Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POCs) like the OxyGo NEXT offer the freedom and mobility to lead an active life while receiving essential oxygen therapy. Proper battery care and charging practices are vital to ensure your OxyGo NEXT performs optimally. Here’s how to keep your POC battery in top shape.
Understanding Your OxyGo NEXT Battery
Types of POC Batteries
The OxyGo NEXT uses rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, renowned for their longevity and reliability. These batteries power the device, providing up to 6.5 hours of operation with a single battery and up to 13 hours with a double battery on a full charge.
Battery Life Expectancy
The expected lifespan of an OxyGo NEXT battery is approximately 500 full charge/discharge cycles. Regular maintenance and proper charging can help maximize battery life, ensuring your POC remains reliable.
Essential Battery Care Tips
Regular Charging
To maintain the health of your POC battery, it is crucial to charge it regularly. Avoid letting the battery completely drain before recharging, as this can shorten its lifespan.
- Tip: Recharge your battery when it reaches around 20-30% remaining power to prolong its life.
Avoid Extreme Temperatures
Lithium-ion batteries are sensitive to temperature extremes. Exposure to very high or low temperatures can reduce battery efficiency and lifespan.
- Tip: Store and use your OxyGo NEXT in environments between 41°F (5°C) and 95°F (35°C) for optimal performance.
Proper Storage
If you’re not using your OxyGo NEXT for an extended period, store the battery at a 40-50% charge in a cool, dry place. This helps maintain battery health during periods of inactivity.
Best Practices for Charging Your OxyGo NEXT
Using the Correct Charger
Always use the charger that came with your OxyGo NEXT or a manufacturer-approved replacement. Using incompatible chargers can damage the battery and the device.
Charging in a Ventilated Area
While charging, place your OxyGo NEXT in a well-ventilated area to prevent overheating. Ensure the charger and the POC are not covered by any materials.
- Tip: Avoid charging on soft surfaces like beds or couches which can obstruct ventilation.
Monitoring Charging Time
Overcharging can degrade battery performance. Although the OxyGo NEXT is designed to stop charging once the battery is full, it’s still good practice to monitor the charging process.
- Tip: Disconnect the charger once the battery is fully charged to avoid unnecessary strain on the battery.
- Tip: While the battery is attached, the OxyGo NEXT is in standby mode, this can cause a slow trickle of the battery. When the unit is not in use, it is best to remove the battery from the unit.
Troubleshooting Common Battery Issues
Battery Not Charging
If your battery isn’t charging, check the connections and ensure the charger is plugged in correctly. If the issue persists, try using a different power outlet or contact OxyGo support.
Reduced Battery Life
Over time, you might notice a decrease in battery life. This is normal for rechargeable batteries. However, if the drop in performance is significant, it might be time to replace the battery.
Maximizing Your Mobility with OxyGo NEXT
By following these battery care and charging tips, you can ensure your OxyGo NEXT stays reliable and ready to support your active lifestyle. Regular maintenance extends battery life and enhances the performance of your portable oxygen concentrator.