Need advice - Machine on craigslist/cpapauction.

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MichelleFL
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Need advice - Machine on craigslist/cpapauction.

Post by MichelleFL » Tue Oct 28, 2008 11:51 am

I sent the seller of this machine an e-mail for specifics. She said it was purchased in Feb. 2005, non smoking - no pet home. She says the blower has 82 hours on it. The thing is I think it is way overpriced at $400.00. Given that it was purchased in 2005 and looks like it is not a data capable machine I was thinking of offering her $100.00 for it. And she is in my area so that I can go to her home and physically check it out! How much would you offer her for the machine?

If she accepts my offer how do I check to make sure it works other than turning it on? I guess I should put water in the humidifier to see if it leaks.. Anything else?? Thanks and here is the listing.

Respironics REMstar plus with c-flex

http://ocala.craigslist.org/for/890891143.html


Thanks!
Last edited by MichelleFL on Wed Oct 29, 2008 7:25 am, edited 1 time in total.
Newbie to sleep apnea. Anxiety and panic attacks. If I can do it, you can too! It's not as bad as you think.. :)

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Wulfman
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Re: Need advice - Machine on craigslist.

Post by Wulfman » Tue Oct 28, 2008 12:31 pm

All things being equal.......this would be a "better" deal.

http://www.cpapauction.com/auction-list ... luded.html

As far as the one on Craigslist.....that one is WAAAAAAY overpriced. (but at least it's the one with C-Flex)
"Blower hours" are displayed in the screen when it's plugged in.
Pull out the filter (remove the cover in the back to see it) and see how dirty it may be.
You might want to take YOUR mask and hook it up to the machine and see if it smells like smoke (cigarette or otherwise).
Check humidifier tank for "whatever". They're a pretty good design, so if they're put together properly, they shouldn't leak.
If they used water in it other than distilled and heat, there may be some residue......but that COULD be cleaned or the tank replaced for a minimal amount.

MAYBE.....$100

Good luck.

Den
(5) REMstar Autos w/C-Flex & (6) REMstar Pro 2 CPAPs w/C-Flex - Pressure Setting = 14 cm.
"Passover" Humidification - ResMed Ultra Mirage FF - Encore Pro w/Card Reader & MyEncore software - Chiroflow pillow
User since 05/14/05

MichelleFL
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Location: Florida

Re: Need advice - Machine on craigslist.

Post by MichelleFL » Tue Oct 28, 2008 12:34 pm

Thanks Den! So you think that even $100.00 is too much for this machine?? And thank you for all the advice to check it out as well!

Edit to say... Yes the one on cpapauction looks like a good deal! But it's the starting bid.. I will keep an eye on it. Plus it would be nice to check it out as well..
Last edited by MichelleFL on Tue Oct 28, 2008 12:37 pm, edited 1 time in total.
Newbie to sleep apnea. Anxiety and panic attacks. If I can do it, you can too! It's not as bad as you think.. :)

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GumbyCT
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Re: Need advice - Machine on craigslist.

Post by GumbyCT » Tue Oct 28, 2008 12:36 pm

MichelleFL wrote:If she accepts my offer how do I check to make sure it works other than turning it on? I guess I should put water in the humidifier to see if it leaks.. Anything else?? Thanks and here is the listing.
Respironics REMstar plus with c-flex
http://ocala.craigslist.org/for/890891143.html
Thanks!
The good thing(s) this is an old classic tank. HH w/pre heat. Put hand on plate to check it works.

The bad - the Plus models are NOT data capable.
Write this down. Even if a Plus model has a smartcard it will ONLY tell you how long you had it ON. You will NOT get any useful data such as AHI, leaks, or pressure settings from a Plus model.

I wouldn't go putting water in it. The tanks actually have a much better HH and do NOT leak. Put this under the good things. If blower & heater turn on not much else to check, just look at the LCD to see that NO error messages show. The blower hours should be listed in the LCD too. Most people sleep 7-8 hrs each nite.

CraigsList (CL) is good cuz you can put your hands on it to test things out.

The bad things - CL is loaded with scams so buyer BEWARE.
http://www.craigslist.org/about/scams

CL also has DME's unloading things they can't get rid of any other way. $400 for this might be a clue this is someone just out to make a buck.

