Getting an old machine going again

So years before I was diagnosed with sleep apnea, my husband was diagnosed with it. He was given a Philips Respironics REMstar Auto A-flex System One machine (at least, I think that's what it was called, based on looking at the old machine). He stopped using it at some point after he got sick and claimed he didn't know how to clean it. And since his snoring seemed so much better, we were both willing to overlook giving up the machine. But lately, years later, he is having trouble with being tired, and his docs think trying the cpap again would be a good idea. What I am trying to figure out is how to get the old machine going again before dealing with the insurance company. I cleaned the machine and his old mask. Is there anything else I should be thinking of for this experimental journey? Obviously we will deal with our doctor and the insurance company in terms of getting new supplies and/or a new machine. But for the moment, my husband just wants to experiment with the old one to see if it makes a difference to his sleep. Any thoughts or suggestions would be welcome. And thanks!

I suppose there is a "Mask Fit test" selection in the menu. He should try it hours before bedtime to see if the mask is too old and leaks or needs the straps adjusting. If all is well, use the machine tonight

Sleep2Dream wrote: ↑

Mon Dec 17, 2018 8:37 pm

So years before I was diagnosed with sleep apnea, my husband was diagnosed with it. He was given a Philips Respironics REMstar Auto A-flex System One machine (at least, I think that's what it was called, based on looking at the old machine). He stopped using it at some point after he got sick and claimed he didn't know how to clean it.

The only part of the machine itself that needs to be cleaned is the water tank (soap and water, vinegar if there's any mineral deposits) and the foam filter, (wash, dry, replace).

Sleep2Dream wrote: ↑

Mon Dec 17, 2018 8:37 pm

I cleaned the machine and his old mask. Is there anything else I should be thinking of for this experimental journey?

Not really. There's nothing in the machine itself that ever needs cleaning... mask, water tank, you're good.

Sleep2Dream wrote: ↑

Mon Dec 17, 2018 8:37 pm

Obviously we will deal with our doctor and the insurance company in terms of getting new supplies and/or a new machine.

I get all my supplies on ebay and amazon, less trouble than dealing with the doctor and insurance.. (and cheaper for some people).

You only need to replace things when they wear out, not based on the 'schedule' dreamed up by the DME in order to make more money off you and your insurance company.

Okay, so I cleaned it all. The filters look quite different from the ones in my Dreamstation, but I'm guessing that's not a big deal. I guess the next step is to put it all back together and start it up again?

Sleep2Dream wrote: ↑

Mon Dec 17, 2018 10:51 pm

Okay, so I cleaned it all. The filters look quite different from the ones in my Dreamstation, but I'm guessing that's not a big deal. I guess the next step is to put it all back together and start it up again?

The foam filter is washable, the white filter is optional, and should probably be replaced, not washed, though you could try washing it, in a pinch.

Hook it up and let us know how it goes