Distilled water is best. However, most insurances allow replacements humidifier water chambers at least once every 6 months. By the time the usually white impossible to remove mineral deposits builds on water chamber, replacement date may be reached. Just replace when due. If co-pay's or high deductibles issues and unwilling to replace then find a solution to make sure distilled water is only used. In the end, its best to focus on sleeping well and overall comfort than worry of this replaceable part or water preference. Also- great to see some much good input on these post. Dr. Thomas ---> nice site.
I'm sorry bud ("sleep tech")- I would have to strongly disagree with this comment of placing the oxygen feed at the machine instead of the mask. The oxygen becomes significantly diluted by the air, humidity and leaks if any prior to the air being inhaled. Patient's 02 saturate more effectively on lower 02 liter flows when placed closer to or inserted directly in mask.
The most effective and conservative spot to place the 02 feed is close to patients mask (02 ports in mask or T-adapter) or close to patient inhale areas. I've done all forms of CPAP, BIPAP, ASV, EERS, 02 treatment for 13-14 yrs as a registered sleep technician in many MA and NH sleep labs. My treatment titrations rarely fail. Keeping the 02 close to patient's airway also helps to keep the 02 prescribed flow at lowers levels, which helps to prevent and avoid complications with Oxygen, such as 02 retention. Please do not take offense to post, but this is something I've been trying to change in the sleep field past few yrs. If for any reason, if placing the 02 adapter at the machine please make sure to use a T-adapter AND a one-way valve that opens when the patient inspires to allow room air or supplemental oxygen to be inhaled. The odd thing is that many HME's/DME's and sleep labs dont use these one way valve adapters.
