When you purchase a Portable Oxygen Concentrator you have spent a large amount of money on an item that is critical to your life. More than likely, you are looking to gain more freedom and independence. Just as important as the make and model of Portable Oxygen Concentrator you purchase is the company that you purcahse it from. How do they support you and what can you expect from them in the future. Here we discuss how we at CPAPmyway support you after the Portable Oxygen Concentrator purchase.

Warranties for our Portable Oxygen Concentrators

Every POC (Portable Oxygen Concentrator) has a manufacturer warranty that begins on the day you purchase the unit. Those warranties are from the manufacturer and while the time frames may be very similar between them, the process may not be. For instance, we have one manufacturer that requires all of their products to go back to their factory for repairs. While another allows one of our local repair companies to repair their POCs under warranty. The timeline for how long you are without your POC varies by weeks between the two. We will always work to coordinate the quickest possible repair option for your POC if it ever goes down. So, we will act as the go-between if you ever have issues. Simply reach out to us during regular business hours and we will coordinate the rest. You can also checkout our Warranty Page here to understand our warranty process fully.

Top 4 Issues with Portable Oxygen Concentrators:

There are 4 things that we see very often from people using POCs. When these things happen you typically get an alarm and alert that something is wrong. This can be concerning for the user, especially if they are away from home. Luckily these issues are typically resolved quickly and on your own. Let’s look at those in detail below:

1. No breath detected

   Most POCs are “pulse-dose” which means that they deliver the oxygen to you on inhalation. That means that it has to detect your inhalation to dose the oxygen to you. If your nasal cannula is out of your nostrils or there is a restriction or kink in your tubing it may miss your breath. If this happens your POC will alarm, and you will have to adjust the tubing and take some deep breaths to correct this issue.

2. Low Battery

   This is usually the most obvious issue that occurs. Your POC will alarm to let you know that you are nearing the end of your battery life. To clear up this issue, you simply connect back to your home or car charger. You can continue to use the POC even while it recharges.

3. POC is overheating

   This is another common issue. The POC must have plenty of circulation to keep itself cool. If you cover it up or put it in a confined space, it will overheat. If this occurs, then you have to shut the machine down. Once you shut it down, it is best to unplug it and take the battery off to help it cool faster. Usually, 5 minutes will do the trick. Then you can start the POC back up and get back to regular breathing.

4. Low purity/sieve bed replacement needed

   As the sieve bed filters in your POC go bad, the oxygen purity will start to go down. At this point your POC will alarm to indicate that it is time to change the sieve beds. Some POCs will say, “check vent”, “replace columns”, or “low purity”. You usually will have a couple weeks after that first alarm to replace the sieve beds before you are at a critical point. Contact us to let us know this is happening and we will work to get your maintenance taken care of.

What do I do if my Portable Oxygen Concentrator is out for repair?

We very rarely have major breakdowns on the POCs that we sell. That is why we carry the models that we do, and do not carry others. A repair issue for you is a repair issue for us, and we don’t like issues. However, sometimes things go wrong. That is why if your POC goes down during the first year after your purchase and has to go back for warranty repair, we will issue you a loaner (as long as inventories allow). That loaner may not be the exact model that you have, but we will get you by until your POC is repaired and returned. Even after that year we offer a discounted rental rate for a rental POC if you need one while yours is out for repair. Rest assured we will do everything we can in these circumstances to get you back up and running quickly.

What kind of maintenance is needed on my Portable Oxygen Concentrator?

All POCs require some sort of maintenance. For maintenance details on each POC you can visit the individual POC that you are interested in here. For most POCs, there are some basic things that need maintenance. Let’s detail them below for you.

• External Filters– Most POCs have a filter where the air intake is. This filter is built to collect dust and particles before they enter your machine. These filters are usually rinsed or replaced at regular intervals. They are a critical piece of maintenance on your POC.
• Internal Sieve Bed Filters– All Oxygen Concentrators have Sieve Bed Filters. These filters filter the oxygen out of the air so that you can just breathe in the pure Oxygen. Over time they will go bad. In most cases you can expect 1-2 years of lifespan on these filters. That will depend on how much you use your POC and where you use your POC. Warranties on the sieve beds are usually 1 year but can be longer for some models.
• Batteries– Just like any other device in your life, your POC most likely has a lithium-ion battery internally. They are good batteries and will typically last a long time. However, they will wear down over time. If you begin to see a reduction in battery duration it may be time to replace your battery. Luckily most models allow you to do that yourself easily. Batteries are almost always warrantied for one year.
• Tubing and cannulas– These parts are disposable and should be changed out regularly. Discoloration and kinking are signs that they should be replaced immediately.

What can I do to make my Portable Oxygen Concentrator last?

There are a few things to keep in mind about POCs in reference to how and where you use and store it. These things can dramatically improve the longevity of your device.

• Do not Smoke around the POC– Your device is constantly circulating your room air through internal filters. Smoke is the number one thing that clogs these filters.
• Keep external filters clean– If the POC cannot breathe well, it will overheat and can also cause serious issues with the compressor.
• Store the POC in air conditioned when not is use– If you leave your POC in your hot car or outside it will hurt your battery longevity.
• Keep the POC charged– If you store your POC away and do not charge it regularly it can hurt the duration of your battery.

