A 5 LPM or 10 LPM label describes a concentrator’s maximum rated flow. It does not tell you which oxygen prescription you need. Bring the written prescription to the equipment discussion and check that the exact model can meet it.
Start with the prescription
Ask your treating team to specify the flow, delivery interface and hours of use, including whether requirements differ during rest, activity or sleep. Do not increase oxygen because a larger machine can supply it. Home oxygen is a prescribed treatment; equipment selection follows that prescription.
NHS: home oxygen therapy and assessment
Read flow and purity together
Check the manufacturer’s rated flow range and the oxygen concentration specified across that range. A claim of 93% ±3% means a range of 90–96% under the stated conditions; 85–89% would not satisfy that claim. Do not accept reduced purity at maximum rated flow as normal unless it is actually within that model’s published specification. Ask for the current datasheet and the service process for out-of-spec output.
A prescription within a 5 LPM model’s documented range does not automatically require a 10 LPM machine. A prescription exceeding that range requires a suitable higher-capacity system. Future requirements, very low flows, altitude and accessory compatibility need confirmation with the treating team and supplier; there is no universal “one litre of headroom” rule.
Compare the actual purchase and running costs
Use the current quoted model price, GST, included accessories, warranty and service arrangements. A 10 LPM label does not mean that the device costs twice as much. The product and shop pages show current Home Medix prices; confirm the total before ordering.
Electricity estimates need real power in watts, operating hours and your tariff. For example, an illustrative 350 W load used for 18 hours consumes 6.3 kWh. At an illustrative ₹7 per kWh, that is ₹44.10 per day. This is arithmetic, not a Home Medix bench-test result or a measurement of a particular machine. VA is apparent power and cannot be substituted for watts without knowing power factor.
Check the room and backup plan
Compare noise ratings only when the measurement conditions match. Check the manual’s ventilation clearance, allowed tubing, electrical requirements and maintenance instructions. Ask how an outage or equipment fault will be handled and who to call. A second small concentrator is not automatically an equivalent replacement for one higher-flow device.
Configurations that need a separate assessment
A standard concentrator is not, by itself, a high-flow nasal oxygen system. Do not combine oxygen sources, split an outlet between patients or connect oxygen to PAP equipment using an improvised arrangement. The treating team and supplier must confirm the complete prescribed setup and its instructions. Paediatric use also needs an appropriate prescribed flow range and compatible accessories.