Last night, about midnight, we had a HORRIBLE storm blow in.  The thunder and lightning were so bad that they were right on top of each other.  At one point in time I wondered if I should take off my mask and turn off the machine.  Not because I was worried about that machine, I have it plugged into a surge strip, but I was concerned that it could cause the lightning to strike me.  

If you have a horrible storm in your area, do you leave your mask on and stay plugged in?   I did, but not sure it was a smart move on my part.

I wouldn't worry about being harmed by using your CPAP during a storm.  You have no metal between you and your CPAP machine (just a plastic hose), so I wouldn't think it possible for shock.  If storms are frequent in your area, I would advise that you have your CPAP machine plugged into a good surge protector at the very least if not a UPS (Uninterruptable Power Source).

UPS power sources are typically expensive, especially for greater battery capacities.

If your CPAP can take 12v DC input, a less costly method is to use a portable car starter battery ("jump start battery"). Depending on your machine's power requirements, and battery, you can get one or two night's usage.

The portable battery units are typically self-contained, with sealed battery to avoid acid spills. Mine has an anemic AC recharger; I use a battery charger from my boat to speed up the recharge process.

merlin wrote:

I wouldn't worry about being harmed by using your CPAP during a storm.  You have no metal between you and your CPAP machine (just a plastic hose), so I wouldn't think it possible for shock.  If storms are frequent in your area, I would advise that you have your CPAP machine plugged into a good surge protector at the very least if not a UPS (Uninterruptable Power Source).

While I think it would be impossible for ligthening  to get to your CPAP machine, it is incorrect to think that if it did the hose would insulate you from it.  Static electricity can arc through thin air.

I was more worried about power loss and surges.  After waking up a few times gasping for air I put my machine on an enexpensive UPS.  the UPS beeps when the power goes out and wakes me up so I can take my mask off.  The added benifet is my alarm is pluged into it to so I'm not late for work when the power goes out.


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Dan

I keep my 420E connected to a 115 amp hr battery at all times. The battery is connected to the charger and stays charged. If the power fails, Who cares. It will run for about 2 to 3 weeks if needed .  The whole setup costs abput $125 At Wal Mart .

 

Chumley