After hours service for my Portable Oxygen Concentrator

We do not have after hours service or emergency service for Portable Oxygen Concentrators. We are happy to serve any needs that you have during regular business hours. The POCs that we offer are meant to be accessory items to oxygen services that you already have at home. We are not intending to be your primary oxygen provider.

It has been a while since we have had the pleasure of demonstrating a new Travel CPAP, so we are excited. The Transcend Micro has all the features that you need from a Travel CPAP in an incredibly small package. This Travel CPAP will literally fit in the palm of your hand. It is just 0.5 lbs and is less than 4 inches wide and tall. This makes it about the size and shape of a baseball. Let’s take a deeper dive on this great new Travel CPAP.

Transcend Micro Features

This new Travel CPAP isn’t just super small. It incorporates all of the comfort features that the other options have. That list starts with the comfortable and effective Auto CPAP algorithm. The auto algorithm adjusts to meet your needs in a very comfortable fashion. The Micro is compatible with any CPAP mask which is another great pro. Additionally, the AirRelief setting which is similar to EPR on ResMed or Flex on a Respironics CPAP. This makes exhalation just a bit easier. Another great feature is the  GentleRise ramp feature. This allows you to fall asleep with lower pressure while it gently climbs to your therapy setting. The Transcend Micro also has Bluetooth connectivity that will connect to your smartphone via the MySleepDash app.

Transcend Micro Pros and Cons:

The Transcend Micro is a great Travel CPAP option. It is small, lightweight and very easy to pack away for your next trip. Your tubing will take up more space than your CPAP. It has some limitation like any other. So, let’s break down the details.

Transcend Micro Pros:

• Incredibly Small- At the time of this writing the Transcend Micro is the smallest Travel CPAP Available. It is about the size and shape of a baseball.
• Very Simple– There are 4 buttons on the Transcend Micro, and more than likely you will only use one. No complicated screens or menus to deal with.
• Bluetooth connectivity– The Micro has blueooth built in that will connect your data to your smartphone. A great feature for those looking to track results.
• Universal Mask Connection– You can use any CPAP mask on the market on the Micro. No need to make wholesale changes for your new Travel CPAP. Just hook it up to your current mask.

Transcend Micro Cons:

• No Heated Humidification– Similar to other Travel CPAPs, the Transcend Micro does not have a heated humidifier. Instead, it can only be used with an HME (Heat Moisture Exchanger) for humidification.
• A little louder than other options– It is a little louder than some of other Travel CPAP options, but not by much. Additionally, it has the whispersoft muffler which helps to further reduce noise.
• Specific Tubing– The Micro Travel CPAP must be used with the Specific AirFlex Micro tubing. It has a very unique connection that only works with the tubing that come with it. Luckily, the mask side of the tubing is universal.
• External DC converter– I know that you can’t have your cake and eat it too…..but. The Micros DC converter cord does add some extra size. Additionally, on the Transcend 3 Travel CPAP the converter had built-in adapters for worldwide travel. The micro has only the general AC adapter included.

Setting up your Transcend Micro Travel CPAP

Setup of the Transcend Micro is super simple and very similar to other CPAPs. The unit should come preset to your specific prescription by your CPAP supplier. Follow the Steps below for proper setup:

1. Connect your power by inserting the rounded plug into the round hole on the bottom of your Transcend Micro.
2. Insert your AirFlex tubing to the front of the Micro CPAP by lining up the arrows, inserting and twisting right to lock into place.
3. Add on your CPAP mask to the universal 22mm connection at the other end of your AirFlex tubing.

What is the Drying Mode on the Transcend Micro?

The Drying mode on the Transcend micro has nothing to do with the CPAP itself. It is built to dry out your mask and tubing after you use it. All that needs to be done is to press the Dry Mode button on the far right of the Micro after you turn it off in the morning. It will run through a 30-minute cycle that will push dry air through your tubing and mask to ensure that it is all dried and ready for your next use.

Transcend Micro Cleaning and Maintenance

Cleaning the Machine:

The Cleaning instructions in the Manual are kinda funny to me. It gives you specific soap to water ounces quantities, specific cloth recommendations, and wiping techniques. I think that it is a bit simpler than that. Wipe it down every now and then with a damp cloth. Don’t use chemicals or submerge it. Pretty easy.

Micro Filter:

The filter is located on the right side of the Micro if your tubing connection is the front. There is a little grated filter cap that you pull off to expose the filter. Pull out the filter once per week, rinse it out, dry it and put it back in. Put the filter cap back on and you are done. The Transcend Micro filter should be replaced about every 6 months.

Tubing and Mask:

Similar to all others your mask and tubing should be cleaned at least once per week. A warm soapy water mix. Submerge and scrub. Then air dry and reconnect.

Top Accessories for Transcend Micro CPAP

The Transcend Micro Travel CPAP has a few additional accessories available. The first would be the PowerAway P8 battery. This battery should run the Micro for 2-3 nights between charges. Another great accessory is the Whispersoft Muffler. This helps to reduce the sound of the air moving through the tubing. The last accessory is the Transcend AirMist HME. This allows you to keep your airways humidified without having to use a heated humidifier.

