Why renewing your CPAP Machine and CPAP equipment is important to treat your symptoms of sleep apnea

Why taking care of your CPAP equipment is important

The life expectancy of CPAP machines differs based on the specific piece of equipment but in general, CPAP machines are used for three to five years. CPAP masks, however, should be replaced one time a year because CPAP masks feature a lot of individual parts that are heavily used and therefore wear out more quickly than other parts such as the cushions that usually begin to wear out before the strap or hose.

Beyond that, a mask’s headgear, cushion, and pillows can stretch out; the tubing can start to have tears or cracks and air filters can wear out. If any of this happens without replacement, your sleep apnea therapy may not be as effective. This is the reason why replacing your CPAP equipment regularly is so important. In fact, CPAP users who regularly replace their CPAP machine, equipment, and supplies report that they sleep more hours each night and use their therapy more nights of the week.

Proper maintenance of sleep apnea equipment is therefore essential for it to function properly and to maximize its life span. But, inevitably, the use and the passage of time may eventually cause the deterioration of some of its components. Using your CPAP equipment when it is not in the best condition can pose a risk to patients who use it to treat the symptoms of sleep apnea. Therefore, at the slightest sign of deterioration, and even more if there is any breakage, our advice is to renew your CPAP equipment as soon as possible.

How should I clean my CPAP machine?

A CPAP machine takes in-room air, filters it and then it delivers it under pressure through a tube and into your mask. This continuous flow of air stabilizes your breathing and improves your overall sleep quality. Keeping your CPAP machine clean helps you avoid bacteria and mold exposure. In theory, you should clean your tubing, mask, and water chamber daily but if this isn’t possible, make an effort to clean your CPAP machine at least once a week while following the manufacturer’s recommendations for cleaning your CPAP machine. Here you can find some, general guidelines:

• Disassemble your CPAP machine

• Unplug the device.

• Remove your mask and headgear from the tubing as well as the tubing from the CPAP machine.

• Remove the water chamber from the CPAP machine and soak carefully all parts of your CPAP machine

• Fill a basin with warm water and a small amount of dish soap and then submerge your tubing, mask, and headgear, allowing the parts to soak for at least 30 minutes, then rinse.

• Allow the CPAP parts to air dry before you clean the external surface with a soft cloth.

Can CPAP equipment that is not working perfectly cause sleep apnea symptoms to reappear?

Yes it can and with them, quality of life will be lost again and the chances of suffering coronary problems associated with the lack of oxygen in the blood will increase. Having a functional CPAP machine and up-to-date equipment for sleep apnea is not only necessary for the treatment of the disease but also to avoid the health consequences this condition can have.

Research is advancing rapidly in the field of medicine and health and has so far yielded important advances in the design of CPAPs machines and equipment, making them more and more comfortable for patients and generating less discomfort. Therefore, if the old continuous positive pressure equipment shows signs of deterioration, the best advice is to replace it with new, more comfortable equipment.

What are commons problems with CPAP equipment over time?

The use of sleep apnea equipment is continuous and prolonged every day and because of this, it is subject to logical wear and tears, especially on some of its components. This deterioration can manifest itself in different ways, from breakage to wear, discoloration, or stiffness of flexible elements. Breakage or leaks can also occur.

The mask is undoubtedly the most exposed and the one that can show these symptoms of wear and tear first, as is the case with the headgear. If masks lose softness or elasticity, not only will they be more uncomfortable, but there is also a risk that the machinery will lose effectiveness due to leaks. Another particularly important element is the machinery valve. Cracks, fissures, or any deformity are warning signs that should never be overlooked. Like masks or belts, they can be replaced.

There are other more serious problems that can affect the machinery and also the treatment of sleep apnea. These problems would be related to the humidifier not working properly, the equipment starting to generate loud sounds, or not providing adequate airflow. All these different problems can have a very negative impact on sleep apnea patients who use this equipment. And it is important to reemphasize that any deficiency in the operation means alterations in the user's rest and loss of efficiency that will also affect their health and daily life.

What are the best reasons to renew sleep apnea equipment and machine?

Deterioration and breakdowns are the main reasons for renewing therapy equipment, but not the only ones. There is another reason that should also be carefully considered. The application of new technologies, for example, has enabled the development of mobile applications that, in connection with the patient's equipment, allow better control and monitoring of the therapy, both by the patient and the specialist. This aspect has meant a huge advance in the treatment of sleep apnea.

Devices have also been developed specifically designed for certain types of patients, such as women suffering from sleep apnea. Not to mention sophisticated software that is incorporated into the monitoring equipment and allows parameters to be quickly reconfigured to suit the patient's needs.

In short, although any problem in the machinery should always lead to considering its replacement, it is not necessary to wait until it breaks down to change it. Check with your insurance provider to find out if you’re eligible to regularly replace; your CPAP equipment or talk to your doctor to see whether he or she is aware of these recommended resupply timeframes. Doing so will ensure that your sleep apnea therapy is as consistent and effective as possible.

CANADA'S WIDE SELECTION OF CPAP MACHINES, CPAP MASKS & CPAP ACCESSORIES

No matter where you are in your sleep apnea journey, the CPAP King has you covered. If you are looking for brand-new equipment and CPAP machines at the lowest price, you're definitely at the right place.  We offer you the top-recommended brands for CPAP Machines, CPAP Pillow Masks, Nasal Masks, Full Face Masks, CPAP Supplies, and Sleep Accessories at a fraction of the price. Order now and take advantage of free shipping and no-hassle return policies across Canada. You don't need to break your wallet to get the sleep you deserve! 

Do you have questions? Call us toll-free at 866-476-4821 or start chatting now with one of our CPAP experts today.