patients to set the device to their prescribed oxygen levels, ensuring optimal therapy.
Safety and Efficiency: With built-in alarms and safety features, oxygen concentrators provide alerts if oxygen purity drops, ensuring that patients always receive the correct concentration.
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Final Thoughts
If you encounter any problems with your DeVilbiss 10L Oxygen Concentrator, the troubleshooting tips mentioned above should help you resolve the issue. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning air filters and checking for blockages in tubing, face masks, and exhaust areas, can prevent many common malfunctions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. How often should I clean or replace the air filter on my DeVilbiss 10L Oxygen Concentrator?
It is recommended to clean the air filter every 7 days using mild dish soap and warm water. Regular cleaning ensures optimal performance and prevents the device from becoming clogged. If the air filter shows signs of wear, replace it according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Q2. What should I do if my DeVilbiss 10L Oxygen Concentrator isn’t turning on?
First, check if the power cord is properly connected to both the wall outlet and the back of the unit. If the cord is securely plugged in and the unit still doesn't turn on, try using a different outlet or reset your home's circuit breaker. If none of these steps work, press the concentrator’s circuit breaker reset button and contact your provider if the issue persists.
Q3. Why is the yellow "Low Oxygen" light illuminated on my DeVilbiss 10L Concentrator?
The yellow "Low Oxygen" light may turn on during the unit's start-up phase, which can take up to 15 minutes. If the light remains on beyond that time, it may indicate that the flow meter is set too low or that there’s an obstruction in the oxygen delivery system. Ensure the flow meter is adjusted to the prescribed rate and check for blockages in the cannula, tubing, or mask.
Q4. What can cause the "Service Required" light and audible alarm to activate?
The "Service Required" light and audible alarm can activate due to various reasons such as a blocked air filter, exhaust blockage, or an issue with the mask, cannula, or oxygen tubing. Check these components for blockages or kinks. If the problem persists after troubleshooting, contact your oxygen provider for assistance.
Q5. How do I resolve a blocked humidifier bottle on the DeVilbiss 10L Oxygen Concentrator?
If the humidifier bottle is blocked or defective, detach it from the oxygen outlet and inspect it for blockages. Clean the humidifier regularly according to the manufacturer’s instructions, and replace it if necessary. Routine cleaning and proper maintenance can prevent blockages and extend the life of the humidifier bottle.
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