 

It always reeks of a “sales pitch” when a company tells you that you need to buy more of what they sell. So, in this blog I am going to do my best to keep the sales part down and the information part up. The fact of the matter is that you MUST change parts on your CPAP from time to time to avoid significant issues. Most of the issues caused by procrastinating on this maintenance are slow creeping issues. You may not even notice that they are becoming issues until you have a big issue. There are 3 things in my opinion that must be changed out regularly. Mask Seal, CPAP filter and CPAP tubing. Let’s dive deeper on each below.

When to change out your CPAP Mask seal:

The mask seal is probably the most critical component of your CPAPs functionality. If you have a bad seal, you will have bad therapy. This is for a lot of reasons but is especially serious when you are on an Auto CPAP. Which MANY CPAP users are these days. That is because when the mask doesn’t seal the CPAP tries to make up for the leak by increasing airflow. Which almost always creates a worse leak. This snowballs until you call your provider and tell them that the CPAP isn’t working. To avoid this issue changing out the mask seal before it goes bad is the best bet. So how do you know when?

1) Are you tightening your CPAP Mask headgear more?

The first sign of a CPAP Mask seal going bad is the tightening of the headgear. For over a month your mask has sealed really well, and now you are having to tighten the headgear a bit more every other night. This is almost certainly because the seal is beginning to wear out. When the silicone on the mask seal starts to deteriorate, it gets flimsy and starts to leak. To account for this leak, you pull the straps tighter on the mask. It solves the issue for tonight, but just returns in the nights to come. Eventually, you cause yourself abrasion issues on the high-pressure points and have to go a few nights without CPAP while the bridge of your nose heals. All of this would have been avoided if you had just changed out that seal when you noticed the first sign of leaking.

2) Are your Therapy reports getting worse?

Almost all CPAP machines have an app or an ability to report your CPAP therapy statistics. To learn more about those reports visit our therapy report blog here. Most of those reports will give you a “leak” rating. You will notice that rating stays pretty steady when you are doing well on your CPAP. Then, just like the headgear issue, it begins to slide. You will notice that the leak LPM may go up gradually or that your Mask Seal score is going down. This is your opportunity to avoid the critical failure and get a new mask seal.

3) Having trouble sleeping in your normal position?

When you first started with your new favorite mask you were sleeping so well in that favorite position. Now, you get there and wake up to your spouse poking you because your mask is whistling. You have to ask yourself, “what has changed?”. It is almost always the seal. Therapy pressures typically stay pretty similar once you get settled in on your CPAP. So, while you might think it is the CPAP changing and causing the issue, it is most likely not.

4) Is your CPAP Pressure getting too high?

This is probably the most difficult issue we face when CPAP users procrastinate on changing out the seal. A TON of CPAP users are on Auto CPAP. Click here to learn what “Auto CPAP” is. When you are on Auto CPAP the CPAP will adjust the pressure to account for your apnea. It will also attempt to account for leaks in the same way. This means that when your mask seal goes bad, the CPAP may increase pressure to account for the leak. This in turn makes the leak worse and worse. The worst part about this issue is that even after you resolve the leak by changing out the seal, you still may have a few nights before the pressure comes back down on the Auto-CPAP.

When to change out your CPAP filter:

This is by far the simplest and cheapest thing that you have to maintain on your CPAP. Failing to maintain the filter is also the number one reason why CPAPs fail. There is no reason not to change out your CPAP filter at least once per month. They are a couple dollars at most and take 2 seconds to change out. I recommend checking them weekly to look for discoloration and to change them as soon as you see any dust or dirt. For people with pets this is especially important. You do not even realize how much pet dander is in the air, and that CPAP filter is catching it all.

What happens when you don’t change the CPAP filter?

If you leave a dirty filter in the CPAP, it will get worse and worse until the CPAP cannot even pull enough air to maintain your proper pressure. Time and time again we have customers come in saying that the CPAP isn’t blowing enough anymore. We open the filter door and call the hazmat team to remove the black filter inside. Then the CPAP is working again. Not only can the dirty filter cause therapy issues, but it will eventually destroy the CPAP motor. Like any motor, the CPAP motor works well when it is able to move freely. When it is strained it causes issues. You will usually notice some groaning coming from the CPAP at first, then it gets louder. At this point the CPAP is shot and will need to be repaired or replaced. Check out our CPAP repair blog for more details on that. 

When to change out your CPAP Tubing?

This is another part that is pretty inexpensive to change out. As long as you are using regular CPAP tubing. If you are on heated tubing it can be more expensive. If you aren’t sure that you should be on heated tubing, check out our blog discussing that topic here. My sole recommendation on the CPAP tubing is to have an extra one on hand. It simply cannot hurt to have an extra. The signs of needing to change out the tubing in advance of it failing are pretty simple:

Signs of it being time to change the tubing:

• Mask will not stay attached
• Breaks or tears in the tubing
• Stretched plastic at the connection point
• Tubing is pulling lose from the CPAP
• Heated tube is no longer humidifying me

Adjustment of your humidifier setting on your AirSense 11 CPAP is super simple. It can even be set to an “auto” mode where the AirSense 11 will adjust. With that being said you should know how it works and what options you have on your AirSense 11.

