What supplies do I really need?

[sleepy1235]

I have my S9 Elite and I am getting sleep and things are going well.

What supplies do I really need? Do I need to get them from the company that sold me the unit?

[JDS74]

In order of priority:
1) A copy of your prescription
2) Spare filters
3) Spare mask, or cushions, etc.
4) Spare hose from machine to mask.
5) Spare humidifier chamber if you have a humidifier. - EDIT
6) Spare power supply for your system. - EDIT
.
.
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99) Way down here, a spare CPAP machine unless you have a local DME who can provide a loaner while yours is fixed.

None of this stuff needs to come from the local DME but it is sometimes convenient especially during the "rent-to-own" period.
You will get better prices on-line from our hosts or from other suppliers on the Web.

Depending on your insurance, etc. you can start out the spares list by getting new stuff as soon as the insurance pays and then clean and carefully keep the mask and hose set you just got replaced.

[Let me sleep]

That was a very good question. As a new user
I never thought about getting a spare hose.
But there have been a few times I have stepped on it
getting out of bed.

[chunkyfrog]

Spares of the most fragile parts is a good plan.
Mask, cushion/pillow, and hose.
Distilled water is a must if you are like most of us and need humid air.
You may also need comfort items like mask liners and strap covers (pad a cheek)

[SabrinaFaire]

Thanks for posting this, I'm new to CPAP too.

Can I ask why we need a copy of the prescription?

[JDS74]

Thanks for posting this, Can I ask why we need a copy of the prescription?

If you wish to change suppliers or DME, you will need a copy of your prescription to file with the new person.
It's also a good idea to have one when you travel just in case.

[Denial Dave]

A copy of your prescription is needed if you want to buy a mask or machine from an on-line seller.... AND it's handy if you travel and have an emergency.

must haves IMHO are;

spare filters
spare mask cushions
spare headgear
spare humidifier tank (from my perspective with Resmed S9 machines)

at some point, you'll want to have a full spare mask available in the event of a mishap.. Like if you drop the mask on a tile bathroom floor while cleaning it and the frame cracks or breaks.

[Sheriff Buford]

Also, consider a hose hanger. If you do a search, there are many folks here that have made their own. I use the Hose Buddy. A hose hanger is the best investment I've made. You don't have to fuss with the hose draped across your body all night and routing the hose "up" can help with rain out issues.

Sheriff

[ChrisD]

What supplies do I really need? Do I need to get them from the company that sold me the unit?

I would say you need at least one spare of everything that could break and keep you from using your machine. I personally have two spares of almost everything (mask, hose, filters, headgear, cushions, mask clips, humidifier tank) because I don't want to try to sleep without my machine.

You can build up you spares by using your original equipment until it no longer works instead of replacing it at the 3, 6, 9, 12 month intervals as requested by the manufacturer and your DME. Example: The manufacturer recommends replacing your hose every three months. You wash your hose every week and keep it safe. Your original hose could last you years before it finally wears out. So you order a replacement hose at the 3 and 6 month mark and place them in your spares bin to keep on hand for later. Same goes for the rest of your parts as well.

As to where to buy them, I'm sure you can get them wherever you like as long as you have your prescription (needed for purchasing masks and machines).

Gook luck,
Chris

[sleepy1235]

Thanks. All very good inputs.