CPAP product reviews and other helpful tips for CPAP users!

When it comes to sleep therapy, choosing the right CPAP machine can feel like a journey into the unknown. But fear not! The ResMed AirSense 10 and AirSense 11 are here to light your way to a more restful night. While both machines offer effective pressure delivery, the AirSense 11 brings a host of exciting enhancements that make it shine even brighter. Let’s dive into the key differences between these two models, the list of cons as well as user feedback to help you find the perfect fit for your needs!

User Interface: Say goodbye to clunky buttons! The AirSense 11 features a sleek and intuitive touchscreen display that makes navigation a breeze. With just a swipe or tap, you can access settings and track your therapy progress effortlessly. It’s all about user-friendly design that puts you in control of your sleep journey.

Smart Features: In our tech-savvy world, connectivity is key! The AirSense 11 steps up with enhanced smart features, including myAir connectivity. Imagine being able to monitor your therapy progress right from your smartphone! This game-changing feature empowers you to take charge of your therapy like never before. Unfortunately, the AirSense 10 doesn’t offer this level of connectivity, so the choice is clear!

Whisper-Quiet Comfort: Let’s face it: no one wants a noisy machine interrupting their beauty sleep. The AirSense 11 operates more quietly than its predecessor, creating a serene sleep environment for both you and your partner. With reduced noise levels, you can drift off into dreamland without any disturbances—now that’s what we call restful!

Therapy Modes: While both models offer AutoSet therapy, the AirSense 11 features updated algorithms for more responsive pressure adjustments. This means your therapy becomes even more personalized, adapting to your needs throughout the night. You deserve a machine that truly understands you, and the AirSense 11 aims to deliver just that!

Design & Size: Planning a getaway? The AirSense 11 has you covered with its compact and stylish design. Whether you’re off on a weekend adventure or a long trip, this machine is designed for portability without compromising performance. Plus, you can purchase an end cap separately, allowing you to travel without the humidifier if you prefer a more streamlined setup. It’s a travel companion that ensures you never have to sacrifice quality sleep, no matter where you are.

Humidification: Both the AirSense 10 and AirSense 11 come equipped with optional heated humidifiers, which are essential for a cozy therapy experience. However, the AirSense 11 may offer improved settings for humidity control, allowing you to customize your comfort even further. Breathe easy and enjoy the soothing effects of optimal humidity while you sleep!

Cons to Consider

While the AirSense 11 has many advantages, it’s also important to weigh the potential downsides:

Price: The AirSense 11 costs a pretty penny and is considerably more expensive than the AirSense 10. If you’re on a budget, the cost may be a deciding factor to forgo the 11.

Compatibility Concerns: One notable con of the AirSense 11 is that, while you can continue using the same mask if from your previous CPAP machine, other consumable parts are not compatible. This means that if you’re upgrading from a 10, you’ll need to purchase new replacement parts specifically designed for the AirSense 11. While this ensures optimal performance with the new model, it can be inconvenient for users who were hoping to save on costs by using their existing accessories.

Learning Curve: The new touchscreen interface may take some time to get used to, especially for those accustomed to the traditional button layout of the AirSense 10.

Dependence on Connectivity: While the myAir feature is beneficial, it does rely on a stable internet connection. If you’re in an area with spotty Wi-Fi or mobile service, this may limit some functionality.

What Users Are Saying About the AirSense 11

Customer feedback can provide valuable insights into real-world experiences with the AirSense 11. The feedback provided here are indicative of common sentiments expressed by a range of users in reviews, forums, or product feedback platforms. 

Enhanced Comfort: Feedback from users who appreciate the quieter operation of the AirSense 11, highlighting improved sleep quality for both themselves and their partners.

Intuitive Design: Comments from individuals who find the touchscreen interface easy to navigate, reflecting the experiences of users transitioning from older models with traditional buttons.

Mobile Monitoring: Testimonials from tech-savvy users who enjoy the myAir app, illustrating the convenience of tracking therapy progress and making adjustments from their phones.