Manual Adjustment of the AirSense 11 Humidifier

Let’s start off with the manual adjustment option. With this option you simply adjust the setting up or down to account for your comfort. If you are dry when you wake up, then you need to increase the setting. If you wake up with excess condensation or water in your tube, then you should adjust it down. Usually adjusting it in increments of 1 per night is the best bet. Drastic adjustments make it hard to determine what your best setting is. If you are using heated tubing skip to the next section below. Now let’s walk through how to adjust the standard AirSense 11 humidifier settings in detail.

Step by Step Instructions:

   

1. Access the Patient Level Menu by pressing “My Options” on the main screen. If you do not see that option press the little house icon in the top left to navigate back to your home screen.
2. The second setting down should be “Humidity Level”. Press that option to access the settings levels.
3. Now you will see the settings options. From “off” to the highest setting of 8. Select your desired setting. Remember to adjust in small increments.
4. Press Ok to confirm the settings change. Then press the house icon to navigate back to your main home screen.

Using a heated tube on the AirSense 11 CPAP for humidity

When you add the AirSense 11 heated tube into the mix you add in a really cool feature… complete automation. When you first plug on your ClimateLineAir heated tube the settings will configure to “Auto” for climate control and for tube temp. In this setting the AirSense 11 will adjust itself to maximize humidity without causing excess condensation. It does this by monitoring your rooms temperature and humidity levels. I recommend everyone start in this setting. If it works, then you are good to go. If not, you can use the instructions below to adjust the humidity setting manually.

Manual humidifier adjustment with heated tube:

     

1. Access the Patient Level Menu by pressing “My Options” on the main screen. If you do not see that option press the little house icon in the top left to navigate back to your home screen.
2. Press the “Climate Control” setting to access that menu.
3. Press “Manual” to change from Auto to manual humidifier setting. Then press the “OK” button.
4. Next press the “Tube Temp” setting to change your temperature.
5. Select the desired temperature and press “OK” to confirm. Tube temperature should be adjusted up as needed to account for excess condensation in tubing or mask.
6. Next press “Humidity Setting” to access the humidity settings.
7. Then press the setting you desire, then “OK”, then Home Icon. Remember to adjust a little at a time. Increase setting to add humidity and reduce to reduce humidity.

 

For decades when you hear someone in the CPAP world speaking about a Nasal CPAP mask you think of a clown nose style mask. It surrounds the nose and seals over top of the bridge of the nose. That is a classic nasal mask. Then there was the Nasal Pillow style. This style had small nasal buds that rested on the nostrils to create a seal. Now there is a hybrid style that cradles under the nose. The Cradle-Style CPAP masks give you the ability to seal under the nose like the pillow style while still giving you a similar experience as the traditional nasal style.

What is a Nasal Cradle Style CPAP Mask?

These masks have been around for a few years now and were pioneered by Philips. However, now there are options from all of the other manufacturers that work really well. Each of them has their own pros and cons though. Philips has the DreamWear Nasal Cradle mask. ResMed has the N30i as well as the N30 cradle style. Then you have Fisher and Paykel who has the Evora. All of these masks seal under the nose in a “cradle-style”, but they all have significant differences. Let’s take a deeper dive on each.

DreamWear Nasal Cradle CPAP Mask

The DreamWear was the first CPAP Mask of this style to really catch on. A big reason why is because it worked very well. It has an over the top of the head tube connection which was also game changing for many CPAP users. The frame of the DreamWear Nasal has a ton of flexibility, because it also fits the DreamWear Full and DreamWear Pillows. This mask cushion is available in Small, Medium, Large and Wide. The DreamWear frame is available in Small, Medium, and Large, and the headgear is a standard size. That gives this mask a ton of flexibility. Let’s run through the detailed pros and cons of the DreamWear Nasal.

DreamWear Nasal Cradle Pros:

• Top of the head tube connection– This feature allows CPAP users to move side to side without dragging a tube across their body. Great for side sleepers.
• Easy quick connect– Allows you to snap your tubing on and off very easily when you need to get up in the middle of the night.
• Soft silicone cushions– The cushion that seal under your nose is very soft and silky. This helps to prevent skin contact issues that cause abrasion or discomfort.
• Headgear Arms– The headgear arms that are now standard on this mask allow the headgear strap to ride lower on the back of the head. Reducing the chance of the strap slipping up the back of the head and breaking seal.

DreamWear Nasal Cradle Cons:

• Exhalation draft– The port on the front of the cradle allowing you to exhale can be a bit drafty and noisy.
• Tubing on sides of face– The frame of this mask is what carries the air down to your nose from the top. For some users this tubing is a little too thick and can be uncomfortable. There are soft covers that come with the mask to help with this. Additionally, if the side tube is pinched off some users have reported that they can hear it a bit.
• Side of nose leaks– The cradle on the DreamWear Nasal is flatter than some of the other option. This can cause leaks up the side of the nose.

