In this blog, I’ll show you how to soundproof an oxygen concentrator in great detail. Soundproofing an oxygen concentrator can be done in a variety of methods, some of which are extremely affordable.
While producers prioritise the functionality of electronic medical equipment, patients’ experiences with the technology must also be taken into account. Medical gadgets that make a lot of noise might have a detrimental impact on a patient’s quality of life.
For a patient with severe to mild respiratory disorders who finds it difficult to breathe in the open air, an oxygen concentrator is a must-have tool. These oxygen-providing kits can be found in hospitals, homes, and the pockets of many patients. Unfortunately, oxygen concentrators make a squeaky, hissing, or rattling noise that can be highly irritating to those around you.
So, if you’re utilising an oxygen concentrator that makes a loud, obnoxious noise, it’s time to do something about it. Even if you know how to filter out sounds without earplugs, soundproofing your oxygen concentrator is still a good idea.
How to soundproof an oxygen concentrator?
Soundproofing an oxygen concentrator can be accomplished in a variety of ways. Here are some of the most effective ways to keep them quiet.
Tightening The Case And Internal Parts
Creating a Smoother Surface
Solving Muffler Issues
Placing it on A Smoother Surface
Positioning in the Room
Why Does the Oxygen Concentrator Make A Sound?
Oxygen concentrators take in ambient air and convert it to breathable, pure oxygen. The older type of oxygen concentrators used rubber vibration mounts for the compressor. The compressor’s sounds and vibrations are absorbed by the rubber mounts. When the rubber breaks down, it makes hissing and cracking noises.
The compressors on the later ones are mounted on a spring. This makes it quieter, but it’s still not quite enough. The motor is the main offender in this case. Only a small amount of noise is produced by the portable oxygen concentrator. Home oxygen concentrators, on the other hand, contain larger internal parts and provide a high flow of oxygen. The more sound there is, the higher the flow rate.
So, lowering the flow rate can lessen the noise, but if you already have an oxygen concentrator, you’ll have to work on that.
People have been looking for solutions to soundproof their oxygen concentrators for a variety of reasons. Oxygen concentrators can emit sounds ranging from 30 to 70 decibels, depending on the situation. But here’s the thing: there are some measures you take to make them go away.
Tightening The Case And Internal Parts
As the oxygen concentrator ages, the case protecting the internal parts may become loose. A series of screws connect the case to the motor. It connects the motor to the case, which is supported by several springs.
As a result, it begins to create noises when the screws are not properly attached to the case, or when the case is cracked for any cause. When the springs break, the motor continues to knock against the case, making obnoxious noises.
If that’s the case, you’re in for a nightmare situation. The only method to correct this is to tilt the device to the side where the hinges are still in good condition. You can change the case with a new one that contains pads if it is damaged.
Placing it on A Smoother Surface
The engine shakes on the springs, as we already know. As a result, putting the machine on the hardwood will amplify the noises. As a result, we should lay it on a softer surface. In this scenario, we can use one of the following:
- Multiple rugs
- A piece of fabric
- A piece of cardboard
- A thick carpet
- Dish Sponge
These oxygen concentrators also make a vibrating noise. A thick soundproof rug, or any rug, with multiple layers under it will help a lot. Layers of rugs can help make your room soundproof by absorbing low-Frequency sounds as they move over the ground.
Textured and thick carpets are preferred over thin rugs because they provide additional padding. Placing down multiple layers of carpets significantly reduces the sound produced by the oxygen concentrator.
The majority of the structural noise will be absorbed by heavy carpets or rugs which will also reduce the sound of the oxygen concentrator and enhance the audibility of your room.
It would not only improve the aesthetics, but it will also aid to absorb vibrations from it. They’ll dampen the majority of the concentrator’s vibrations and noise.
| Materials Needed | Tools Needed |
| carpet | Non-slip area rug padCarpet tapeCarpet Cutter |
| rugs |
Solving Muffler Issues
Mufflers are built into many of this equipment. The muffler will create a lot of noise if something goes wrong with it. That is, after all, a repair issue. The only method to lessen the noise from the environment in this scenario is to move the oxygen concentrator further away. As a result, we can put it in a corridor or another room. In this instance, we merely require additional oxygen tubing.
If the muffler assembly is in good working order, turn it slightly so that the ends of the plastic tie wraps do not come into touch with anything. The case and motor are completely encased in medium-density acoustic foam, except for the bottom plate. A little fibreglass insulation on the interior of the bottom on both sides of the compressor should be able to help as well.
