How many watts does a home oxygen concentrator use?
Updated
Running watts
350 W
Starting watts
700 W
Energy per day
8.4 kWh
A home oxygen concentrator typically draws about 350 watts while running and up to 700 watts for a second or two when the motor starts. At about 24 h of use a day, that is roughly 8.4 kWh per day. These are typical values from generator wattage charts: the label on your own appliance (or its EnergyGuide sticker) gives the exact figure.
What size generator do I need for a home oxygen concentrator?
Plan for at least 840 W: 700 W to get through the start-up surge, plus a 20% margin so the generator never runs flat out. Of the common sizes, a 2,000 W generator is the smallest that fits.
| Generator | Can it run a home oxygen concentrator? |
|---|---|
| 2,000 W | Yes |
| 3,500 W | Yes |
| 5,000 W | Yes |
| 7,500 W | Yes |
| 10,000 W | Yes |
| 15,000 W | Yes |
How long will a power station run a home oxygen concentrator?
Running continuously at 350 W, assuming 85% of the battery is usable. The station's AC output must also handle the 700 W start-up surge.
| Battery capacity | Runtime |
|---|---|
| 1,000 Wh | about 2 h |
| 2,000 Wh | about 5 h |
| 3,600 Wh | about 9 h |
Running more than one appliance?
Starting surges don't add up the way running watts do. Pick everything you want to power to get your real number.
Open the CPAP Battery Backup CalculatorFrequently asked questions
What size generator do I need to run a home oxygen concentrator?
At least 840 W: 700 W to cover the start-up surge, plus a 20% safety margin.
Can a 2,000 watt generator run a home oxygen concentrator?
Yes. 2,000 W covers its 700 W starting surge with room to spare.
Can a 3,500 watt generator run a home oxygen concentrator?
Yes. 3,500 W covers its 700 W starting surge with room to spare.
How long will a 1,000 Wh power station run a home oxygen concentrator?
About 2 h, assuming 85% usable capacity, as long as the station's AC output is rated for 700 W of surge.
Never run a generator indoors or in a garage: see the CPSC safety guide.