CPAP Machine Maintenance: What You Should Know

If you have been told by a doctor that you need a CPAP machine to help you with sleep apnea, you are not alone. Millions of people use CPAP machines or similar devices because of respiratory issues while they sleep. When you go to get your CPAP machine, you may be overwhelmed with everything you have to do to work the machine, and you may be more worried about finding the right mask than about basic care and maintenance for your CPAP machine. Get to know some of the basics of CPAP machine maintenance. Then, you can be sure you are taking the best possible care of your CPAP machine going forward. 

Wipe Down the Surface Daily

You do not want dust, hair, or dirt to accumulate on your CPAP machine. It could get into the system and foul things up. It could also get into your breathing apparatus, which would be unpleasant for you as the user. 

As such, with a soft cloth or paper towel, just wipe down the surface of your CPAP machine daily. This will prevent that accumulation and keep your CPAP machine nice and clean on a daily basis. 

Only Use Distilled Water

When you are filling your CPAP machine with water, it can be tempting to just use tap water or regular bottled water. However, this would not be good for your CPAP machine. CPAP machines need distilled water to run properly. 

If you use another type of water in your CPAP machine, the minerals in the water can form deposits in the water tank and throughout the machine and tubing. This will make your CPAP machine less efficient and will eventually mean that you need to replace it entirely. This, of course, will happen sooner than it should because of the mineral deposits, meaning you may be out several hundred dollars out of pocket to replace it before insurance will cover a new one. 

Have the CPAP Machine Checked Every Year

Once a year, you should take your CPAP machine into the home medical supply location where you bought it and have it checked out by a technician. They will use a device to check the air pressure of the machine to make sure it matches what it says it is producing. 

If your CPAP is not producing enough air pressure, it may not be doing its job properly when you are sleeping. If this is the case, your CPAP machine will need to be repaired or replaced right away to ensure you are getting the air you need at night. 

Knowing these maintenance steps to take with your CPAP machine, you can be sure you are taking the best possible care of your machine from day one.