But not so much that the fan blades on both ends of the compressor are blocked. If you’re unable to do so, concentrate on the external dampening.
| Materials Needed |
| fibreglass insulation |
Placing it on A Smoother Surface
Because many of these devices vent from the bottom, make sure there’s adequate space for the air to pass. Almost all of the noise originates from the bottom. So dampen it and divert it so that the airflow is not obstructed.
- Adding a few layers of cotton towels or wool blankets beneath the mattress can significantly help.
- Place a short length of the thick board under the left side and another under the right side of the machine to raise it about 1′′ or 12″ above the blanket layers.
- A clean dish sponge is placed under each tyre on top of the boards and secured with carpet tape.
- The six layers of wool blanket absorb a lot of noise, and the sponges may be able to absorb any vibrations from the wheels.
| Materials Needed |
| cotton towels |
| wool blankets |
| thick board |
| dish sponge |
Positioning in the Room
This is a crucial point to remember. These concentrators emit a low-frequency sound similar to that of a speaker’s bass notes. The acoustics will deteriorate if the unit is placed against a wall or in a hard corner of a room. Maintain a distance of at least one foot between the object and any walls.
Soft padding Foam or wool on vertical surfaces near the unit, or a chair seat pad, can also help to reduce sound reflections.
| Materials Needed |
| Soft padding Foam |
Conclusion
For some people, an oxygen concentrator is a must-have item. On a routine basis, some individuals are close to it. Some people bring it with them while they are in crowded places.
As a result, the oxygen concentrator’s noise can be exceedingly disturbing for both the patient and those nearby. It’s critical to understand how to soundproof an oxygen concentrator.
Redirecting sound from the machine’s bottom and enhancing stability inside the enclosure will go a long way toward reducing any noise generated by the oxygen concentrator. So that you can get a good night’s sleep while getting adequate oxygen into your lungs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): How to soundproof an oxygen concentrator?
Why is my oxygen concentrator making such a racket?
As a result of the machine’s interior heat, the rubber will shred, split, or sag over time. The internal compressor will rub or shake against the machine’s chassis, causing the concentrator to rattle and hum. Larger oxygen concentrators with quieter spring motor mounts have the potential to be significantly quieter.
Is it true that portable oxygen concentrators are noisy?
This is a noisy process, and many oxygen concentrators are fairly loud, lowering your quality of life. In general, portable oxygen concentrators can be as loud as 50dBA, which is comparable to a large workplace, a major home appliance, or a domestic conversation.
Is it possible to utilise an oxygen concentrator with a surge protector?
For the concentrators and relay boxes, do not utilise power surge protectors. Every 3-6 months, clean the exterior filters of your oxygen concentrators.
When I’m on oxygen, can I use an electric blanket?
When wearing your cannula, never use hot pads or electric blankets. Even if you expect to use it again in a few minutes, turn off your oxygen while you aren’t using it. When oxygen is flowing, do not place the cannula on your bed or any other surface. When using oxygen, stay away from all electronic devices.
Is it true that oxygen concentrators produce heat?
Oxygen concentrators that overheat are most likely faulty or not performing at their best. Although most oxygen concentrators produce heat, they should not create a significant increase in room temperature and should not be uncomfortably hot to touch.
What is a safe level of oxygen for the elderly?
The usual oxygen saturation level is 97-100 percent, however, older people’s levels are typically lower than younger people’s. A normal oxygen level for senior persons over the age of 70 is around 95%, which is considered acceptable. Low oxygen levels can cause hypoxemia or hypoxia in extreme situations.
Are oxygen concentrators in the home noisy?
Yes, all oxygen concentrators produce a certain level of decibel-level noise. Oxygen concentrators have become significantly quieter as technology has developed. The decibel levels vary from 31 to 60. To converse, this is the equivalent of a quiet library.
Is it possible to put an oxygen concentrator into an extension cord?
When using oxygen equipment, avoid using extension cords. Your concentrator may cause the cord to overheat, potentially resulting in a fire. Do not connect oxygen to a light switch-controlled outlet.
Is it possible to store an oxygen concentrator in a closet?
Do not store your oxygen concentrator in a room that is not well ventilated, such as a closet. Furthermore, because the concentrator purifies oxygen using the air in the room, it can quickly deplete oxygen in a small space. All cylinders must be secured in such a way that they cannot fall.
Is there such a thing as too much oxygen from an oxygen concentrator?
Using an oxygen concentrator without a prescription can result in major health risks, such as oxygen poisoning, which occurs when too much oxygen is delivered. It can also cause dangerous illnesses like COVID-19 to be delayed in receiving treatment.
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