
Oxygen concentrators are medical devices that can improve health and quality of life for those who have been prescribed oxygen for conditions like COPD, pulmonary fibrosis, and pneumonia. For on-the-go seniors with oxygen needs, the O2 Concepts Oxlife Independence is our top choice of portable oxygen concentrators that offer continuous flow options. In this review, we’ll explore the many features and benefits of this device. Learn more about why the Oxlife Independence might be the right choice for you here.
About O2 Concepts
O2 Concepts is a leading portable oxygen concentrator (POC) company offering oxygen delivery devices that are used by some of the country’s leading research medical centers, hospital groups, and home care providers. Proudly designed, engineered, and assembled in the United States, O2 Concepts portable oxygen concentrators are known for their durability and extended product life cycles, making them a good choice for those who have high oxygen needs, have variable oxygen needs, or want to use their oxygen concentrator for many years to come.
Oxlife Independence’s unique benefits
What sets the Oxlife Independence apart is that while most portable oxygen concentrators deliver oxygen only in pulse doses, the Oxlife Independence also offers continuous flow settings. While pulse dose oxygen is more efficient and can be sufficient for many with oxygen needs, those with severe conditions or who need a stable amount of oxygen may require continuous flow. Doctors also often recommend continuous flow for use while sleeping, as shallow breathing or apnea could cause a pulse dose machine to alarm and wake up the user. The Oxlife Independence offers the best of both worlds.
Although it is bulkier than some other machines on the market, it remains highly portable with built-in wheels and an extendable handle. With up to 12 settings that deliver up to 3 liters of oxygen per minute (LPM) and the ability to choose between pulse doses or a continuous flow, the O2 Concepts Oxlife Independence is our number one choice for those with high oxygen needs who require continuous flow oxygen but want a machine that allows them to stay active.
O2 Concepts Oxlife Independence: Pros and cons at a glance
Pros | Cons |
Offers both pulse dose and continuous flow oxygen. | One of the largest portable oxygen concentrators on the market, weighing 16.7 pounds and measuring 20.2″ × 10.9″ × 9.45″. |
Two battery slots; batteries can be replaced without powering down the O2 concentrator. | Louder than many other portable oxygen concentrators with a maximum decibel level of 51.8. |
Can be used when plugged into a wall outlet, even when the battery is fully charged. | One of the most expensive machines on the market at $3,195 (with two batteries). |
Machine can operate on AC power even if a battery isn’t installed. | |
12 different pulse dose settings. | |
High oxygen output of 3 LPM on the highest continuous flow setting. | |
Built-in handle and wheels for easy transport. | |
Five-year manufacturer’s warranty on new devices | |
Approved by the FAA for air travel. | |
DNA Technology® device connectivity platform allows the machine to connect digitally with doctors and caregivers. |
Key features and specifications
Dimensions: 20.2″ × 10.9″ × 9.45″
Weight: 16.7 pounds
Battery life: 2.5 hours at 2 LPM on continuous flow; 5.75 hours at pulse setting 2 with 20 breaths per minute (bpm)
Oxygen delivery mode: Pulse or continuous flow
Oxygen flow rate: Between 8 mL and 96 mL per burst in 8 mL increments on pulse dose; between 0.5 and 3 liters per minute (LPM) in 0.5 liter increments
Sound level: 45.5 dBA on pulse setting 2, with a maximum decibel level of 51.8 dBA
Cost: Starting at $2,435 with one battery; $3,195 with two batteries
Additional features of the O2 Concepts Oxlife Independence oxygen concentrator
Although the Oxlife Independence is much bulkier than other portable oxygen concentrators, it has a built-in cart. The machine features two wheels at the bottom and a pull handle that rotates up for transport or down for storage.
The POC features a screen with large, spaced-apart buttons that are easy to push. The display screen shows the number of installed batteries, the power level of each battery, and whether the machine is plugged into an outlet. A button allows you to switch between continuous and pulse modes, and up and down arrows allow you to adjust the flow rate.
The system also displays other messages in the bottom right-hand corner. It will let you know if the machine is warming up and the flow rate and oxygen purity levels are OK. The screen also displays alerts, like low power and no oxygen flow, accompanied by a change in screen color and an alarm. There are three alarm levels with clear messages displayed on the screen:
- High-priority alarms: The screen flashes red, and there is a 10-beep sequence after 2.5 seconds of silence for issues like low oxygen purity.
- Medium-priority alarms: The screen turns amber, and a three-beep sequence repeats after 15 seconds of silence for problems like low external power.
- Low-priority alarms: The screen turns amber, with a beep every 30 seconds for issues like a low battery charge.
