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Asset Type
Manufacturer
Model
What This Guide Helps With
Addresses incorrect hour meter readings or service indicator alerts caused by power issues, resets, or normal maintenance intervals.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
1. Ensure Patient Safety First
- If the concentrator is actively supplying oxygen, transfer the patient to a backup oxygen source before troubleshooting.
- Expected: Patient continues receiving uninterrupted oxygen therapy
- Why it matters: Service indicators may not affect output immediately, but troubleshooting should never risk oxygen delivery
2. Verify the Reported Issue
- Power on the unit and observe the display or indicator panel.
- Check:
- Is the hour meter frozen, inaccurate, or reset?
- Is a service or maintenance indicator illuminated?
- Any accompanying alarms or performance issues?
- Expected: Clear understanding of whether this is a display issue or maintenance alert
- Why it matters: Differentiates between normal service reminders and actual faults
3. Check for Normal Maintenance Interval (Most Common Cause)
- Review the unit’s service interval expectations (commonly tied to runtime hours).
- Determine if the unit has reached a typical service threshold
- Check maintenance logs or PM stickers
- Expected: Indicator corresponds with expected service interval
- Why it matters: Many service lights are reminders, not failures
4. Power Cycle the Unit
- Turn the concentrator off, unplug from AC power, wait 30–60 seconds, then restart.
- Expected: Display and indicators reset if issue was temporary
- Why it matters: Clears minor logic or display glitches
5. Verify Power Stability
- Check the power source:
- Plug into a known good outlet
- Avoid extension cords or power strips
- Observe for flickering display or intermittent resets
- Expected: Stable power with consistent display operation
- Why it matters: Power instability can cause incorrect hour tracking or indicator faults
6. Inspect Control Panel and Display
- Check for:
- Dim, flickering, or partially missing display segments
- Stuck or unresponsive buttons (if reset is user-accessible)
- Expected: Fully functional display and controls
- Why it matters: Display issues can mimic incorrect hour readings
7. Attempt Service Indicator Reset (If Applicable)
- If the model allows external reset:
- Follow facility-approved procedure (if available)
- Do not access internal components
- Expected: Service indicator clears if tied to completed maintenance
- Why it matters: Confirms indicator is not tied to an internal fault
8. Check for Additional Performance Issues
- Observe concentrator operation:
- Oxygen flow appears normal
- No abnormal noise, heat, or alarms
- No low purity or compressor warnings
- Expected: Normal operation aside from indicator issue
- Why it matters: Confirms this is an indicator issue, not a performance failure
If the Problem Persists
If the hour meter remains inaccurate or the service indicator cannot be cleared after verifying maintenance and power stability, the issue is likely internal (control board or display fault).
Remove the device from service, label it Out of Service, and send for repair or bench evaluation.
Knowing when to stop prevents unnecessary risk and ensures proper resolution.
Clinical Use Tip
Never ignore a service indicator during patient use. Even if oxygen output appears normal, always verify with a backup device before continued clinical use.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
"Unit displaying service indicator and incorrect hour meter reading."
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
"Service interval reached; indicator not reset after maintenance."
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
"Verified operation, reset service indicator per procedure, returned to service."
Helpful Details to Include (If Known)
- Outlet tested and verified
- Power cycle performed
- Service interval status checked
- Indicator behavior observed (steady, flashing, etc.)
- Display condition (clear, dim, missing segments)
- Any alarms or performance issues
- Final device status
Final Thought
Hour meter and service indicator issues are often routine maintenance reminders, but they should never be ignored. Always confirm safe operation first, rule out simple causes, and escalate appropriately. Strong documentation ensures continuity of care and equipment reliability.
That is successful troubleshooting.