1st time APAP purchase, what else do I need to buy???

I am so glad I found you guys, been lurking around for a few days, finally signed up last night.

My husband is the patient, moderate OSA, got the results last Friday. He does not do forums or social media *smile*.

We are trying to figure out what all we need to order. For sure an APAP machine, humidifier, and mask. Is there anything else??? Any little incidentals we haven't thought about? Mask wipes, etc...

Wipes yes (nonalcoholic baby ones), and be sure the autopap gives lots more data than just 'compliance'. After those, the real answers will come once you see how he does and what may be needed then (tho' more equipment, apart from alternate mask tryouts, is not likely to be needed. What you should download is Sleepyhead software (tho' check with us that his machine's compatible), but that's free.

NormagiJoy wrote:We are trying to figure out what all we need to order.

From where are you ordering this?

Get a gallon of distilled water at the grocery store.

Wipes? I've never used them. My mask gets washed in mild soap.

Important: Before you order a machine, do you know which models are data capable, and which are "bricks"? - https://sleep.tnet.com/cmd

Do you know the difference between an APAP and a simple CPAP? Do you know that most of us insist on an APAP due to advanced features?

As a beginner, you would do well to get some experienced members to comment on the machine model before you order. Be specific about the model number.

Do you have to order the hose separately? I would order extra filters (one of my filters should be changed every 2 weeks) at the same time. Ask what other consumable supplies are needed and how often so you don't have to order supplies too often.

A cheap back up machine, like this resmed 10 autoset for $145...

http://tampa.craigslist.org/psc/for/5647763205.html

Hoses always come with machines and/or masks and are generally interchangeable with all.

distilled water!!! yes, I forgot to add that. I'm trying to add up the $$$ we need to get him up and running comfortably. Don't have the exact model number just yet, I need to look that up. We are looking at the PR DreamStation or the PR560. Definitely will get humidifier, not sure about heated hose, should we get that??? Are these considered "bricks'??? Will I be able to use Sleepy Head with them??? ok, I will get extra filters. We will be ordering from an online cpap retailer, haven't decided which one yet, I'm still comparison shopping. (Am I allowed to name them, is that against the rules???)

NormagiJoy wrote:We are looking at the PR DreamStation ... Are these considered "bricks'???

there are several different dreamstation models, avoid the base "CPAP" model, it's crap. (a brick).

check here: https://sleep.tnet.com/equipment/cpapmachines and avoid anything that says "NO" in data.

Look at Resmed Airsense10 autoset and the PR Dreamstation auto. Those are the 2 newest models and 2 most recommended brands. Our host https://www.cpap.com is a good place to start.
The heated hose works with the heated humidifier to keep the moist air from "raining" in the hose. I think most people would say get the heated hose.
Also, at some point in the future, you may want a hose cover. So google snugglehose . They help prevent the "click click" noise when the long hose rubs against the headboard. And feels better against the skin. ( I recommend one with a zipper).
Another note- most items last longer than what the replacement schedule says. You may not need to change your filter as often. Mine lasts for 3 months,easy. It just depends on the air quality in your house. (Pets hair, smoke, open windows) so don't go crazy thinking you need to buy a lot of filters.


Dawn blue dish soap or Baby shampoo is generally a good choice for cleaning. Just nothing with alcohol in it.

Common 'Bricks' - machines with 'Escape' or 'Plus' in the names... there are others, but those two are standout known ones.

palerider, I clicked on the link you provided, I don't see SleepyHead listed with the Dreamstation Auto??? It says Encore, but I think it's DreamMapper???

we do have two dogs that love to jump on the bed with us, so extra filters may come in handy...

the prices on the websites are jumping around, it's driving me crazy. Now the mask we picked out has dropped drastically.

don't see SleepyHead listed with the Dreamstation Auto???

Sleephead is software written by forum members. For more details see "Pudgsies tutorial...." thread in the first box.

I don't know if the tnet website has updated SH to show that it now works with the new DreamStation models...this just recently happened last spring with the latest version of SleepyHead so it will work now as long as you get the latest model.

DreamMapper is an online app type of website and it shows minimal data...pretty much what is seen on the LCD screen...pretty lame and not particularly helpful if someone is having a problem but I suppose it's a nice pat on the back thing if things are going well.

Encore is the official Respironics produced software that works on their Respironics machines. It's a huge bloated hog and slower than a crippled turtle but it has its place I suppose and it shows the same basic data that SleepyHead shows but just presents it visually a little differently.

Filters for the Respironics machines....EBay is a good source...shop carefully and don't forget Amazon.
Last month I got 48 generic filters for the PR S1 for $18 and that included shipping from an Amazon seller.
These were the hypoallerginic filters too. Usually the aftermarket generic filters are just fine when it comes to the disposable filters...I end up changing mine about once a month...I have dogs and cats and I live out in the country (dusty everywhere) in an old drafty farmhouse. You will be able to see how long you can go
You can go name brand filters if it makes you feel better but it really isn't needed. I have compared the generic filters to name brand and if I didn't see the name on the name brand I couldn't really see any difference.

Good timing - there was a great sale posted just today here. This is the best price we have ever seen for this machine brand new.

See this thread and comments from people like Pugsy: viewtopic/t112426/CPAPCom-selling-PRS-6 ... t-314.html

This is a great auto machine at a price that can't be beat. The humidifier and heated hose are also on sale so it would be wise to get them all at the same time. Total price for everything is $344. If you've started shopping for new machines, you'll realize how great a deal that is!

Since your husband is new to cpap, he may have to try some different masks to find out what works for him. cpap.com, our sponsor, has a terrific benefit for some masks - free return insurance. That way, if a mask doesn't work out, you can return it within 30 days and get your money back. I haven't heard of anyplace else that does this. The most popular nasal pillow mask both here and at cpap.com, btw, is the Resmed AirFit P10. I just checked and it does, indeed, still have the free return insurance.

Good luck! And post about any problems or issues your husband runs into.

NormagiJoy wrote:palerider, I clicked on the link you provided, I don't see SleepyHead listed with the Dreamstation Auto??? It says Encore, but I think it's DreamMapper???

we do have two dogs that love to jump on the bed with us, so extra filters may come in handy...

the prices on the websites are jumping around, it's driving me crazy. Now the mask we picked out has dropped drastically.

the link needs updating then, Krelvin, are you listening?

as of sleepyhead 1beta2, it mostly supports the dreamstation, thought there are some rough edges, nothing worth worrying about though.