The Oxlife Independence from O2 Concepts has two battery slots, so you can power your oxygen concentrator for longer and swap out the batteries without powering the machine off and on again.
This O2 concentrator can also be used when plugged directly into a wall outlet, allowing you to save battery power or run the device on electricity while you sleep at night without having to replace a battery. You can also run the machine when plugged directly into an outlet even if no batteries are installed.
It is equipped with O2 Concepts’ DNA Technology® device connectivity platform. Powered by Verizon, this feature digitally connects your device with doctors. They can remotely monitor the device and provide quick interventions and clinical support, reducing the potential for problems and readmissions for various conditions, including COPD.
O2 Concepts provides some educational resources on their website, but they are not as robust as those of some other brands. There is an informative video, a quick-start guide, user manuals, and a brochure, but you won’t find FAQs, articles, or other videos.
Accessories
The Oxlife Independence comes with most of the accessories you need to use the machine right away. They include:
- One or two batteries.
- AC power supply with power cord.
- DC power supply.
- Extra external air filter.
- User manual.
- Quick-start setup guide.
- Accessory bag.
Many providers, like Main Clinic Supply, also provide a nasal cannula so you can use the portable oxygen concentrator right away, but not all do, which means you may have to purchase one separately.
You will also want to confirm whether the machine you’re purchasing comes with one or two batteries. Some providers, like No Insurance Medical Supplies, only include one battery, but you can buy extra batteries separately.
You can purchase a few additional accessories for the Oxlife Independence that include:
- Desktop charger.
- Protective cover.
- Wheelchair bag.
- Additional AC and DC power cords.
- Additional filters.
- Humidifier strap and tubing that work with any humidifier bottle.
Oxygen delivery modes
The Oxlife Independence gives you the choice between pulse doses and continuous flow, both of which have their benefits. Pulse dose delivery is typically more efficient. Since the machine can conserve oxygen when delivering it as needed, the batteries can run longer. However, pulse dose delivery may not be sufficient or ideal for users with high oxygen needs, severe conditions, apnea, or shallow breathing while sleeping. With the Oxlife Independence, users don’t need to choose between the two device types or purchase two separate machines: Both types are available in one device.
When in pulse mode, the portable oxygen concentrator delivers a bolus, or burst, of oxygen only when the user is inhaling. It has 12 different settings, which is more settings than other portable oxygen concentrators have.
Pulses of oxygen adjust to your breathing rate, or breaths per minute. For example, the portable oxygen concentrator will deliver 32 mL of oxygen per breath on setting 2 with 20 breaths per minute. If your breathing increases to 40 breaths per minute, it will decrease the oxygen per burst to 16 mL. This ensures that you get the fully prescribed amount of oxygen per minute.
In continuous flow mode, the portable oxygen concentrator has six different settings, which isn’t as many as in the pulse dose setting, but the oxygen delivery capabilities are much greater. It delivers between 0.5 LPM and 3 LPM of oxygen, delivering the highest oxygen level of any of the machines we reviewed.
The settings can get confusing if you regularly switch between pulse and continuous modes. The 12 different pulse mode settings don’t indicate the actual oxygen levels delivered through the cannula. Each setting increases by 8 mL increments as follows:
Setting | Milliliters per burst |
0.5 | 8 |
1 | 16 |
1.5 | 24 |
2 | 32 |
2.5 | 40 |
3 | 48 |
3.5 | 56 |
4 | 64 |
4.5 | 72 |
5 | 80 |
5.5 | 88 |
6 | 96 |
In contrast, the six different settings on continuous mode do directly correlate with the oxygen levels delivered through the cannula. Each setting increases by 0.5-liter increments as follows:
Setting | Liters per minute |
0.5 | 0.5 |
1 | 1 |
1.5 | 1.5 |
2 | 2 |
2.5 | 2.5 |
3 | 3 |
Oxygen concentration levels average 91%, with no variation in oxygen purity at different altitudes. This average reflects both pulse and continuous flow modes.
O2 Concepts Oxlife Independence portable oxygen concentrator cost
You can’t purchase an Oxlife Independence portable oxygen concentrator directly from O2 Concepts. Instead, you must buy a machine from a third-party supplier. Here’s how.
Buy it new
Many online retailers sell the Oxlife Independence, but prices are fairly consistent across all providers. Pricing for machines that come with one battery starts at $2,435. Most retailers offer the machine with two batteries for $3,195. You can also find some retailers who offer packages with four batteries for $3,294.50. It’s important to compare prices carefully, as you may be able to get a better deal by purchasing batteries upfront. Most reputable brands also offer financing options, like CareCredit, to make the Oxlife Independence more affordable.