N30 Nasal Cradle Mask

The N30 from ResMed is a really cool cradle option. It takes many popular features from the P10 Nasal Pillow and adds in the positives of a cradle mask. The N30 also features the same headgear as the P10 which is really thin and stretchy. It has a front of the mask tube connection which gives the mask a more traditional fit. The cushion size is available in Small, Medium, and Small-Wide. The Adjustable headgear fits most heads very well. Let’s look at the detailed pros and cons of the N30.

N30 Pros:

• Stretchy headgear is really comfortable– The headgear on the N30 is very thin and stretchy. This makes it very easy to take it on and off plus gives a comfortable fit.
• Deep cradle provides an effective seal– Side wings of the cushion allow the N30 to seal very well. Especially for users that have had issues with other cradles leaking to the sides of the nose.
• Quiet and diffused exhalation– There is little to no exhalation draft at all. That means you and your bed partner won’t hear or feel the exhalation.
• Easy cushion removal– No clips or tricks. The cushion slips on and off the frame easily and will only go on one way. Very simple.

N30 Cons:

• Headgear is tough to take on and off the frame– When it is time for maintenance on the N30 you should take the headgear off the frame. The way that it attaches makes it really difficult. Plus, it is easy to put it on backwards.
• Headgear can wear out quickly– The stretchiness of the headgear provides a very comfortable fit. However, when it loses its stretch that pro becomes a bit of a con. Replacement headgear can be purchased separately but will need to be replaced more often than others.
• No quick-connect for tubing– You do not have the option of disconnecting the tubing and leaving the mask on. This mask is so easy to fit that this may not be an issue, but this is a feature that most others have.

Evora Nasal Cradle CPAP Mask

This is a great new mask from Fisher and Paykel. Fisher always does a great job on masks. They make some of our absolute favorites. The Evora has a traditional front of the face tube connection but has a really unique headgear and fit. The “ball-cap” style fit allows you to slip the mask on and off like a hat. The cushion size is available in Small, Medium, Wide and Large. The headgear is standard, but very adjustable. Let’s dive on the high and low points.

Evora Pros:

• Headgear is very unique– The “ball-cap” style headgear is very unique. Once you have it sized it slips on and off like a baseball hat. It is also very long-lasting.
• Effective fit– The stability of this mask is top notch in the cradle-mask category. The headgear, frame and the cushion all have great features that keep it stable on the face.
• Soft stretchy silicone cushions– The cushion on the Evora is very soft and stretchy. This allows it to use the pressure of the air from your CPAP to help seal. This gives a good seal without having to over-tighten the straps.
• Quick connecting frame– The headgear and frame pop lose from the cushion very easily. This makes maintenance very simple.

Evora Cons:

• Frame/Headgear has some hard plastic– For some users the plastic in the headgear and frame can be uncomfortable. Especially if you overtighten the Evora.
• Cushion can be tricky to remove– The cushion clips in very well. So, while it certainly doesn’t ever fall off, it is kinda tough to get on and off the frame when it is time to replace or clean it.
• Presses on upper lip for some– We have heard from a few users that the Evora may can cause discomfort on the upper lip. Usually, just a fitting issue, but for some it was a deal-breaker.

N30i Nasal Cradle Mask

The N30i by ResMed is a similar mask to the DreamWear Nasal mask. It features a top of the head tube connection which is great for a lot of side sleepers and heavy movers. The cushion was recently upgraded to provide a softer fit under the nose and a quieter exhalation. The cushion is available in Small, Medium, Small-Wide and Wide. The Frame on the N30i is available in Small and Standard, and the headgear is standard as well. Let’s look at the details of those features.

N30i Pros:

• Very quiet– The diffused exhalation on the front of the N30i is extremely quiet. It also produces very little draft on exhalation.
• Stretchy frame– The frame on the N30i allows for a lot more freedom of movement without pulling the cushion loose.
• Great tube quick-connect– There is a quick connect on the top of the frame where the CPAP tube connects. It detaches and reattaches very easily. Allowing you to keep the mask on while up at night and quick connect back to your tube when you get back to bed.
• Soft Cushion– The newest version of the N30i cushion does not have any hard plastic that may poke your face. It is very soft and flexible.

N30i Cons:

• Exhalation feels tough at higher pressures– We have had some feedback from users to indicate that the new diffuser can make exhalation a bit more difficult at higher pressures.
• Air tube frame can be weird– Much like the DreamWear, the N30i uses the frame to bring the pressure from top of the head to your nose. Some users have reported noticing a reduction in air-flow when they pinch off one side of the tubing while laying on their sides.
• Slips up on the head sometimes– The strap that holds the N30i stable goes around the back of the head. For people with long hair the headgear sometimes wants to slip up the head and allow the mask to come lose.

   

For many CPAP users the SoClean Automatic CPAP cleaner has been a great option for keeping up with their CPAP maintenance. Then when they receive a new CPAP, the hookups are not the same. For many CPAPs there are specific SoClean adapters that make the connection simple and effective. With that being said there isn’t an adapter for many of the new CPAP models. In those cases, there is an easy resolution.

