sleepyinmississippi wrote:I was surprised to hear my CPAP machine is a "brick." I definitely feel rested after using it. But since it's obvious it's not a top of the line model, what should I look for the next time I get a CPAP machine?
Check out this blog
http://maskarrayed.wordpress.com/
If you want to find a full data machine later and buy it yourself you will want to get one that will work with your humidifier to save money...unless you find a steal of a deal.
In the PR System One 50 series (that's what your humidifier is) that would be either the PR System One Pro CPAP with CFlex and that model is 450.
You could also use model 550 with is the PR System One Auto CPAP with AFlex....it has APAP and CPAP mode available.
You might check with mcdover to see if he happens to have one. Gently used machines and his prices are quite fair.
I have bought from him...he's trustworthy
viewtopic.php?f=1&t=83637&st=0&sk=t&sd=a
You can also shop your local craigslist but you really have to know your machine models because it can be confusing.
I don't know your insurance situation or how long you have had this machine or if you are in a rent to own stage or what compliance requirements you might have. You know if you haven't had it very long why not just ask for a better machine...the 150 doesn't even have exhale relief. All they can do is say no.
If you have compliance requirements and you can't get the machine swapped out....satisfy those requirements and if you a curious about your data for any reason and you can find a full data machine that you can afford...delegate the 150 to back up status.
It a good machine in terms of therapy. You may not miss the exhale relief and it's only real drawback is the lack of any useful data and the data may not be a critical issue for you. That has to be your decision.
In other words the 150 will provide effective therapy as long as leaks aren't excessive and your pressure settings are optimal.
Only problem being you don't have any way to verify things being optimal except how you feel.
For a lot of people that is sufficient. They feel great...sleep great...much improved...no need to fix anything so they just don't care about the data. For me (being a data hound) it would drive me nuts but you may be totally cool with it.
BTW it's a good idea to have a back up machine anyway.. If the pocketbook permits.
I may have to RISE but I refuse to SHINE.
If you want to try the Eclipse mask and want a special promo code to get a little off the price...send me a private message.