Masks, "rain" and cleaning.

I have just changed from a soft gel nasal mask to a nasal pillow type. This change is better for me as I am now able to sleep somewhat on my sides. However, I now notice more condensation collecting in my nostrils. I have an insulating "warming" sleeve covering most of the convoluted pipe and the machine is about 12-18 inches below the level at which I am sleeping. Any suggestions as to how to avoid this will be welcomed.

Also, how often should one clean the humidifier reservoir and the pipe? I left it for about 6 months last year and detected no ill effects.

Thanks in advance.

The recommeded time for replacing the humidifier chamber and the tubing is 6 months. If you have cleaned it on a regular basis it may out last that time frame but normally its 6 months. The rain out can be helped by adjusting the actual humidification on the machine.

You've done 2 things well to reduce rainout: covering the hose and placing the machine below the level of your bed. Other things to try would be turning the humidity off, or rigging a system to keep the hose above your head. This can be accomplished in several simple ways, such as using a plant hook or one of those Command adhesive hooks.

Machine manufacturers recommend cleaning the humidifiers and hoses rather more frequently than many users find convenient. Some people wash the humidifier every day, others rarely do it at all. Do what works best for you in that regard.