ResMed has officially introduced the new AirSense 11 CPAP. Luckily, here are CPAPmyway we were able to participate in the limited early release of the AirSense 11. This has allowed us to get feedback and experience with hundreds of customers on this new CPAP. Some of these customers were first time users, and many of them are long-time users that have upgraded. Reviews so far have been great, and we expect that feedback to continue. This new CPAP is much smaller than the previous model which means that it gives you a bit more space on the nightstand. It has a much more modern design and features a great new touchscreen.
What’s new on the AirSense 11 CPAP:
When ResMed was designing the AirSense 11 they had a problem. The AirSense 10 has been one of the most loved CPAP machines of all time. So how can you improve something without throwing out all the things that everyone loved about the original. Well, ResMed figured it out. The AirSense 11 has some striking upgrades as well as some really nice similarities to what we loved about the AirSense 10. ResMed kept the front-facing screen which is very popular, the integrated humidifier system, and simple operation.
AirSense 11 Upgrades:
Full color touchscreen allows you to navigate the patient level menu with ease. Touchscreen is a must on pretty much all devices today. My kids don’t even understand what is happening when they can’t navigate a menu with touchscreen.
Over the air communication allows the AirSense 11 not only to communicate compliance and therapy data with ease, but also low allows for software upgrades wirelessly as well.
Smaller footprint on the nightstand– The Air11 is about 25% smaller than the previous model. Meaning you have more space for all those other things you keep on the nightstand. Additionally the smaller footprint allows for a smaller travel case. Saving you room and effort when traveling.
3 CPAPs in one– The Auto version of the AirSense 11 features not only the ResMed Auto Titrating CPAP algorithm, but also can be run in fixed CPAP mode and AutoSet for her Auto Titrating mode.
How to change the settings on my AirSense 11:
There are a few settings that allow you to personalize your AirSense. Some of these functions may not be available if they have been restricted by the provider. In order to make the changes you must first access the menu by tapping the “My Options” selection on the Home screen. Next you would tap the parameter that you wish to change. Then tap the setting you wish to change to and then tap OK to confirm the change. You can also tap Cancel to go back to the previous screen.
Ramp Time: Period during which the pressure increases from a low start pressure to the prescribed treatment pressure. Ramp Time can be set to Off, 5 to 45 minutes (in 5-minute increments), or Auto.
Pressure Relief: When EPR (Expiratory Pressure Relief) is enabled, you may find it easier to breathe out. This setting can help you get used to therapy.
SmartStart: When SmartStart is enabled, therapy starts automatically when you breathe into your mask.
SmartStop: When SmartStop is enabled, therapy stops automatically after a few seconds when you remove your mask.
Mask Fit: This function helps you assess and identify possible air leaks around your mask.
How to Set Up your AirSense 11 CPAP:
Place the Air11 on a stable and level surface
Connect the power cord into the power inlet at the rear of the device. Connect one end of the power cord into the AC adaptor and the other end into the power outlet. Ensure the device is set up and connected to power to enable settings to be applied wirelessly to the device if required.
Connect the air tubing firmly to the outlet connector at the rear of the device.
Open the humidifier tub and fill it with water.
The humidifier tub must be removed from the device before adding water.
If using the HumidAir 11 Cleanable water tub, use drinking quality water (potable).
Fill the water tub up to the maximum water level mark. The humidifier tub has a maximum capacity of 380 mL.
Close the humidifier tub and insert it into the side of the device.
Connect the free end of the air tubing firmly onto the assembled mask.
How to Clean and Maintain your AirSense 11:
Many CPAP users have their own methods and habits for maintaining their CPAP machines. Our opinion is that if you have had no issues with your current methods for cleaning and maintaining your CPAP, then you can apply those same methods to the new AirSense 11 without concern. However, there is a “right way” to Clean and Maintain your CPAP according to ResMed. Below is the ResMed recommendation. All of this can be found in the ResMed AirSense 11 User Manual as well.
Daily:
Empty the humidifier tub and wipe it thoroughly with a clean disposable cloth. Allow it to dry out of direct sunlight.
Refill the humidifier tub.
If using the HumidAir 11 Standard water tub, use distilled water only
If using the HumidAir 11 Cleanable water tub, use drinking quality water (potable).
Weekly:
Wash the components as described:
Air tubing – in warm water using a mild dishwashing liquid.
Humidifier tub – in warm water using a mild dishwashing liquid OR in a solution with a ratio of 1 part vinegar and 9 parts water at room temperature.
Outlet connector – in warm water using a mild dishwashing liquid OR in a solution with a ratio of 1 part vinegar and 9 parts water at room temperature.
Components should not be washed in temperatures higher than 131ºF (55ºC).
Rinse each component thoroughly in water.
Allow to dry out of direct sunlight or heat
Wipe the exterior of the device with a dry cloth.
Notes:
The humidifier tub and outlet connector may be washed in a dishwasher.
Do not wash the air tubing in a dishwasher or washing machine.