I'm new to this business, having gotten this machine about a week ago.  Having what I suspect are the usual problems getting used to sleeping with a mask on and listening to myself breathe.  

However, after the first couple of nights, it seemed to me that by morning the air coming into the mask was very hot.  I turned the humidity off and it didn't help.  So a couple of mornings ago, I got out the old thermometer and actually measured it.  It was 73 F. in the bedroom and the air coming out was 93 F.!   Stifling, like being in a sauna.  I don't think I can live with that for an extended period.  And the competitive machine does not blow hard enough for my condition, according to the prescribing doctor.....

So I called the hospital that supplied the machine and described the problem.  He called Respironics and came back with this unwelcome news:  It is not unusual for the machine to put out "warm" air as much as 15 degrees above the ambient temperature of the room.   And suggested I get another fan and blow on it in an attempt to cool it down some.  Imagine, a $6000+ piece of equipment that you have to jerry-rig to make it acceptable.  Or if you want to be comfortable all night, somehow crank the room temperature down to 50 degrees and then it will be just right......

I contend that since this is running 20 degrees over the ambient temp, it is defective - and actually, could be dangerous to patients with heart problems.  Imagine being struck in the face with humid tropical-like air all night.   Respironics does not seem sympathetic at all.  I wonder if their engineers (??) ever put one of these on and tried to sleep with it for a few nights....???

Anyone else have problems like this?  The guy at the hospital said I was the first to complain of this specifically but he had had several other patients who complained of "sweating" and being too warm at night.  Could be the same problem but no one ever took the time to check the air temp.......???  Help.

Jerry Rutledge

Hi Jerry and welcome!

I am not an expert when it comes to machines and air temperature, but pardon my french that sounds like a load of hogwash you got from the person who supposedly "checked" with Respironics and this heated air is "normal".  

Maybe it IS normal for a BiPap Auto SV, but it just doesn't sound right to me.  So I would encourage you to call or write/email Respironics directly and ask about this.

I have a Respironics M-Series Auto CPAP w/C-Flex, I only *wish* that machine would put out warmer air.  But it most definitely does NOT.  My bedroom temps ARE cold and I had to purchase an Aussie Heated hose because the air was too cold and uncomfortable.  Granted that is not the same type of machine as yours, but I can think of no reason why yours would heat the air so much?

See if you can find a DME in your area who will test the machine for you (many "good" ones will do this at no charge, even if you're not their customer).  And please also contact Respironics directly.  I just don't know about this one, but I would encourage you to find out from separate, unconnected sources, including the manufacturer.

Blessings,
--pseudonym

You might also ensure the filter is clean, and the air intake(s) is (are) clear and clean.  If it is clogged or blocked it may have to work harder, which will cause the heat to build up.

It may also be the machine, which, as it sounds like, is new enough to probably be under warrenty.


_________________
painless

Sleep Apnea is a Killer! Get it Tested!
Get it Treated! Use the Treatment!

I sent an email off to Respironics yesterday.  Will report the results when it comes back.  If it does.

I did go out and buy a small wind tower type fan - you owe me $28.31, Respironics - and tried that last night, positioning it behind the BiPAP.   It did cool down the surface of the BiPAP to almost cool, but did not really seem to make much difference in the temperature of the air in the mask.    So much for that idea.

Jerry

Oh yes, forgot to mention.  The fan DID add one thing - a helluva lot more noise.  Drove my wife out of the bedroom almost like my snoring used to.....

I suspect a blocked air filter or is someone putting something such as a blanket over the CPAP  to reduce the noise?

the filter or air intake must not be blocked or covered

Ive never had a CPAP that gave out warm air


_________________
resmed S6 lightweight, respironics comfort gell mask using CPAP since 1995, no humidifier
during my many years of severe fatigue, no doctor ever asked me if I snored

Not the filter, I just washed it yesterday.

I'm told these BiPAP machines are far more sophisticated in their electronics than regular CPAPs and thus generate a good deal more internal heat.   I talked to my Family Practice guy here in Estes Park today and he agrees that 93 degree air is not a good idea.   And has me scheduled to see a pulmonary guy soon.  Will take the machine with me to that appointment......

Good news on your appointment, Jerry.  

I hope it is a faulty machine and you get another.  Please come back and let us know what they find out?  

Blessings,
--pseudonym

jerfilm wrote:

Imagine, a $6000+ piece of equipment that you have to jerry-rig to make it acceptable.

I AM trying to imagine a $6000 machine.  

Does it make you breakfast in the morning?