Introduction

Starting oxygen therapy at home can feel overwhelming at first — especially here in Florida, where heat, humidity, and storm season add extra considerations.

If you live in Orlando or anywhere in Central Florida, understanding how your oxygen equipment works will help you feel more confident and prepared from day one.

In this guide, we’ll walk through:

• What an oxygen concentrator is
• Who typically uses home oxygen
• The difference between Stationary Oxygen Concentrators and Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POCs)
• Practical, Florida-specific safety tips

By the end, you’ll have a clear picture of what to expect — and how to manage oxygen therapy safely and comfortably at home.

What Is an Oxygen Concentrator?

An oxygen concentrator is a medical device that pulls in room air and filters out nitrogen, delivering concentrated oxygen for you to breathe.

Unlike traditional oxygen tanks, concentrators do not store oxygen. Instead, they generate oxygen continuously using electricity.

At Kinxo Medical Supplies, we provide two primary types:

Stationary Oxygen Concentrator

A stationary oxygen concentrator is designed to stay in one place inside your home.

What to know:

• Plugs into a standard electrical outlet
• Provides a continuous flow of oxygen (often 5–10 liters per minute, depending on the prescription and model)
• Commonly placed near a bed, recliner, or main living area
• Often used during sleep or while at home for extended periods

These units are reliable workhorses and are typically the foundation of home oxygen therapy.

Portable Oxygen Concentrator (POC)

A portable oxygen concentrator (POC) is a smaller, battery-powered device designed for mobility.

What to know:

• Lightweight and easy to carry or roll
• Most deliver oxygen in pulse doses when you inhale
• Rechargeable batteries allow use outside the home
• Ideal for errands, appointments, or spending time outdoors

POCs give many Florida patients the freedom to leave home without worrying about running out of oxygen — whether that’s a trip to the grocery store or a walk around Lake Eola.

Important Distinction

Oxygen concentrators are not the same as a Nebulizer Compressor + Administration Set.

• Oxygen concentrators provide supplemental oxygen
• Nebulizers deliver medication in a mist form

They serve different purposes and are prescribed for different needs.

Who Typically Needs Oxygen at Home?

Home oxygen therapy is commonly prescribed for people with conditions that affect oxygen levels in the blood, such as:

• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
• Pulmonary fibrosis
• Certain heart conditions
• Long-term effects following severe respiratory illness

If a doctor determines that oxygen saturation levels are consistently low, they may prescribe home oxygen therapy.

Important:
Oxygen is considered a medication. In Florida, you cannot obtain oxygen equipment from a licensed provider without a doctor’s prescription. This ensures the oxygen flow rate and usage schedule are appropriate for your condition.

What to Expect Day-to-Day

Many Central Florida patients use:

• A stationary concentrator at night or while resting
• A portable concentrator when leaving the home

Some people need oxygen around the clock, while others only need it during sleep or activity. Always follow your doctor’s instructions.

Emotionally, adjusting to oxygen can take time. It’s normal to worry that it may limit your lifestyle — but modern concentrators are quieter, more compact, and far more mobile than older systems.

Our team takes time to make sure you’re comfortable using your equipment before we leave your home.

Using Oxygen Safely in Florida

Florida’s climate and weather patterns make safety planning especially important.

No Smoking or Open Flames

Oxygen itself is not flammable, but it greatly increases fire risk.

• No smoking in the home while oxygen is in use
• Stay at least 6–8 feet away from stoves, candles, grills, or fireplaces
• Post a “No Smoking – Oxygen in Use” sign at entry points

Power Supply & Backup Planning

Stationary concentrators require electricity.

In Central Florida, storms and hurricanes can cause power outages. Plan ahead by:

• Discussing backup oxygen options with your provider
• Keeping extra POC batteries charged
• Considering compressed oxygen tanks as backup if prescribed
• Registering with your county’s Special Needs Registry for emergency planning and shelter access

Keep Equipment Cool & Ventilated

Heat and humidity can affect performance.

• Place concentrators in open, well-ventilated areas
• Avoid direct sunlight or enclosed cabinets
• Never leave POCs or batteries in hot cars
• Air-conditioned spaces are ideal

Cleaning Filters & Tubing

Humidity can cause filters to clog faster.

• Clean or replace intake filters as instructed
• Replace nasal cannulas every 1–2 weeks
• Replace tubing monthly or as directed

We’ll show you exactly how to maintain your equipment safely.

Prevent Trip Hazards

Long oxygen tubing allows movement — but can become a hazard.

• Route tubing along walls when possible
• Avoid high-traffic walkways
• Secure tubing with clips or under furniture
• Remind pets and children not to pull on tubing

Living Well With Oxygen

Oxygen therapy doesn’t mean giving up your lifestyle.

Many Kinxo patients continue enjoying:

• Outdoor walks
• Family visits
• Community events
• Travel with portable concentrators

Using oxygen as prescribed often improves energy, sleep, and overall comfort.

We’re local, so we understand Florida-specific concerns — from humidity to insurance approvals. We handle the technical details so you can focus on feeling better.

Conclusion

Home oxygen concentrators — both stationary and portable — support thousands of Florida patients every day.

With the right equipment, clear guidance, and a solid safety plan, oxygen therapy becomes part of daily life rather than a source of stress.

Kinxo Medical Supplies is here to support you at every step — from setup to ongoing questions. You’re not alone, and with the right knowledge and support, managing oxygen at home can feel natural and empowering.