Table 1.
Comparison of oxygen cylinders and concentrators (adapted from Graham et al)22
| Oxygen cylinders | Oxygen concentrators | |
| Capital cost | Low (higher if including regulators and flow-meter assemblies) | Moderate |
| Running cost | High: frequent refilling, transport and logistics | Low: power, maintenance |
| Power source | None required | Required, continuously |
| Reliability | Good, so long as supply lasts | Good, on selected models |
| Continuous supply | No, limited by volume (large H-type cylinders last 2–4 days with continuous low-flow use) | Yes, limited by equipment or power failure |
| Maintenance | Minimal: check regulators, leakage | Essential: simple preventive and intermittent repairs |
| Training | Yes, clinical use of oxygen, care of cylinders and connections | Yes, clinical use of oxygen, care of concentrators and connections, technical maintenance |