Choosing between piped medical gas and bottled gas is a common consideration for veterinary clinics, shelter clinics, and other medical facilities. Each option has distinct advantages and limitations, and the best choice often depends on your specific operational needs and circumstances.
5 Factors to Consider
When our animal care experts at Design Learned work with facilities, we always discuss these 5 considerations. Here are the key factors to consider when deciding between piped and bottled medical gas for your facility.
Space Requirements
A common misconception is that piped medical gas systems require significantly more space than bottled gas. In reality, both options demand similar space considerations. Piped systems need room for equipment and emergency backup bottles, while bottled gas requires adequate storage for cylinders not currently in use. Whether you opt for piped or bottled gas, it is essential to assess your facility’s available storage and infrastructure capabilities.
Frequency of Use
The frequency with which medical gas is used at your facility can heavily influence your decision. For high-volume settings, such as busy clinics or hospitals, piped gas systems offer unmatched convenience and efficiency. Piped gas eliminates the need to transport heavy cylinders through the facility, streamlining operations and enhancing safety. Conversely, smaller clinics or facilities with infrequent gas needs may find bottled gas a more practical and cost-effective solution.
Cost Considerations
Cost is another critical factor when evaluating medical gas systems. Bottled gas typically has lower upfront costs, as it does not require significant infrastructure investments. In contrast, piped systems demand initial expenditures for design and installation, including specialized infrastructure within the building. While the upfront costs of piped systems are higher, their long-term operational benefits, such as convenience and efficiency, often justify the investment for facilities with frequent or large-scale gas requirements.
Building Condition
The condition and design of your building also play a crucial role in determining the feasibility of a piped system. Installing a piped gas system in an existing building can be challenging and costly, particularly if the structure lacks the necessary support for the system’s components. On the other hand, incorporating a piped system into the design of a new building is more straightforward and cost-effective. If your facility is in an older building, you must assess whether modifications are feasible and budget for any necessary upgrades.
Considering Oxygen Generators
For larger veterinary practices or facilities with substantial oxygen needs, oxygen generators are an increasingly popular option. However, it is important to note that oxygen generators require significant space and additional infrastructure to function effectively. The upfront costs for equipment and ongoing maintenance must also be carefully evaluated. While oxygen generators can provide long-term savings and convenience, the initial investment and space requirements make them a better fit for larger facilities.
Deciding Which is Best
Ultimately, the decision to use piped medical gas or bottled gas depends on your facility’s unique needs, usage patterns, and infrastructure. Facilities with frequent gas usage, adequate budget, and suitable building conditions may benefit from the efficiency and convenience of a piped system. Smaller operations or those with budget constraints might find bottled gas to be a more practical choice.
Carefully assess your facility’s requirements, including space, usage, budget, and building condition, to make an informed decision. Consulting with a professional design and engineering firm like DLI can also help you identify the best solution tailored to your specific needs.
Give the Design Learned team a call at 860-889-7078 or schedule a consultation online to discuss your animal care facility and explore options.
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