Walgreens-OptionCare > Respiratory > Services and equipment > Oxygen-conserving devices

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Recent technology has allowed for more efficient use of portable oxygen systems. While each manufacturer's device works slightly differently, there are some common principles: First of all, when we breathe, we usually spend about one-third of our time inhaling and two-thirds of our time exhaling. People with lung disease actually spend more than two-thirds of their time exhaling. This means we run oxygen at the prescribed liter flow continuously; at least 2/3 of that flow is wasted since it can not be inhaled. An oxygen-conserving device works by turning on the flow when the user is inhaling and turning it off when exhaling. As a result, a substantial amount of oxygen is saved, which dramatically increases the length of time a tank of oxygen will last.

Oxygen-conserving devices do not work for everyone. Since it must be able to sense inspiration to start the flow of gas, the physician will want to test a user to make sure that the device will work safely and provide enough oxygen to the user. Typically, using a conserving device with an E-tank at 2 liters per minute flow, the tank will last about 7 hours or so. Many people using conserving devices opt to use much smaller tanks that will not last as long, but is less weight to carry around.