How to Choose a Regulator (North America)

How to Choose an Oxygen Tank Regulator

Before choosing an oxygen tank regulator, you need to know which oxygen tank you will use. Learn about acquiring an oxygen tank.

• About oxygen regulators
• Regulator anatomy
• The difference between 870, 540, and regulators for an oxygen concentrator
• The size of an oxygen tank doesn’t matter (it’s the fitting)

About Oxygen Regulators

Oxygen regulators affix onto an oxygen tank. In North America, there are two different kinds of oxygen tanks which require different regulators respectively. An oxygen regulator is necessary for using an oxygen tank and allows you to change the speed at which oxygen is dispensed, often called the “flow rate.”

Regulator Anatomy

• Knob for adjusting the flow rate
• Barb outlet where the oxygen comes out
• Body of the regulator
• Gauge for displaying oxygen content
• Connection point

Different Regulators

There are two main types in North America: the 870 and 540, which differ mainly in the fitting used to connect to the oxygen tank.

870 Regulator

The 870 oxygen tank regulator fits onto an 870 oxygen tank.

540 Regulator

The 540 oxygen tank regulator fits onto a 540 medical oxygen tank.

Regulator for Oxygen Concentrator (not recommended)

We don't recommend using an oxygen concentrator as they do not produce pure concentrations of oxygen, which can lead to potential contaminants.