Universal SoClean to CPAP Connection:

SoClean makes an adapter that has a standard 22mm connection. This allows you to plug it on virtually ANY CPAP on the market. This adapter fits on to the outlet of the CPAP and your tubing plugs on to the other side of the adapter. This universal SoClean adapter comes with a small injection tube that may need to be trimmed or removed for installation. Then you simply plug the long injection tube from the back of the SoClean on to the adapter nipple. This creates the full integration necessary to run your SoClean on any CPAP model. It is important to remember that this adapter does not work with heated tubing. You will need to use standard CPAP tubing on this setup. Check out the step by steps direction below:

1) Disconnect your CPAP tubing from the Air Outlet of the CPAP Machine.

2) Determine how long you want your interior injection tube and cut it. You may also remove it completely if needed.

3) Attach the adapter to the Air Outlet of the CPAP and reattach CPAP tubing to the other side of the adapter.

4) Connect the long injection tube from the back of the SoClean to the adapter nipple.

Click here for the Universal SoClean to CPAP Adapter

 

If you are a truck driver or anyone having to report CPAP usage to the DOT for your Medical Card Renewal, then this is a must read. We have a ton of experience with truck drivers, pilots, train engineers, boat pilots and more. From that experience we have learned a lot that we can now pass along to you.

What will you need to report from the CPAP?

For almost all truck drivers that have had to start CPAP Therapy you will need to provide compliance reporting to your DOT doctor every time you renew your medical card. It basically will be a report that your CPAP creates to show how much you are using the CPAP. There is no way to cheat this, so it is important to understand what compliance is. We have a GREAT blog on CPAP compliance and a video going over those details if you want more on that subject. The biggest concern in your CPAP selection will be how does your CPAP produce this report for you.

 

How do you get a Compliance Report from your CPAP?

This may be the single most important topic for a truck driver to consider on the selection of your CPAP. Over the years we have dealt with so many truck drivers needing compliance reports that we have seen every scenario. It can be very easy to get the compliance report from your new CPAP or it can be almost impossible, and all of that will depend on the model you chose. Let’s break those options down.

CPAP connection options:

Almost all CPAPs have some sort of recording option built into them. So, while almost all of them record your usage they do not report them in the same way. There are basically 4 ways to get the data from your CPAP. Once you understand the options below, I would recommend reading our top Auto CPAP picks blog here. This will explain which models have these features.

1)  Manual CPAP upload by cord to computer:

There are very few models left that will upload in this fashion. However, they do exist, and you should be sure that you understand if your CPAP is one of them. For these models you would have to take the entire CPAP to a Sleep doctor or CPAP supplier. Then you would have to hope that they have the kindness AND ability to provide you with a report from the device. Most of the CPAPs that operate in this way are Travel CPAPs. This type is not a good option for truck drivers.

2) Manual CPAP upload via SD card to computer program:

This type of upload is not a great option, but it isn’t impossible. If you have a CPAP that requires upload by SD card you will have a SD card in the CPAP that stores your CPAP usage data. That SD card can be uploaded at your doctor’s office, your CPAP providers office, or in some cases you can do it on your own at home via your home computer. Some models that allow you to do it on your own would be the iBreeze or Luna 2 CPAPs. They are good options but will require a computer with internet connection and SD card reader. If you are not good with computers, then this option is not a good one for you.

3) Bluetooth CPAP upload to cloud software:

Some CPAP options have built in Bluetooth connection that you can link to an app on your phone. You will need some basic understanding of operating your smartphone to use this option. Additionally, you will need to make sure that you maintain that connection on a regular basis. As long as you have a good CPAP supplier (like us here at CPAPmyway) you should not have any issue calling them up to get the report when you need it on this type of CPAP. It will upload your data to the cloud from your smartphone and your supplier should be able to see it and to provide you the reports you need. One option that is also great for staying on the road is the AirMini Travel CPAP. These types of CPAPs are good for users that do not have good or consistent cellular connections.

4) Cellular CPAP upload to cloud software:

This is by far the easiest option for obtaining a CPAP usage report. As long as you have purchased it from a good CPAP supplier. On these models the CPAP automatically connects itself to the cellular network and uploads the data for you. This means that you do not have to do anything other than call your provider for the report when you need it. Some nice CPAP models that include the Cell modems are the AirSense 11 CPAP, the Luna G3 CPAP, and the DreamStation 2 CPAP. These all will upload the data automatically and allow your CPAP supplier to pull your reports. If you order them from us here at CPAPmyway we will provide those reports as often as you need for free.

Minimal Contact Full Face CPAP masks are a great new category in the CPAP mask world. They give you the abilities of a traditional full face CPAP mask with much less on your face. They accomplish this by sealing at the bottom of the nose versus over the bridge of the nose. This gives you a clear line of sight even while the mask is on. You can wear glasses to read or watch TV even while wearing your CPAP mask.

Check out our Updated Minimal Contact Full Face Review! Click Here

How well do Minimal Contact Full Face CPAP masks work?

