Mask Replacement Schedule

[Zaiforce]

Hi all,

Just wondering how important it is to stay strict to the mask replacement schedule?

My mother uses a Fisher & Paykel Evora full face mask, the recommended replacement time for it is 6 months.

Her mask is currently 9 months old (so 3 months overdue) and seems completely fine, it is washed every week or so and is wiped down with mask wipes every night before use.

The cushion does seem to be a bit cloudy looking, however as far as I know it still works perfectly fine, there are no rips or breaks in it that I know of, is it necessary to throw it away and replace it even when it appears to be functioning fine?

Does everybody else adhere strictly to the 6 month time frame for mask replacement?

The same question for the mask hosing, her machine is the Resmed Lumis 150 VPAP ST and it has a heated hose which is currently 9 months old, it still seems fine, should it be replaced at 6 months also even if it appears fine?

Do you only replace these equipment when there is visible/noticeable damage?

Just wondering everyone's thoughts since there are a lot more experienced users here.

Thanks for any advice!

[bwexler]

I absolutely follow my DME's recommendations for replacement, UNLESS I FORGET.
I don't remember ever going more then 18 months on a mask, or a couple or 3 years on a hose or water chamber.

By the way, what year is this.

[zonker]

Hi all,

Just wondering how important it is to stay strict to the mask replacement schedule?

oh ,it's very important. if you don't adhere to the schedule, the CPAP police will knock down your door and take it all away.

Do you only replace these equipment when there is visible/noticeable damage?

this is the correct answer. the so called schedule is in place as an effort to part yourself and your money.

[Sheriff Buford]

I usually replace my mask cushions when the leak rates increase or the leaks start to wake me up. I can usually get 4-6 weeks on a cushion. The answer is no. Different people have different schedules.

Sheriff

[Zaiforce]

Thank you everybody for the replies

I figured that it would only really be important to replace the items once damage or defects were seen, but just thought I'd check, I do get a bit paranoid when it comes to my mum's health and I tend to stress a bit too much lol.

I am not sure how to check the leak rate on her machine to see if her mask is performing, but we haven't noticed any increased in leaks and I haven't noticed the machine alarm beeping or anything.

We will get a new mask in the next month or 2 anyway.

Thanks again all.