The Oxlife Independence comes with an impressive five-year warranty for new machines. In addition, you get a two-year warranty for the sieve tubes (the filters that separate oxygen from the air), one year on standard accessories, like batteries, and 90 days on optional accessories, like bags, making it one of the most comprehensively covered machines on the market.
Keep in mind that some providers offer additional warranty options. For example, you can upgrade to a lifetime warranty when you purchase your machine from Main Clinic Supply for $975.
Buy a refurbished machine
The O2 Concepts Oxlife Independence portable oxygen concentrator is more expensive than other options, with an average price of $3,195. If you want to save money, consider purchasing a refurbished machine.
For example, you can purchase a certified pre-owned machine from CPAPXchange for just $1,250. O2 Concepts offers a two-year warranty period on refurbished machines, with some outlets offering their own warranties or additional coverage. It’s a good idea to double-check the warranty before you decide where to purchase your refurbished machine.
Rent before you buy
If you aren’t sure if the Oxlife Independence is right for you, consider renting it first. For example, Help Medical Supplies allows you to rent the machine for one month for $449. Renting can be a good way to see if the machine is right for you before purchasing. It can also be handy if you only need a portable oxygen concentrator temporarily while on vacation or recovering from surgery or illness.
Health insurance coverage
Portable oxygen concentrators are classified as durable medical equipment and require a doctor’s prescription. Depending on your circumstances, you may qualify for coverage through health insurance programs like Medicare or Medicaid. It’s important to discuss the specifics of portable oxygen concentrator coverage with both your health care team and insurance provider.
Battery life
One of the best features of the Oxlife Independence is its two separate battery slots, giving you double the battery life without having to switch out batteries. You can also replace batteries without having to power down your portable oxygen concentrator, as it can operate on one battery while you switch out the other one.
Battery times are highly variable depending on whether you’re using one or two batteries and whether you’re using continuous flow or pulse flow. In addition, it’s important to keep in mind that batteries degrade over time. Age and frequent charge cycles will result in less battery life. O2 Concepts recommends replacing the batteries every two years.
Here is a breakdown of the typical battery operating times on the continuous flow setting based on an average of 20 breaths a minute:
Continuous flow | ||
Flow rate setting | One battery | Two batteries |
0.5 | 2 hours 53 minutes | 5 hours 45 minutes |
1 | 2 hours 38 minutes | 5 hours 15 minutes |
1.5 | 1 hour 45 minutes | 3 hours 30 minutes |
2 | 1 hour 15 minutes | 2 hours 30 minutes |
2.5 | 1 hour | 2 hours |
3 | 45 minutes | 1 hour 30 minutes |
Here is a breakdown of the typical battery operating times on the pulse flow setting based on an average of 20 breaths a minute:
Pulse flow | ||
Flow rate setting | One battery | Two batteries |
0.5 | 3 hours 8 minutes | 6 hours 15 minutes |
1 | 3 hours | 6 hours |
1.5 | 3 hours | 6 hours |
2 | 2 hours 53 minutes | 5 hours 45 minutes |
2.5 | 2 hours 23 minutes | 4 hours 45 minutes |
3 | 2 hours | 4 hours |
3.5 | 1 hour 45 minutes | 3 hours 30 minutes |
4 | 1 hour 30 minutes | 3 hours |
4.5 | 1 hour 15 minutes | 2 hours 30 minutes |
5 | 1 hour 8 minutes | 2 hours 15 minutes |
5.5 | 1 hour | 2 hours |
6 | 53 minutes | 1 hour 45 minutes |
Charging options
While the device is plugged into the AC power supply cord and powered off, it typically takes 1.5 hours to charge a single fully discharged battery and approximately 2.5 hours to charge two batteries. You can use the machine and charge the batteries while it’s plugged in, but it will take longer.
The display screen shows the batteries’ charge while they are installed in the machine and indicates whether they are currently charging. If you want to check the charge on extra batteries without having to plug them into the machine, you can do so by pushing a button on the front of the battery. Indicator lights show the charge level in 25% increments.
The machine will alert you when six minutes of battery life are left. The screen will turn amber, display a “Low Battery” message, and beep every 30 seconds until you plug in the machine, replace the battery, or push the power button. There is also a separate depleted battery alert with a red flashing screen and a 10-beep sequence that repeats every 2.5 seconds. The pump shuts down with this alert, and the machine shuts off after 15 seconds. Monitoring your battery life is crucial to prevent your device from shutting down due to a low battery.
