Moisture

[Jan Watkins]

If the C-Pap machine is supposed to be the ultimate answer to sleep apnea, why hasn't someone perfected the machine so there is not so many problems with moisture? In reading over the c-pap talk it seems that it is the most talked about issue and aggravation. Jan Watkins

[RipVW]

That mositure, or "rainout," is an issue for many until they find the right fix, and there are many that work: hose cover, turning the humidifier setting down or off (I use my HH with no heat, just "passive" humidification), heated hose (e.g. Aussie Heated hose). There's really no way the CPAP machine can control for this by itself, since the rainout is just condensation that naturally accumulates inside the hose when the room air is cooler than the warmed humid air on the inside of the hose.

[LoQ]

If the C-Pap machine is supposed to be the ultimate answer to sleep apnea, why hasn't someone perfected the machine so there is not so many problems with moisture? In reading over the c-pap talk it seems that it is the most talked about issue and aggravation. Jan Watkins

The manufacturers of these devices, as clever as they are, can't change the laws of physics.

They probably could solve the moisture problem, resulting in a machine that is:
1. much more expensive, even for those who don't need the solution at all or all the time
2. having a much less flexible hose, again harming those who don't need the solution.

There are many solutions to this problem available as an add-on and also as DIY for the frugal. I think this is pretty ideal, actually, because it doesn't burden everyone with the cost and other downsides of a solution that only some will need. It allows each person to choose the price-point solution that meets their needs. Everyone wins this way.

A set of solutions to choose from is better than being stuck with a "one size fits all" solution, at least with this problem.

[kopoloff]

There is a solution to the condensation problem. It will solve the problem once and for all, in probably every circumstance.

We need a dual wall hose, with an air gap between the inner and outer walls. This can have a low flow rate of warm air to keep the inner wall at an elevated temperature.

Why isn't this solution available? Take your pick from the following

Too costly
Non robust engineering
We don't scream loudly enough about it
The hose would lack flexibility
The hose would be bulkier
More stuff to set up, maintain, and lug around when we're travelling

K

[tenspeed]

If the C-Pap machine is supposed to be the ultimate answer to sleep apnea, why hasn't someone perfected the machine so there is not so many problems with moisture?

I don't have any problem with moisture.
If I did, I would get one of those fabric hose covers. I wouldn't want a double walled hose - too bulky.