Select Sleep Apnoea Service
CPAP common questions
Disclaimer – Not all frequently asked questions may apply to your device. If you cannot see your question below, please call your Healthcare Professional or Baywater Healthcare (number located on the sticker on your device) for assistance.
How do I order new consumables such as masks?
Use our online contact form, or call us on 0800 121 4524 to request new consumables.
How do I clean my machine?
Wipe the outside of your machine with a clean antibacterial wipe, allowing for drying time in accordance with the instructions on the antibacterial wipe’s packaging.
How often does my machine need servicing?
Your machine will be serviced in accordance with manufacturer’s recommendations; Baywater Healthcare will automatically contact you when your next service is due.
How often should I change the filter on the back of my machine?
Filters need to be changed in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions; this timescale can vary. Please refer to your user guide or call Baywater Healthcare on the telephone number located on your machine if you require further assistance.
Can I travel with my CPAP device?
Please check with your Healthcare Professional and travel company before travelling. Some devices are fitted with a universal power supply; please check this information with Baywater Healthcare. If your device has a universal power supply, this means that you can travel anywhere in the world and plug into the local electrical supply, provided you use the correct mains lead or an adaptor. The voltage must be between 100- and 240-volts AC and 50 and 60Hz. Some countries have very unreliable electricity supplies. You should consider this before travelling. Your Healthcare Professional may be able to provide you with a battery for your device.
Contact the airline at least two weeks in advance to ask for permission to use your CPAP equipment during the flight. If you receive permission in writing, remember to take the letter or email with you when you fly.
If you are travelling by aeroplane ahead of your flight, request a seat near a power socket. Ask which type of power cord or adaptor you require if you need to plug in your device on the plane.
Please make sure that you have turned your machine into airplane mode if using it on the flight.
If you are traveling by coach, train, bus, or cruise ship, contact the travel company ahead of your travel to ensure they have adequate power supply for you during your journey.
Take a copy of useful information with you on your trip.
A letter from your Healthcare Professional certifying that you need positive airway therapy.
A note of your treatment pressure, mask type and mask size, plus contact details for your Healthcare Professional, Baywater Healthcare and care provider if applicable.
Health insurance details, including your policy number and the provider’s contact details.
Your device manufacturer’s travel compliance letter, so you’ll be able to carry your device through airport security if you are travelling by aeroplane. Please call Baywater Healthcare so we can assist you with locating your compliance letter.
Please note, security scanners will not harm your device in any way, and the device should be scanned as security guidance stipulates.
You are responsible for the care of your CPAP device and mask. You will be charged for any lost or damaged devices so ensure these are covered by your travel insurance.
Should I check my CPAP device into the hold?
No, you must take your CPAP onto a plane as cabin baggage, even if you will not be using the CPAP during the flight.
How often should I change the water in my humidifier?
Distilled water is preferred; however, clean, cooled, boiled water/filtered water can be used. Please change this daily and only fill to maximum fill line. Caution: Please do not add anything to the water; for example aromatherapy oils.
How often do I clean my equipment?
Baywater Healthcare’s Technician or your Healthcare Professional will offer guidance; however, the below instructions will provide indication.
Daily cleaning
Every day, start the morning by wiping the mask down. This should be done by using a clean, damp cloth and warm, soapy water (washing up liquid). Please ensure you rinse the soap/bubbles off well afterwards with clean water.
Weekly or bi-Weekly cleaning
Once every one or two weeks, it’s time for the CPAP equipment to get a deeper clean.
- Start by separating all the equipment and attachments.
- Wash your mask in warm, soapy water, rinsing it with clean water and air-drying it before further use.
- Wash the straps that are attached to your mask with warm, soapy water, rinse with clean water, and dry completely before using again.
- Clean out your non-disposable filters each week.
- Cleaning the tubing
- Wash the tubing in warm, soapy water, allowing it to soak for a short time if necessary. Rinse with clean water and hang the tubing over a door/shower rail, so the water can drain out as it dries. Avoid hanging it in direct sunlight because that can cause discoloration and cracking over time. Caution: Do not use direct heat to dry the tubing; for example, a hair dryer.
Cleaning the humidifier chamber
If your machine has a humidifier, this should also be cleaned as a minimum each week. Empty out any water and wash the humidifier chamber in warm, soapy water. After it’s cleaned out, rinse it with clean water and leave it to air dry.
Please note, to prevent limescale build up, please use distilled water or filtered water in your humidifier.
To remove any limescale already present, wash the humidifier in a solution of one part white vinegar and ten parts water. Use a small brush such as an old toothbrush to scrub the limescale away, and then wash the humidifier in warm soapy water. Rinse the humidifier with clean water to remove any bubbles and leave to dry.
How often should I change my tubing?
Please follow manufacturer’s recommendations and is usually between 6 – 12 months. If unsure, please contact Baywater Healthcare.