This machine will treat you at your pressure with out a doubt. So if you can get a deal on it - do it. You may come across something better in time. But if you are that eager get started and can get it for what you think is fair price then do it. If he'll take $100 - yea do it.

Anything more I'd let it go or post why he thinks it's worth more here.

I think I saw a manual in the photo but make sure you get the manual and ask if there are extra filters. Should be 1 gray foam and 1 white fine filter.

Good Luck,
GumbyCT

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BeganCPAP31Jan2007;AHI<0.5
I have no doubt, how I sleep affects every waking moment.
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MichelleFL
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Re: Need advice - Machine on craigslist.

Post by MichelleFL » Tue Oct 28, 2008 12:42 pm

Thank you Gumby! I live in the next town over so that is the only reason I am jumping on this one is because I can actually go to their house and check it out.. Anything else on craiglist that I could not check out "hands on" I would not even consider buying...

I am very eager to get my treatment started.. Like as in yesterday! As you said if they don't like what I offer they can sell it to someone else.. Just exploring all options right now to get started..
Newbie to sleep apnea. Anxiety and panic attacks. If I can do it, you can too! It's not as bad as you think.. :)

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Wulfman
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Re: Need advice - Machine on craigslist.

Post by Wulfman » Tue Oct 28, 2008 12:58 pm

MichelleFL wrote:Thanks Den! So you think that even $100.00 is too much for this machine?? And thank you for all the advice to check it out as well!

Edit to say... Yes the one on cpapauction looks like a good deal! But it's the starting bid.. I will keep an eye on it. Plus it would be nice to check it out as well..
That's probably about right......$100. But, I wouldn't go over that. There are lots of them available and if you don't see what you want at the moment......just wait awhile and there will be more. Also consider the fact that there wouldn't be a warranty on them, so they would be "expendable".
It all depends on what you're looking for.......a backup machine....just a "blower".....data capabilities.....C-Flex?
There are several on CPAPauction for $100 or less. Some aren't Respironics, but, like I said, it depends on what you want.

Even though the Plus models aren't data capable, I've been told that they're very quiet.

Den
(5) REMstar Autos w/C-Flex & (6) REMstar Pro 2 CPAPs w/C-Flex - Pressure Setting = 14 cm.
"Passover" Humidification - ResMed Ultra Mirage FF - Encore Pro w/Card Reader & MyEncore software - Chiroflow pillow
User since 05/14/05

MichelleFL
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Location: Florida

Re: Need advice - Machine on craigslist.

Post by MichelleFL » Tue Oct 28, 2008 1:10 pm

Well since this will be my first cpap machine I want the whole package.. But my pocket can only pay for the wrapping...

Also my insurance deductible is coming up in January and I would have to pay much more than a new machine would cost in the long run. BCBS wants me to rent it out for 10 months and I don't know how that is going to work. If that does not work out then I will try Awake in America and see what help they can give me. But if not then I am searching for something cheap but not really old to use for now..
Newbie to sleep apnea. Anxiety and panic attacks. If I can do it, you can too! It's not as bad as you think.. :)

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GumbyCT
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Re: Need advice - Machine on craigslist.

Post by GumbyCT » Tue Oct 28, 2008 1:13 pm

Wulfman wrote:All things being equal.......this would be a "better" deal.

http://www.cpapauction.com/auction-list ... luded.html
Den is absolutely right (but we knew that ) if you could get this for $200 it is a much better deal -

Condition Comments
Item is brand new used less than 2 hours.Items included nylon case, card,machine,humidifier,power cords,corugated tubbing, mask and filter.


The problem - it is a new seller with NO feedback so you're taking a chance.
OTOH - a new seller is not likely to want to mess things up on the 1st transaction.

I wouldn't forget about this one. Esp. if the other guy won't drop his price. I'd be willing to take a chance here.

GumbyCT

_________________
Humidifier: HC150 Heated Humidifier With Hose, 2 Chambers and Stand
Additional Comments: New users can't remember they can't remember YET!
BeganCPAP31Jan2007;AHI<0.5
I have no doubt, how I sleep affects every waking moment.
I am making progress-NOW I remember that I can't remember
;)
If this isn’t rocket science why are there so many spaceshots?
Be your own healthcare advocate!

