CHANGE YOUR FILTER!!!

Sleepless on LI wrote:Kemosabe,

What is the recommended span to replace your machine's hose? I never thought of that one...I figured if you felt air coming out from part of it, that it would definitely be time to do it. But do they recommend doing it as a precautionary measure at a certain interval?

Maybe these silver bullets will explain , my DME says twice a month, thats what insurance covers

I love these reminder tips! I actually forgot how long it has been- I usually write it on my calender, but since it is a new year, didn't have my new calender up. Now I put it on my computer calender.

On another note, my DME charged my ins. more for 2 paper filters that cpap.com charges for 6. Plus, since they will only send me 2 at a time, I am calling them more often. A real pain.

neversleeps wrote:This is from cpap.com FAQ:

How often should I replace my CPAP hose?

CPAP hoses can last a long time, sometimes up to a year if taken care of properly.

Signs of wear are dry, cracked places on the inside lining or on the rubber ends; "stretch marks" near the rubber ends; and minieral deposits or mold from water left inside the hose.

Your CPAP hose will last longer if you detach it every morning and hang it to air dry. It should be removed by grasping it on the rubber ends, rather than on the hose itself. A "Hose Quick Connect" is available to help remove and replace the hose more easily.

Drying the hose each morning will also prevent bacteria from growing in the damp interior and help reduce the possibility of colds and other health issues.

If you are not drying the hose daily, then be sure to replace the hose very frequently as negative health issues will result!

Sorry, but I disagree strongly with cpap.com's interval for hose replacement. Mine has now been in use for 2 years and 3 months, and show no signs of deterioration. My new DME provider (a godsend) insisted that I at least have a spare on hand, but he too agreed that my original hose was in fine shape. We even tested it for leaks by attaching it to the CPAP, and submersing the hose in water.

Also, I do NOT disconnect the hose every day and hang it up. I wash it thoroughly every two weeks, and inspect it for cracks, holes and any yucky stuff. I use it with a humidfier every night, and have had absolutely no "negative health issues."

As for the filters, the paper filter should always be changed monthly, and the foam filter should be washed and replaced weekly. After six months, the foam filter should be replaced.

Let's not get too obsessive about the equipment, OK?