Mask leaking for no reason?

MrRandom · Post by **MrRandom** » Thu Jun 26, 2008 10:29 pm

Do you all have any idea why my mask would suddenly be leaking alot? I got the cushion replaced but it hasn't helped much. I don't get it.

Snoredog · Post by **Snoredog** » Thu Jun 26, 2008 10:53 pm

one word: Quattro

that POS mask has a defective anti-asphyxia valve the mfg won't acknowledge has a problem, it has had it since the day it was released.

You wake up and all the pressure is going out the elbow. Make sure you disable or turn any auto:off feature.

MrRandom · Post by **MrRandom** » Fri Jun 27, 2008 5:23 am

Haven't had that problem yet. It won't stick to my face and seal anymore.

WindFlyer · Post by **WindFlyer** » Fri Jun 27, 2008 9:28 am

Tips for helping mask seal on the face:

1) keep mask cushion clean
2) keep face clean, i.e. wash before bedtime
3) expriment with the timing of placing the mask on the face. Sometimes if you mask up before turning on the flow generator the section of the seal that "inflates" from the airflow cannot properly inflate. Sometimes if you turn on the air and let it get up to full blast before you mask up then there will be a constant leak because of the sheer volume of air movement. Personally I've found a happy medium by switching on the flow generator, waiting a second or two until the air is definitely moving but not howling and then put the mask on at that point.

Hope this helps.

Wulfman · Post by **Wulfman** » Fri Jun 27, 2008 1:05 pm

You asked: "Mask leaking for no reason?"

MrRandom wrote:Do you all have any idea why my mask would suddenly be leaking alot? I got the cushion replaced but it hasn't helped much. I don't get it.

MrRandom wrote:Haven't had that problem yet. It won't stick to my face and seal anymore.

If you have NOT wrapped both ends of the elbow with Teflon tape, I can assure you that it IS the problem.

We had this discussion in one of your previous posts and I suggested doing the "Teflon tape fix". Until you do that, it'll feel like it's leaking from EVERYWHERE. It ain't the cushion.....as you found out.

Den

MrRandom · Post by **MrRandom** » Fri Jun 27, 2008 1:08 pm

I did the teflon tape a long time ago. I even took it apart and re-did it just to be sure it was all fresh and not worn down from movement of the elbow. I think it's just my greasy skin. It's been tons more oily lately and doesnt matter if I wash my face before bed, it's dripping in grease again a couple hours later. That must be the problem

Wulfman · Post by **Wulfman** » Fri Jun 27, 2008 1:16 pm

Are you sure it's "grease" or could it be from moisture accumulating from the humidified air? If you have your humidifier cranked up, you might want to try turning it down or off to test the results.
Also, depending on how snug or loose you have the headgear adjusted (along with the forehead piece) can affect leakage.

Den

MrRandom · Post by **MrRandom** » Sat Jun 28, 2008 8:55 pm

Definitely grease. I only use the humidifier as a passover, no heat. I have more acne lately too. In fact two acnes developed on the bridge of my nose where the mask sits. I've had to tighten that headgear so much that my teeth hurt. Any looser and it leaks. It's crazy.

khvn · Post by **khvn** » Sat Jun 28, 2008 10:08 pm

Overtightening the headgear can be counter-productive.

Leaking persisting despite of a new cushion can mean your mask no longer contours well to your face and a new mask maybe in order.

To address both the headgear overtightening issue and the facial grease issue, you need a mask that can act like a snorkeling mask where the water pressure actually help press the mask onto your face without the need for an overly tightened strap.

I think your symtoms cry out loud for the Utra Mirage Activa.