The Amara View was the first modern style mask in the minimal contact category. When this one was launched, I was ultra-skeptical. I had never seen a mask seal in this way and could not see it happening effectively. I was surprised to find that not only did it seal, but it sealed well. In fact, the minimal contact style seals better than the traditional style in a lot of cases. This is because for many CPAP users the bridge of the nose area is a very difficult place to seal. The design allows for the mask to seal under and around the tip of the nose. Which completely eliminates the need to seal at the bridge of the nose what-so-ever.

Which Minimal Contact CPAP mask is best?

There are quite a few options on the market these days. All of the major manufacturers now have a minimal contact option. Philips Respironics offers the DreamWear Full and the Amara View. ResMed offers the AirFit F30 and the AirFit F30i. And now Fisher and Paykel offer the Evora Full Face. All of these masks have major pros and cons, so which one is best. Let’s take a deep dive on those 5 models.

Amara View from Respironics

The Amara View is the original minimal contact full face. It has been around for quite a while and has been a very popular and effective option for a ton of CPAP users. It seals under the nose and over the mouth. It features a tacky silicone seal that generally does a good job of sealing against the skin. The seal is available in Small, Medium and Large, and all sizes wil fit the same frame. It is even available as a fitpack offering all sizes in one bag. This tacker silicone can also be a bit abrasive if over-tightened. The magnetic headgear clips make taking the mask on and off very easy.

Amara View Pros:

• Tackier silicone– The silicone has a nice sticky factor to it. This allows the mask to seal well against the skin. You must keep the seal clean to keep this working well.
• Stretch tube– The Amara View connects to your CPAP tube with a small connector tube. It stretches and rotates extremely well. Giving the CPAP user ability to move in bed with much less tube drag.
• Great magnetic clips– The headgear clips are magnetic and hold the mask firmly in place. This allows you to connect the mask and disconnect with ease. This is important because of the way that this type of mask fits.

Amara View Cons:

• Side of nose leak– The Amara view generally works, or it does not. There is not much middle ground. The majority of time where the Amara View fails it is due to leaks up the side of the nose. You can try to size down on the cushion to compensate for this leak, but if that doesn’t work, move on.
• Can hurt the tip of the nose- The way that this mask seals puts a bit of pressure on the tip of the nose in some cases. This usually goes away after a few days, much like the pain from a new pair of glasses on nose or ears.
• Not great for short noses– If you have a small button-nose you may be a great model, but you will also have trouble with the Amara View. The way it seals makes sealing on small noses pretty difficult.
• Exhalation draft– The exhalation ports on this mask are very projected and can be felt by the bed partner. This is genuine firsthand experience sleeping next to my wife.

AirFit F30 by ResMed

The F30 was ResMed’s first minimal contact full face mask. They do have the Liberty hybrid mask that features nasal pillows, so they had some experience with an oral cushion design. As always ResMed makes a quality product and the F30 is no exception. It has a much more pronounced seal to the side of the nose. Referred to as “wings” in many cases. This attempts to create a better side of nose seal, however it does make for a larger seal. It comes in small and medium sizes. Both size cushions will fit the same frame so you can try different size cushions without buying an entirely new mask.

F30 Pros:

• Great side of nose seal– The wings on the sides of the seal help to reduce the potential for leak at the side of the nose. There are times where that can pinch the nose if sized too small.
• Quiet exhalation– The exhalation ports on the AirFit F30 make the exhalation very quiet and do not disturb the bed partner.
• Nice Magnet headgear clips– The F30 also has great and secure magnetic clips. This makes it easy to fit nightly.

F30 Cons:

• Can leak at tip on nose– While the side wings on the F30 help to reduce leaks at the side of the nose it does sacrifice some security at the tip of the nose. This can cause issues with leaks there.
• No Large size– The Small and Medium do fit “most” CPAP users. However, we have seen many cases where a Large would have been a great option for larger noses.
• Not very low profile– The connector elbow and cushions design make the F30 stick out from the face quite a bit. This can be tougher for side and belly sleepers, because of the way the mask hits against the pillow.

Evora by Fisher and Paykel

The Evora is the latest addition to this CPAP mask category. As with everything Fisher and Paykel do, the Evora was done over a long period of time and evaluation. This means it is well thought out and designed. It has a lot of the positives of other masks from their competitors with some great additional features. It comes in Extra Small, Small/Medium, and Large sizing. As with the previous models all size cushions fit the same frame, and the Evora can be purchased as a fitpack including all sizes.

Evora Pros:

• High end headgear– The headgear on the Evora is top notch. It has high-end Velcro and specially designed breathable headgear. This makes it secure, long lasting, and really comfortable.
• Low Profile– The connection on the front of the Evora comes from the bottom of the mask. This allows for a more “low-profile” front which is good for side-sleepers.
• Directed exhalation– The exhalation ports on the front are divided to both sides of the mask and diffused downward. This helps to reduce noise and exhalation draft for the bed partner.

