In woeful need of oxygen...

chrissij · #1 2006-02-28, 12:33pm

I ordered an oxygen concentrator from www.oxyunlimited.com, oh, bout 6 months ago, somewhere around the end of Katrina. It's a little Mobilaire V, and has been working famously. I've been cleaning the little air filters on the side, but now, it comes on, breathes in once, and the alarm sounds, and it's not a beep beep, it's a constant ear piercing wail. So...I'm thinking the little filter looking thingee down to the right of the compressor is, most likely, a filter Yes? No? and could be, maybe, clogged. If so, I think that is where it is most logical to start trouble shooting. Yes? No? Ideas?

IF-Designs · #2 2006-02-28, 12:42pm

They have a internal line filter as well and that could be the one clogged more than likely

they may even have 2 inside but you will have to take the plastic case off the unit and open it up and see. You can get replacements at your local medical oxygen spply place just take in your old ones and they can get you the new ones

Dale M. · #3 2006-02-28, 5:51pm

You may find some help here.... IF not there is a lot of good information anyway..

http://www.phc-online.com/docs/irc5lx_service.pdf

http://www.phc-online.com/docs/irc5lx02_manual.pdf

Dale

chrissij · #4 2006-02-28, 8:45pm

Thanx to both of you; not the filter, but the pressure regulator. I had (she says sheepishly) torn the thing somewhat apart before I got your answer Dale. It's just that "have to see how it works and what is wrong" gene that appears to be built into my frame. Of course, after I realize I can't manually adjust it, then bang on it (highly technical maneuver), then adjust it, I see the little "warranty will be void if..." sticker. Don't think it matters; suspect it's not under warranty anymore anyway.

Justin L · #5 2006-03-01, 5:26am

On the circuit board is 2 green LED lights. When the machine shuts off, look at the lights and remember which ones are on/off. There should be a sticker next to the internal filter with a description of the problem based on the led lights on the circuit board. Check that out and let me know what it says and I can give you some more info...may be an easy fix!

chrissij · #6 2006-03-01, 6:31am

Quote:

Originally Posted by Justin L

On the circuit board is 2 green LED lights. When the machine shuts off, look at the lights and remember which ones are on/off. There should be a sticker next to the internal filter with a description of the problem based on the led lights on the circuit board. Check that out and let me know what it says and I can give you some more info...may be an easy fix!

I did that, and from what it said, it was either a) a pressure problem, or b) the pressure regulator (which would be a pressure problem, huh?). If I undo the pressure regulator, it will run. As soon as I put grab the hose, restricting the flow somewhat (like the torch does) the alarm sounds and it shuts off. I'm thinking it's the pressure regulator. Am I at least on the right track?

Justin L · #7 2006-03-01, 10:16am

these are a very pressure sensitive machine...if possible i would get a pressure gauge and test the output pressure of the machine. If it is not at 5, set it there and try again. If the gauge gives you weird readings ie: continues to climb and peg the gauge, then the regulator is probably bad. I dont see bad regulators too often... Does it say High or Low pressure?