COVID-19 Response

In response to COVID-19, we have placed limits on certain areas of our operations. Please view our latest response here.

Machine Questions

What do I use to fill my humidifier?

Use only distilled water. Tap or spring water will risk corroding the bottom of your chamber.

What do I need to clean every day?

Empty out water that is left in humidifier chamber and let it air dry every day. Wipe mask with a damp cloth or use CPAP cleaning wipes to prolong the softness and clean off any residual skin oils that might deteriorate the mask.

What do I need to clean weekly?

Mask, headgear, tubing, and humidifier chamber should be washed in a solution of warm to hot water with anti-bacterial detergent.

What should I do if my machine’s pressure is too low?

There may be a leak or a problem with your humidifier, so ensure that the chamber is in place properly. Visit our help page to see videos and other resources on machine set-up.

If your chamber is in place properly, leaks could also be caused by an old mask. Reach out to your doctor or a respiratory therapist to order a new mask or to get a consultation for a pressure change if necessary.

What should I do if my machine’s pressure is too high?

The ramp feature may need to be used in order to fix this or your doctor may have to prescribe a pressure change. Reach out to your doctor or a respiratory therapist if you have further questions.

What should I do if there is water in my tubing or mask?

Residual water in your tubing or mask can be caused by a few different factors. To being troubleshooting, check to see if your tubing is wrapped, if your water level needs to be lowered, or if your heat setting is too high and needs to be lowered.

What should I do if my machine is shutting off in the middle of the night?

Follow the steps below to diagnose potential problems with your machine or mask fitting:

  1. Check to make sure the unit is plugged in securely at both ends.
  2. Check to see if the unit is displaying an error message. If it is indicating a high level of leakage for example, your mask may have a poor fit.
  3. There may be a leak in the humidifier.
  4. The mask may be pulling away from your face during the night if your CPAP machine is located too far away.

Usage Questions

I'm having a hard time keeping my mask on throughout the night. Any suggestions?

We suggest that you continue to put the mask on every night, and your body will eventually get used to the new sensation of wearing a CPAP mask.

What should I do with my machine when getting up to use the bathroom during the night?

Turn the machine off, remove your mask, and then disconnect the tubing from the mask.

What should I do if I have a cold or am sick?

Do not use the machine. Wait until you start feeling better to resume use. Consult your physician with any questions.

Is it normal to have a hard time adjusting to CPAP usage?

It takes time for your body to adapt to the mask and the machine. Use the machine nightly and hopefully your body will adapt quicker. If you wake up and have to take the mask off, go ahead but use the machine nightly if possible. It may be in small increments, but your body will get used to it. If after a fair trial period you just cannot get used to the machine, it is between the patient and the doctor; a BiPAP may be suggested.

Can I travel with the machine?

Yes. If flying, manufacturers suggest that you treat it as a ‘carry on’ and store it on the overhead compartment. Make sure you empty any water out of your humidifier.

What should I do if I'm having trouble exhaling?

If you have a pressure of 10 or greater, contact your therapist to discuss the differences between CPAP and BiPAP.

What should I do if I'm experiencing a dry nose or mouth?

If you are currently using a nasal mask, we would recommend getting a full-face mask to allow for mouth breathing. Check with your doctor to see if using a simple saline mist before use could be helpful. Adjust the water and heater levels.

How do I set up my mask and put it on?

For questions with setting up your mask, please call our office at 781-551-3335.