Evora Cons:

• Not the best tube connection– The front tube does not rotate all that well. Not that it needs to swivel much, but if you move a lot in bed this can be a sticking point.
• No magnets for headgear– The magnets on the competitors make them easier to take on and off. I have heard that F&P avoids magnets because of potential interference with pacemakers in users. Even if that is the case the clips are harder to work than magnets in competitors.
• Cushion can be tough to remove– It takes a good bit of effort to get the cushion in and out when it is time to replace. Especially when it is brand new.

AirFit F30i by ResMed

The name may be similar to the F30 but the F30 and F30i are very different. For starters the F30i has an over-the-head tube connection as opposed to connecting on the front. It is available in Small, Medium, Wide and Small/Wide cushions. It has Small, Standard and Large frames. This gives it a broad fit percentage for CPAP users. The stretch design of the F30i frame allows for good movement for side and belly sleepers.

F30i Pros:

• Top of the head tube connections– The connection of the tube at the top of the head allows for a lot more freedom of movement.
• Diffused exhalation– The F3oi has a well diffused exhalation that keeps the mask very quiet and saves the bed partner from exhalation draft.
• Stretchy frame– The frame allows for a good bit of stretch towatds the top of the head. This gives you a little more give and reduces the chance of cushion shifting on the nose.

F30i Cons:

• Stretchy frame can pull hair– We have had a handful of customers reporting that the frame on the F30i can pull your hair a bit causing discomfort.
• Can shift under nose– Because the frame is flexible and stretchy there are times where the cushion under the nose can shift, causing leaks.
• Membrane in nasal seal can be a little weird– In the center of the nasal portion of the cushion there is a little bridge. This keeps the cushion more stable, but when it is a little off it makes exhalation a little strange.

 

DreamWear Full by Philips Respironics

The DreamWear has been a very popular mask, because it was the first to use the frame as the tubing to deliver the air down the sides of the face. Allowing the tube to connect at the top of the head with nothing in line-of-sight. This made the DreamWear extremely popular right off the bat. It is available in Small, Medium, Large and Wide, and has the fitpack option available. The frame of the DreamWear also allows you to connect the DreamWear Nasal, and DreamWear Nasal Pillow version of the mask. Making it a very versatile mask option.

DreamWear Full Pros:

• Versatility- The DreamWear Full frame can also attach to the DreamWear Nasal Cushion of the DreamWear Silicone pillow cushion. This means that one frame can become 3 different masks. Great for CPAP users that switch between nasal and full frequently.
• Good sizing options– The sizes on the DreamWar full do a great job of covering the bases. Most of which is determined by the size of your nose.
• Dual exhalation ports– This is one of the only masks where you can sleep completely face down. If you cover the front exhalation the top exhalation port works perfectly.

DreamWear Full Cons:

• Silky silicone– The silicone on the DreamWear is very soft and flexible which is great for comfort, but really affects the sealing. As opposed to the Amara view that has the tackier silicone.
• Tubing quick connect can cause issues– The quick connect on the DreamWear is notorious for being left in the end of your CPAP tubing. It sits flush so it is hard to see. Customers throw it away with their tubing on accident frequently.
• Exhalation can be a little much– The exhalation on the DreamWear is not diffused as well as some of the others. Giving slightly more sound and exhalation draft.

If you have ever wondered about your Oxygen Levels or Pulse during your workout or while you sleep, then you need to check out the O2 Ring. The O2 Ring records these statistics and puts them in a really simple report. This allows you to see what is happening with your cardio system during a workout or even while you sleep.

How Does the O2 Ring work?

Using the O2 Ring is very simple. Start by charging your device. Once you have the device fully charged, just slip it on your finger. The O2 Ring will turn on automatically and begin showing you your stats on the screen. It will additionally record those stats. Once your recording session is complete, you can link it up to the ViHealth App and sync the data from the O2 ring to your SmartPhone via Bluetooth. Once the data has synced it will show you the statistics in a very simple graph and report in the app.

What does the O2 Ring report show?

The report is very simple and clear. It shows you a graph of Oxygen Levels, Pulse, and body movement on a clear timeline. This shows you how the statistics go up and down throughout the time that you wore the device. It also includes some really cool summary stats that I list below.

• Overall Recording time– The duration that you wore the device.
• <90% time- This is the amount of total time that your Blood Oxygen level was under 90%.
• Drops over 4%– This is the number of times that your oxygen level dropped by more than 4%.
• Drops per hour– Total number of times that your Oxygen Level dropped per hour.
• Average SPO2– This is your average Oxygen Level throughout the duration of the recording.
• Lowest SPO2– Lowest oxygen level throughout the recording.
• Average PR– Average heart rate during the recording.
• O2 Score- Overall score of how well you maintain your oxygen levels throughout the recording.

Good uses for the O2 Ring Oximeter

The O2 ring is not meant to diagnose or treat any medical condition. This means that it is just used to give you some good feedback on your Pulse and Oxygen Levels during a period of time. With that being said, there are some really cool things to use it for. One of my favorites is for workouts. I personally have used it a few times to see how well I maintain heart rate and oxygen levels during my workout. It provided some really great information. Others, like my dad, have used it to see how well they are doing when asleep. You can put the O2 Ring on before bed, then sync the data in the morning. In either use, you are able to see a really informative report on Heart Rate and Oxygen Levels.