MichelleFL
Posts: 200
Joined: Sat Sep 20, 2008 5:41 pm
Location: Florida

Re: Need advice - Machine on craigslist.

Post by MichelleFL » Tue Oct 28, 2008 1:39 pm

Wulfman wrote:All things being equal.......this would be a "better" deal.

http://www.cpapauction.com/auction-list ... luded.html
I sent an e-mail to the seller, this is indeed a much better deal as it has a data card. Crossing my fingers that I can begin my cpap soon!
Newbie to sleep apnea. Anxiety and panic attacks. If I can do it, you can too! It's not as bad as you think.. :)

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Wulfman
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Re: Need advice - Machine on craigslist.

Post by Wulfman » Tue Oct 28, 2008 1:47 pm

MichelleFL wrote:
Wulfman wrote:All things being equal.......this would be a "better" deal.

http://www.cpapauction.com/auction-list ... luded.html
I sent an e-mail to the seller, this is indeed a much better deal as it has a data card. Crossing my fingers that I can begin my cpap soon!
The Pro 2 is fully data-capable. It was my first machine and is a sentimental favorite.

I actually noticed this one a few days ago.....been watching it and wondering if it would get much attention.

I hope it works out for you.

Den
(5) REMstar Autos w/C-Flex & (6) REMstar Pro 2 CPAPs w/C-Flex - Pressure Setting = 14 cm.
"Passover" Humidification - ResMed Ultra Mirage FF - Encore Pro w/Card Reader & MyEncore software - Chiroflow pillow
User since 05/14/05

MichelleFL
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Location: Florida

Re: Need advice - Machine on craigslist.

Post by MichelleFL » Tue Oct 28, 2008 1:49 pm

Well forget this one, she said...

"Michelle: This is a good machine. It served my husband well. It is a complete package. I am sure the newer one you mentioned will cost a lot more. As I said, the humidifier accessory itself was a $250 option. That is a nice feature. The nose pillow is a lot less cumberson to wear then many other choices available. We understand your situation. You are not alone. We would be willing to let it go for $350, but that is firm. If you are interested in it for that price, we can arrange to meet so you can get and idea of how it looks etc. I don't think you would be disappointed."

I told her about this thread and even gave her the link on cpapauction.com for less than 50 bucks brand new.. Told her I cannot take her up on that offer.

Thanks for your help on this one!
Newbie to sleep apnea. Anxiety and panic attacks. If I can do it, you can too! It's not as bad as you think.. :)

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Wulfman
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Re: Need advice - Machine on craigslist.

Post by Wulfman » Tue Oct 28, 2008 1:59 pm

Sometimes......things happen (or don't) for a reason.

Den
(5) REMstar Autos w/C-Flex & (6) REMstar Pro 2 CPAPs w/C-Flex - Pressure Setting = 14 cm.
"Passover" Humidification - ResMed Ultra Mirage FF - Encore Pro w/Card Reader & MyEncore software - Chiroflow pillow
User since 05/14/05

jules
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Re: Need advice - Machine on craigslist.

Post by jules » Tue Oct 28, 2008 2:15 pm

I picked up an old machine for a few $ at a thrift store run by the senior center where I live.

Have you looked at thrift stores yet?

To buy on cpapauction you need a script on record. To buy at a thrift store or using craigslist, no script required.

MichelleFL
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Re: Need advice - Machine on craigslist.

Post by MichelleFL » Tue Oct 28, 2008 2:26 pm

I always am at thrift stores and nothing yet.. It's weird because I have never seen a cpap machine at a thrift store. Hopefully I will get lucky one day..
Newbie to sleep apnea. Anxiety and panic attacks. If I can do it, you can too! It's not as bad as you think.. :)

jules
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Re: Need advice - Machine on craigslist.

Post by jules » Tue Oct 28, 2008 2:41 pm

You might have to ask when you are there and know what different brands look like - one man from chat a few months ago said his coworker was told one was a baby bottle warmer.