Clonking noise from mask

Hi folks

I washed my full-face mask thoroughly for the first time yesterday, in soapy water. Then I hung it up to dry. I honestly have no idea if this is the usual practice -- until then I'd just wiped it down.

Anyway, when I put the gear on again last night, there was a weird clonking noise from the mask every time I breathed. I thought perhaps some water had gotten trapped in it, and was flapping about under the pressure. But I couldn't see any signs of water in the parts of the mask I could actually see into. I ignored it and went to sleep and, when I awoke, the noise had stopped.

Is this a normal finding? Is it appropriate/safe to wash a CPAP mask thoroughly?

Best wishes
Lars.

I’m not familiar with the Hoffrichter masks, but I assume that it is the anti asphyxia valves making the clonking noise. From the pictures on their website it looks to have the valve where the bend is in the tube connection in front of the mask, so next time you clean it check that it is dry before using. You can also do a “mask fit” before bed after cleaning to help clear out the water.

You do need to be careful if using some kind of brush to clean out the moving parts so you do not damage the valve(s). Something to keep in mind for future cleanings.

Jlfinkels wrote: ↑

Fri Dec 24, 2021 8:50 am

From the pictures on their website it looks to have the valve where the bend is in the tube connection in front of the mask, so next time you clean it check that it is dry before using.

Thanks. Yeah, that's where the valve is. I'm not sure what the valve flap is made of -- it seems very thin compared to the rest of the mask. I think you're right -- it was probably holding water. I hung it out to dry for quite a few hours, but perhaps it isn't long enough? Perhaps they're not even designed to be submerged in water?

Best wishes
Lars.

Washing mask intervals is as contentious a subject as tap vs distilled water. I used a full face mask for 9 months and washed it once a month, but others do it more or less often. If your machine has a “mask fit” or other similar setting try using that before bed to help dry things out.

Or use a hair dryer--set on LOW, of course.