Tank Filler

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Retail prices for reservoirs are from $1300-2200. You should be able to

get one from a supplier in the $1200-1500 range new. A Helios Marathon

new retails for $1255. You should be able to get one for under $1000. So

new a system would probably run $2000-2500

You can find many used and reconditioned reservoirs. Typically you

should be able to get one for $500-800. I have seen them as low as $300.

You can find used, reconditioned, and almost new (some even claim to be

new) Marathons. I have seen almost new ones (verified by checking serial

number) for $300-600. So used or reconditioned a system would probably

run $1000-1200.

On top of that you have to pay for oxygen fills. They run from $0.50

-$2.00 per pound. At $0.50 my weekly usage would run me around $37.50.

Now you may rent reservoirs and marathons. Rental for just the units

would run $100-200 depending on market and negotiation.

To get a supplier to provide you with a reservoir, supplies and oxygen,

all on a rental basis, you should be able to negotiate down to the

medicare billing price by explaining your situation. In my market that

monthly price is $231.07 per month for reservoir, marathon, all

supplies, and a refill once per week.

Just like with canisters the real expense is the service of refilling

and delivering.

For those looking to buy equipment, there are many reputable sellers of

used and reconditioned equipment. Your local oxygen supplier may even be

willing to make you a deal. There is also craigslist and ebay. Obviously

there are precautions you need to take.

Most are fortunate enough to be covered my insurance or medicare but for

others there is shopping one can do to at least lower the costs.

Beth shared her experiences. I also have a couple of items of my own. I

purchased a $4500 powerchair through craigslist for $500 in good

condition with fewer than 400 hours use. I purchased a lightweight (32

pound) concentrator to use in those places where a reservoir is too

heavy to get. I saw them used for $250-400 but I purchased new for $700.

Some are available new, online, for under $600 now. I purchased a 10

liter reservoir for my car, less than two years old, for $225 through

craigslist. If you look at the age of some of the equipment your

supplier gives you, it can be pretty old. The biggest issue you face is

if you had it fail and needed an emergency repair or loaner. There are

plenty of people you can send it to, but try to find a local supplier

who will support you. Then you'll be their customer when you get

medicare.

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> > From: toadwizard toadwizard@

> > Subject: Tank Filler

> > To: Breathe-Support

> > Date: Tuesday, November 18, 2008, 6:52 PM

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> > Does anyone have one of these or know anything about them ?

> > DEVILBISS I-FILL OXYGEN TANK REFILL SYSTEM

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