Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POCS) are a lifesaver for oxygen users. They offer invaluable breathing freedom, especially while sleeping. But you need to know about its battery life to keep enjoying that independence.
Interested in learning the runtime? This blog will cover the details and also discuss the main factors that quickly drain the battery. It will help you plan your activities and ensure you receive constant oxygen therapy.
POC Runtime Explained: What to Expect from Your Portable Oxygen Concentrator?
Portable Oxygen concentrator’s runtime refers to how long your portable oxygen concentrator can operate on a fully charged battery. This duration isn’t fixed—it changes based on the device model, settings, and battery capacity.
Most standard POCs run anywhere from 2 to 6 hours on a single battery, while double battery options may extend usage to 8 to 13 hours or more. The higher the oxygen flow setting, the faster the battery drains, as the machine works harder to supply oxygen.
Pulse flow generally lasts longer than continuous flow, because oxygen is released only when you inhale. External conditions, like extreme heat or cold, can also impact runtime. Understanding these variables helps you plan daily activities and ensure uninterrupted therapy.
What To Expect From Its Battery Life?
POC battery’s runtime varies significantly. It largely depends on the model, battery, size, and usage settings:
Typical Range: Most standard single batteries on a single charge provide an operational time. This ranges from 2 to 6 hours.
Double Batteries: Several models offer double battery options, which can drastically extend the runtime. Often for 8 to 13 hours or more on the lowest settings.
Lithium-ion Technology: Modern batteries are much better than the traditional versions. These use lithium-ion ones. They are famous for their high-energy density and comparatively lightweight design.
What Factors Drain Battery Faster?
Despite the battery type, not all hours are equal. Several factors drain a portable oxygen concentrator’s battery faster. They are as follows:
Oxygen Flow Setting
Oxygen flow setting is the biggest factor. The higher the required oxygen flow rate, the harder the device compressor has to work. This pressure results in fast battery exhaustion.
Flow Type
Portable oxygen concentrators have two flow types. It plays a vital role in battery drainage:
Pulse Flow: When the user inhales, this delivers oxygen in short bursts only. This is extremely energy-efficient and provides longer battery life.
Continuous Flow: The continuous model delivers a steady oxygen stream. Since the machine is continuously working, it needs more, leading to a shorter runtime.
Battery Condition and Age
POC batteries also undergo natural degradation over time, like all rechargeable batteries. After 300 to 500 charge cycles, you should expect a noticeable reduction in the battery’s maximum capacity. The same goes for the total runtime, too.
Environment’s Temperature
In what environment will you operate POC? Is that extremely hot or cold? Because that can negatively impact the battery’s longevity and performance.
If temperatures are high, that accelerates battery drainage and causes overheating.
Whenever you want portable oxygen concentrators, feel free to get in touch with Fountain Circle Medical. They are experts and provide you with the best oxygen supplier.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical battery life for a POC on a single charge?
The average runtime for a standard single POC battery is generally 2 to 6 hours.
What is the biggest factor that drains a POC battery quickly?
The Oxygen Flow Setting is the most significant factor.
