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Liquid oxygen takes up less space than oxygen in its gas form, making it easier and lighter to carry around. Not only that, it also can be stored at a much lower pressure. This makes liquid oxygen tanks safer than concentrated oxygen cylinders under high pressure. Liquid oxygen portable tanks are filled from reservoirs that can be kept in the home.
Liquid oxygen is similar to compressed oxygen in that the oxygen is stored in a tank. The difference is that these devices store the oxygen in its liquid state rather than as a gas. This is preferable over compressed oxygen because once oxygen enters its gaseous state it expands and thus takes up more space.
- Overview
- Procedure Details
- Risks / Benefits
- When to Call the Doctor
- Additional Common Questions
Oxygen tanks are medical devices that store supplemental oxygen. You may need an oxygen tank if you have a lung condition that affects your breathing. There are three main types of oxygen tanks: compressed oxygen, liquid oxygen and oxygen concentrator. A healthcare provider will teach you how to use your oxygen tank.
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OverviewProcedure DetailsRisks / BenefitsWhen to Call the DoctorAdditional Common Questions
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How do I use an oxygen tank?
Your oxygen tank should come with a type of sleeve or carrier. Make sure the tank is in the carrier and in a secure position. A regulator fits on the valve on top of the oxygen tank. It tells you how much oxygen is in the tank. When the needle is in the green area, the tank is full. The needle will gradually move to the red area as you use your oxygen tank. Once it reaches the red area, the tank is empty. A healthcare provider will tell you how much oxygen you need. Adjust the knob on the side of the regulator to the prescribed amount. Your oxygen tank should have a small wrench that hangs off the top. Use the wrench to open and close the valve and adjust the regulator. Turn it to the left to open and to the right to tighten it. There’s an outlet on the side of the regulator. Listen or feel for oxygen flow on the outlet nub. Adjust the valve and regulator with the wrench if you don’t hear or feel oxygen. Attach your nasal cannula or oxygen mask to the outlet. Adjust the tubes for the nasal cannula or oxygen mask. Secure them behind your ears (like eyeglasses). You can place the rest of the tubes under your chin or behind your head. Turn off the airflow when you’re not using your oxygen tank. All portable oxygen tanks have the same basic valve shape and size. Once you learn how to use one type of oxygen tank, you should also be able to use other types. It’s a good idea to keep your oxygen tank equipment clean to help prevent illness or infection: Wash your plastic tubing at least once a week with soap and water. Replace your nasal cannula or mask at least once a month. Replace your nasal cannula or mask after you’re sick.
What are the potential benefits of using oxygen tanks?
The main benefit of using an oxygen tank is that it helps you breathe easier. It isn’t a cure and might not completely relieve shortness of breath. But it should make it easier for you to breathe. Other benefits include: More energy. Your mind and body can feel tired if you’re not getting enough oxygen. An oxygen tank can deliver more oxygen to your bloodstream, increasing your energy levels and allowing you to be more active, including exercise. Sleep better. More oxygen in your blood allows you to sleep better at night.
What are the risks or complications of using oxygen tanks?
Oxygen isn’t flammable. But it makes fire burn hotter and faster and can result in an explosion. Make sure you keep your oxygen tank at least 10 feet away from open flames, sources of high temperatures and flammable materials, including: Cigarettes and cigars. Fires. Ovens. Grills. Gasoline. Oil. Paints and paint thinner. Rubbing alcohol. Oil-based products, such as petroleum jelly (Vaseline®). It’s a good idea to put “No smoking” signs around the entrances of your home. If you need a topical or lubricating ointment, use a water-based product, such as K-Y Jelly®. You should also avoid using electrical equipment around your oxygen tank. There’s a risk that electrical equipment can spark and cause a fire. This includes items such as: Hairdryers. Electric blankets. Space heaters. Electric razors. Vape pens. If you use an oxygen concentrator, it’s a good idea to keep at least one extra set of fully charged batteries handy in case your power goes out. You should have enough batteries available to run your oxygen concentrator for a few days. Oxygen tanks can also be heavy. A falling oxygen tank can cause an injury or break. If it breaks, escaping air could send the tank soaring through the air. Always secure your oxygen tank in a carrier or cart. Avoid contact with liquid oxygen. Exposure to your skin can cause cryogenic burns or frostbite.
When should I call a healthcare provider?
While using an oxygen tank, you should call a healthcare provider if you have symptoms that affect your breathing, as well as: Dizziness. Confusion. Memory loss. Headaches. Nausea and vomiting. These are signs of oxygen poisoning. Oxygen poisoning is when breathing in too much supplemental oxygen damages your lungs. You should also contact a healthcare provider if you think your oxygen tank or regulator isn’t working properly. Have a provider check your tanks at least twice a year to ensure they work correctly. Advertisement
Do you need a prescription for an oxygen tank?
Yes, you need a prescription from a healthcare provider to get an oxygen tank.
Can you buy oxygen tanks?
You can’t buy oxygen tanks over the counter. If you need a new oxygen tank, reach out to a healthcare provider or a medical supply company. A note from Cleveland Clinic If you have a condition that affects your breathing or are going to spend time in a high-altitude area, you may need an oxygen tank. Using a nasal cannula or an oxygen mask may be uncomfortable at first. And transporting a portable tank may require some adjustments. But an oxygen tank shouldn’t prevent you from participating in many of your regular activities. Talk to a healthcare provider if you have any questions or feelings of uncertainty. They can help you acclimate to using an oxygen tank. Medically Reviewed Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 08/04/2023. Learn more about our editorial process.
Sep 30, 2013 · When chilled to a temperature of -300 degrees Fahrenheit, oxygen turns into a liquid and takes up much less room than it did as a gas – about 10% less. That’s most likely the reason why most people using compressed oxygen have moved on to liquid filled tanks. More oxygen in a tank means more time to be able to go out and about.
Nov 14, 2024 · Determining whether an oxygen concentrator is better than an oxygen cylinder (or tank) depends on the specific needs and circumstances of the user. Concentrators provide a continuous supply of oxygen extracted from the ambient air, eliminating the need for refills. They’re generally safer because they don’t store compressed oxygen.
Rather than storing oxygen as a compressed gas, liquid oxygen tanks store oxygen as a compressed liquid. While this allows the user to carry a lot more oxygen, liquid oxygen tanks come with their own set of problems. In order for oxygen to be stored as a liquid, it has to be kept at temperatures of around -297 degrees Fahrenheit (-182 degrees ...
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Jun 22, 2022 · Rather than storing oxygen as a compressed gas, liquid oxygen tanks store oxygen as a compressed liquid. While this allows the user to carry a lot more oxygen, liquid oxygen tanks come with their own set of problems. In order for oxygen to be stored as a liquid, it has to be kept at temperatures of around-297 degrees Fahrenheit (-182 degrees ...
