Back Up Power - Need Help

Nodzy,
Let me know how it works, when you run the XPAP.

Lee Lee wrote: Let me know how it works, when you run the XPAP.

Lee Lee,
I certainly will. Though I have run it on the automotive BoostBox I list in my signature on posts. That particular model, VEC026 is discontinued, but worked really well. Too, on the infrequent nights that I use the humidifier it's only in passive mode... no heat. So, only the xPAP draws power -- far less current draw.

Be well,
Nodzy

Lee,
In afterthought, most computer back-UPS units I have experience with have an alarm that sounds every few seconds when the power (electricity) is OFF and the back-UPS unit has a load draw.

So, in order to use one without the warning sound, the case would have to be opened and the sound device would have to be cut-out of the circuit. If the sound device is circuit board mounted or integral to the board that could pose a real danger of damaging unit in any attempt to stop the warning signal from sounding. Small maybe, but that alteration could also pose a potential fire hazard.

Just a thought... but I wouldn't like hearing that shrill sound every few seconds just to have xPAP therapy... while that warning sound keeps me awake.

Nodzy

Nodzy,
Yeah, that would probably defeat the purpose of trying to get a good night's sleep!

Ok, Lee....

I'm sometimes dense.

That afterthought was spoken too soon. I forgot that the back-UPS user can depress the power button on the front of the back-UPS unit when it's serving onboard battery power to a load,... and that stops the warning beep. It's been so long since I've had a power outage on the computers.

So, the Belkin F6C1500-TW-RK unit will WORK, with only the number of beeps that occur before the CPAP user awakens to briefly depress the power button on the back-UPS unit once to acknowledge the power outage and automatic switch to battery backup. Too, the person may also have several other home matters to attend to when incoming home power fails.

Now, it's just a matter of testing the unit for durability for xPAP operation for a number of hours -- preferrably eight hours or more. Keep in mind, though, I run my humidifier in passive mode... no heat. So that reduces the total CPAP \ humidifier load on the back-UPS unit by more than half.

If that proves to be a GO for eight-plus hours I may try it with the humidifier heated for a night to measure the hours.

I'll keep you informed.

Nodzy

ColinP wrote:I'm currently trying to choose a UPS to do this, but am having plenty of difficulty trying to get information on the charging parameters (the battery having cost more than double what the UPS wiil, I want to give it the best charge I can to make it last long enough).

Colin -
I have a Best FE 700va which uses a 12v 35ah (UB12350) battery which I have considered modifying as you mentioned. It appears it would be quite easy but right now it is meeting my needs.

I think that is why many businesses simply buy new when the battery dies, it IS more cost effective Plus you get a warranty.

Lee -
If you are not opposed to the car jump starter idea - It has No bells & No whistles and its not quite automatic but does require you to be somewhat technical. I did use it last nite for 8hrs and will consider it an option for me should the power go out at home or for camping, etc.

For the Techies:
The blower did peak at 20cm for a period. The battery measured 12.2v with the blower on 12cm AFTER powering the blower for 8hrs. I think that is sufficient to call it successful (for me, if not for you). It is an option I didn't have when it was just sitting in the garage, on charge.

For me, I would want one with an AC inverter, simply to have that option available to me should the need arise.

I do like the Sears item# 02871488000 Mfr. model# 71488

or the VEC026BD which is available thru Walmart
for less than here

or HUSKY Jumpstarter System Model HSK037HD
avail @ Home Depot

Whatever You choose -
Good Luck,
GumbyCT

I received my Battery Geek Lithium Ion CPAP battery pack today, and it is charging right now. 18.5 AH (~2 nights), 3.5 lbs in a case the size of a hardback book. It can replace the power brick for my Auto M, so that works like a DC UPS; the CPAP runs off of the battery and the battery charger keeps it charged. The unit is designed so that it is safe to run the CPAP while the battery charger is attached.

Bearded_One wrote:I received my Battery Geek Lithium Ion CPAP battery pack today, and it is charging right now. 18.5 AH (~2 nights), 3.5 lbs in a case the size of a hardback book.

Very good - I for one will be very interested in your thoughts. How long does it say to charge it before use? Refresh my memory on the cost of that again?

Keep us posted and
Good Luck,
GumbyCT

I think the instructions said to charge it five hours. It was $400 plus $8.70 shipping from Island Wide Respiratory. It was supposed to come with a leather carryiing case, the carrying case is actually cordura with a couple of leather panels.