The Oxlife Independence O2 machine comes with an AC adapter that plugs directly into a wall outlet and a DC adapter you can use in cars and boats. Note that you can operate your oxygen concentrator only while the vehicle is running.
You can also use the DC adapter to charge your oxygen concentrator, but only on a continuous flow setting below 2 and a pulse mode setting below 4. Charging rates depend on your particular vehicle and other applications that may be drawing power. In addition, the device requires at least 11.7 volts to operate. At 11.6 volts or below, the device will revert to battery power. A start-stop system (when the engine automatically shuts down while idling and restarts when driving) can make operating and charging the device difficult, so you may want to turn off the start-stop feature while your device is plugged in.
You can also purchase a desktop charger that charges the batteries separately from the concentrator. This is handy if you have more than two batteries and want to make sure they’re all charged before leaving the house.
Portability and design
Due to its oxygen delivery capabilities, the Oxlife Independence is quite large compared to other portable oxygen concentrators. It measures 20.2″ × 10.9″ × 9.45″ and weighs 16.7 pounds, making it the largest and heaviest machine on our list. However, it remains one of the lightest continuous flow oxygen concentrators on the market, offering the highest flow rate of any portable machine, giving those with high oxygen needs the ability to remain active without having to deal with bulky oxygen tanks.
The device has two wheels at the bottom and a retractable handle to increase its portability. Wheelchair users can purchase a wheelchair bag to hang the O2 concentrator from the back of a wheelchair without having to pull it alongside themselves.
The Oxlife Independence is also FAA-approved for air travel. Although it’s bulkier than other portable O2 options, it’s still small enough to fit underneath an airline seat. Just make sure you notify the airline carrier 48 hours before your departure and deactivate the cellular connection associated with the DNA Technology® connectivity platform prior to takeoff.
Setup of the O2 Concepts Oxlife Independence portable oxygen concentrator
Operating the Oxlife Independence is relatively intuitive. It comes with a handy quick-start guide that makes it easy to start using your machine. O2 Concepts also has a handy video that shows exactly how to set up and turn on your machine for the first time.
The power port and cannula connector are located at the top of the device so you can easily reach them. Slide the cannula tube over the oxygen port. Then, connect the power cord to the AC power brick before plugging it into the device and then into the wall. Once it is plugged in, you can turn the device on and use it right away, even if the batteries are not installed.
You can insert batteries into the device at any time, even while it is running on AC power, without turning it off first. Simply plug in the batteries, and you can charge them even as you’re using the device. When your batteries are charged, unplug the machine, and it will automatically switch to battery power.
Operation guide and assistance
O2 Concepts’ website has links to the quick-start guide, user manual, warranty information, specifications, and brochure. It also has a resources and brochures page where you can learn more about its machines and patented DNA Technology platform. The news page primarily focuses on company-related announcements, like changes in leadership and participation in tradeshows. Still, it can be a good resource for learning more about O2 Concepts as a company.
Third-party sellers can be a good place to learn more about the Oxlife Independence. For example, the Oxygen Concentrator Store has a blog with helpful articles, like this one that answers frequently asked questions about the Oxlife Independence.
Warranty
O2 Concepts offers a five-year warranty on the Oxlife Independence that starts automatically on the original ship date. They also offer a two-year warranty on sieve tubes, a one-year warranty on standard accessories, like batteries, and a 90-day warranty on optional accessories, like desktop chargers.
They also offer a generous two-year warranty period on refurbished machines, as well as a 90-day warranty on repaired and replaced products and accessories.
If you want additional protection, review retailers carefully, as some offer additional warranty options. For example, Main Clinic Supply allows you to upgrade to a lifetime warranty for an additional $975. Although pricey, it might be worth it if you plan to use your oxygen concentrator for more than five years.
Maintenance and care instructions
The Oxlife Independence portable oxygen concentrator requires very little maintenance. The only thing that requires your regular attention is the air inlet filter. You should wash it in warm, soapy water once a week. O2 Concepts provides an extra air filter with the purchase of their machine, so you don’t have to wait for a filter to dry to use your device. Simply remove the one that needs to be washed and replace it with the second filter. If you would like more than two filters, you can buy more.
You can dust or wipe down the actual machine with a damp cloth. Never spray or soak the case or front panel, and avoid using petroleum-based cleaners or harsh cleaners like alcohol.
All other maintenance must be conducted by an Oxlife Independence service technician to ensure your warranty remains valid. Do not disassemble or attempt a repair without first talking to the provider where you purchased your machine.
