How To Change Oxygen Tank Regulator

How To Change Oxygen Tank Regulator

If you’re currently using oxygen, either at home or in the hospital, you know that it can be incredibly important to have a working regulator and oxygen supply on hand at all times. Unfortunately, it’s not always easy to know when your oxygen tank regulator needs changing. Luckily, this article gives you easy tips on how to change your oxygen tank regulator without damaging it in the process.

Step 1: Wear Protective Clothing

If you’re going to be carrying out an oxygen tank repair yourself, wearing protective clothing is a must. Oxygen is not only flammable, but it’s also super-cold. If you’re not dressed for it, what might seem like a minor leak can turn into serious burns or frostbite on your skin.

When performing any kind of repairs on oxygen tanks and regulators, always wear gloves and safety goggles so that you don’t come into contact with their contents (both asphyxiate). For additional protection from cold exposure, wear long sleeves and pants made from a synthetic material.

Step 2: Obtain an Adjustable Wrench

When you’re dealing with medical equipment, be careful not to break anything or cause injury. In order to make sure everything goes smoothly; you should have an adjustable wrench on hand before you start. Adjustable wrenches are available at most hardware stores and allow for a variety of different sizes of nuts and bolts.

If possible, get one with several different sizes so that you can switch them out depending on what type of machinery you need to work on. When looking for an adjustable wrench, it’s also important that it has a cushioned handle; otherwise, it can be difficult on your hands when trying to open up small spaces.

Step 3: Open the Regulator Valve

Many times, the reason you are trying to fix leaking oxygen regulator is that the valve won’t close. However, sometimes the problem is a little more challenging. Before removing the old one, check if it isn’t just a loose connection.

If it still won’t shut and you know there isn’t something blocking it from closing all the way, you need to open up that old leaky regulator and replace or repair whatever is causing the problem. If possible, start by turning off your oxygen concentrator so you can work without worrying about accidentally starting it while fixing everything inside of it.

Step 4: Change the O-ring

The next thing you want to do is replace or replace a specific part of your O-ring. The O-ring, which might be made out of different materials (depending on how old it is), works as a gasket that seals your two hoses together and attaches to your adaptor.

If you notice liquid coming from one or both of them, there’s a good chance that you need a new O-ring. Most of these are cheap and easy to find at any local home improvement store or online. Before buying one, however, make sure that it has an inner diameter (ID) and an outer diameter (OD) that matches yours.

Step 5: Turn off the regulator valve

To close the regulator valve, unscrew and remove the knob. Slide off the regulator gasket. Then slide in the new gasket (keeping it from rotating) and replace the knob. Put the screws back in.

Turn on the gas supply and use soapy water to check for leaks at the regulator and tank valve assembly fittings (bubbles indicate a leak). Tighten as needed with a wrench or pliers; over tightening can damage gaskets, so be careful not to overtighten. Make sure you are working with all parts disconnected from any sources of fuel.

Step 6: Finally, prepare your tank

If you plan on storing your tank in a home or vehicle, we recommend wrapping it up and storing it. This will prevent dirt and other airborne particles from getting into your tank and causing issues over time. If you aren’t planning on storing it, use a clean, damp cloth (like a cleaning rag) to wipe off any excess residue that could cause rusting. Be sure to let it air dry before using it again! Failure to do so can lead to leaks, cracks, or worse down the road.

Conclusion

So, it’s important that you take proper precautions when changing or adjusting your oxygen regulator. While it’s easier than ever before, it’s still an important process. In conclusion, learning how to fix a leaking oxygen regulator is an easy process with a few steps.

There are also a few ways you can go about making adjustments without having to replace your entire system. When in doubt, contact a medical professional for help if you aren’t sure what to do next. Don’t forget to be safe while you handle these tools and machines!

Feature photo by Unsplash