CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machines are the primary treatment devices for sleep apnea. While this form of sleep therapy is highly successful, a large part of its effectiveness is dependent on proper equipment maintenance. Users must clean and replace CPAP equipment regularly to ensure optimal results. Here are some guidelines to assist you as you care for your CPAP machine.
Safe Storage and Cleaning
Be sure to keep your machine out of the regular reach of children and pets. When it is time to clean your CPAP, make a point to unplug the machine before proceeding. Avoid cleaning your machine with bleach, alcohol, and other harsh chemicals. Because you are using this mask on your face, steer clear of anything you wouldn’t want to breathe in. Instead, opt for warm water, vinegar, or wipes that are specially formulated for CPAP machines.
Which Parts Need Attention
The part that most obviously needs regular cleaning is your CPAP mask. You should wipe or gently wash your mask daily. Additionally, once a week you should soak your mask in one part vinegar to three parts warm water. Rinse the mask with water and allow to dry completely before using.
In addition to the mask, your machine uses tubing that should be regularly cleaned. On a weekly basis, submerge your CPAP tube in warm water with a small amount of mild soap. If you choose to clean inside the tubing with a bottle brush, be sure to be extra gentle so you don’t cause any holes. As with your mask, ensure that the tubing is completely dry before you use it again.
In the back of your CPAP machine, there are filters that purify the air as it enters the machine. The white disposable filters should be replaced when they appear dirty, about every month. Reusable grey filters should be rinsed weekly, or more if your home contains pets or other allergens, and replaced every six months.
If your machine includes a heated humidifier, the humidification chamber should be cleaned daily to prevent bacteria growth and build-up. Each morning after use, carefully remove and empty the humidification chamber. Wash the chamber with warm soapy water, rinse, and then leave it to dry. Once a week, soak the chamber in a vinegar solution. Be sure to only use distilled or sterile water in the humidifier to prevent unwanted chemicals. Also, check your CPAP manual because some humidifier chambers are dishwasher safe.
When To Replace CPAP Parts
Clearly, if any part of your machine breaks or cracks, you should replace it. This includes masks, tubing, filters, etc. Additionally, to avoid bacteria growth, tubing should be replaced at least twice a year. Different models and manufacturers have differing recommendations, but mask cushioning should generally be replaced monthly while masks themselves last between three and six months. Humidification chambers are also due for replacement about twice a year.
With proper care and maintenance, a CPAP machine can work at peak performance for many years. Make the above suggestions part of your regular routine, and you will have an excellent sleep therapy experience. As you search for the best prices on CPAP machines and parts, be sure you check out the CPAP section of the AAA Wholesale online catalog.