Troubleshooting common issues with the Oxlife Independence portable oxygen concentrator
The device’s screen clearly displays alerts for all issues in the bottom right corner. The screen will turn amber or red, depending on the level of the alert. Alerts also come with a series of beeps to get your attention. For example, the low battery alert displays a yellow screen and sounds one beep every 30 seconds when six minutes of battery time are left.
The “No Flow” alarm is an example of a high-level alert: The screen turns red, and a 10-beep sequence sounds every 2.5 seconds. In this case, you should check the cannula connection. If that doesn’t work, you can try replacing the air inlet filter or moving the device to improve airflow.
You can learn more about common alarms and how to address them with this handy troubleshooting guide. If you’re still having trouble or suspect the alarm indicates that your machine needs to be serviced, contact the store where you purchased it. They can help you troubleshoot problems and give you the next steps if your machine needs to be serviced.
Safety considerations
You should never smoke or use any portable oxygen concentrator near flames, as oxygen can cause a spark or fire to spread. For the same reason, you should keep the machine away from flammable materials like grease or oils.
Using a humidifier on your machine can make breathing oxygen more pleasant, but it can also make operating your machine safer if you live in a dry environment. Using a humidifier on your machine and a separate humidifier in your home can decrease the chances of static electricity, which has the potential to create a spark.
You can learn about more oxygen concentrator safety tips here.
Customer service
If you have questions about the Oxlife Independence, start with online retailers. Their sales teams can answer your questions before purchasing and help you troubleshoot problems after you order your machine. They can also help you get the most out of your warranty and provide certified repair services if needed.
You can also contact O2 Concepts directly. They offer both technical and customer support when you call them at 1-877-867-4008. You can also contact them online.
User reviews and testimonials
Reviews and testimonials can be found on retailer websites, but be aware that some retailers group all their product reviews together, so reviews will cover all their oxygen concentrators rather than just the Oxlife Independence. However, these reviews can be helpful when deciding where to purchase your O2 machine, as many address the customer service aspect of buying a concentrator. For example, Main Clinic Supply has nearly 10,000 reviews and a 4.9-star rating, with most reviews mentioning their superior customer service.
If you’re looking for reviews specific to the Oxlife Independence, check out the Oxygen Concentrator Store. Their reviews are specific to the Oxlife Independence machine, with one user explicitly mentioning that it’s much more reliable than other units they have tried. However, reviews are mixed, with some mentioning that their machine didn’t last long and others saying it’s too heavy.
How to buy the Oxlife Independence portable oxygen concentrator
O2 Concepts does not sell their Oxlife Independence portable oxygen concentrator directly, but many online retailers sell the unit. A few reliable retailers to check out include:
Name | Cost | Benefit |
Main Clinic Supply | $3,195.00 | Extended lifetime warranty available |
Oxygen Concentrator Store | $3,195.00 | 4.8 rating on Trustpilot with over 8,000 reviews |
Direct Home Medical | $3,195.00 | 15-day money-back guarantee |
Tri-Med, Inc. | $3,195.00 | Special deals and discounts with the Tri-Med Buyers Club |
LPT Medical | $3,295.00 | Free lifetime technical support |
No Insurance Medical Supplies | $2,435.00 | Lowest price, but comes with only one battery |
Help Medical Supplies | $2,450.00 | Lower price, but comes with only one battery |
RESP NYC | $3,294.50 | Comes with four batteries |
Note: These prices were accurate at the time of publication. The dealer may change prices as they see fit.
Pricing for the Oxlife Independence is relatively consistent across retailers. If you run across a lower price, it’s important to take a closer look. For example, the O2 machine offered by No Insurance Medical Supplies is cheaper than average, but that’s because it comes with only one battery.
If you find a good deal, you’ll also want to look closer to see if the machine is new or refurbished. Buying a refurbished machine isn’t necessarily bad, especially since it can save you money. For example, My Medical Outlet sells a certified refurbished Oxlife Independence machine with two batteries for $1,798.99, but it has a reduced warranty period.
Because pricing is fairly consistent, it is especially important to choose the retailer where you buy your machine carefully. Look for an online store that offers a high level of customer service and research what additional warranties and services they offer.
Final thoughts on the Oxlife Independence portable oxygen concentrator
If you have high oxygen needs but want to remain as mobile as possible, the Oxlife Independence is a great choice. It can deliver up to 3 LPM of oxygen on continuous flow, which is much higher than almost every other portable oxygen concentrator on the market. It also offers the flexibility of multiple pulse flow settings for flexible oxygen delivery that many other machines can’t match. With its built-in wheels and a retractable handle, taking the O2 machine with you when you’re on the go is relatively easy. If you’re looking for a portable oxygen concentrator with a continuous flow option, check out the Oxlife Independence to see if it’s right for you.