Minor Learning Curve: Insights from users who experienced an initial adjustment period to the new touchscreen features but ultimately found it beneficial.

Conclusion: Elevate Your Sleep Experience

In summary, the ResMed AirSense 11 stands out with its array of enhancements over the AirSense 10, including an intuitive touchscreen interface, cutting-edge smart features, and whisper-quiet operation. These innovations are designed to create a seamless and enjoyable sleep therapy experience.

However, it’s crucial to consider both the pros and cons before making a decision. The AirSense 11 has garnered positive feedback from users who appreciate its comfort, ease of use, and innovative features, making it a compelling choice for those seeking an upgrade in their CPAP therapy. If you’re ready to elevate your CPAP therapy game, the AirSense 11 is a dazzling choice that reflects a commitment to comfort, convenience, and user satisfaction.

Explore the AirSense 11 and its accessories here and take the first step toward a more restful night!

Learn more on AirSense 11 Autoset here.

A popular topic we often get asked about is water. Do I have to use distilled water with my CPAP device? What is distilled water?  Can I use tap water? What is the difference between tap water and distilled water? Do I have to use distilled water when I'm travelling? 

It is important to learn the difference between types of water available and what you should use with your CPAP machine. When it comes to using a CPAP humidifier, you need to be using the right cleaning techniques and tools to prolong the life of your CPAP equipment. That includes water type too.

CPAP manufacturer Resmed (who makes AirSense 10 and S9s) recommends filling your water tub with distilled water to maximize the tub's lifespan. Respironics (who makes DreamStation and Remstars) recommends using distilled water in your humidifier to avoid mineral deposit buildup.  

We recommend CPAP users to follow the manufacturer's user manual for the optimal performance of their products.

Types Of Water To Use With Your CPAP Device

First of all, it is good to know what the different types of water that you can use are. There are three main types that we recommend using with your CPAP equipment. These include: 

• Distilled water
• Springwater
• Tap water

Distilled Water

Distilled water is water that has been boiled into vapour in one container and collected back into liquid form in a separate container. This distillation process filters impurities behind when the water evaporates. This removes microbes and minerals like calcium and magnesium. 

As we mentioned above, many CPAP manufacturers such as Resmed and Respironics recommend using distilled water for your CPAP machine for the very reason that it decreases the risks of your CPAP equipment becoming mineralized.

Springwater

Springwater is water filtered naturally (by rocks) and contains minerals. As the name suggests, spring water is derived from an underground formation where water flows naturally to the earth’s surface. Similar to tap water, spring water isn’t necessarily filtered so it will contain microbes and minerals. 

We recommend that you only use spring water in your CPAP machine if your manufacturer has recommended that you do. 

Tap Water

Tap water is water containing solutes like chlorine and fluoride and also contains minerals. Unlike distilled water, tap water is not boiled in order to filter out any impurities. Generally, it is better compared to that of spring water. 

Depending on where you live can also impact the tap water that you use. For example, if you live in a city then you may notice that tap water has higher levels of fluoride than rural areas.

The difference between these three types of water would be the presence of minerals, microbes, organisms or chemicals. In most cases, distilled water is often the preferred option for your CPAP device due to the decreased presence of minerals and chemicals.

Tap Water & Your CPAP Device

As mentioned previously, if your CPAP manual says to use distilled water, stick with distilled water. Water in other forms can mineralize, harden, discolour and scale your water chamber with time.  

That being said, we have seen CPAP users use tap water - it decreases their product's lifespan and increases the frequency they need to replace their tubs. Make note of your water chamber's life span and replace as recommended by the user's guide. 

What Water To Use With Your CPAP Machine When Travelling 

A key consideration when travelling is the quality of water. If you don't trust the water supply, don't use the water in your CPAP machine. Find access to a drug store or a pharmacy where you can purchase distilled water. 

Using distilled water in these instances will minimize your exposure to any risks to both your health and your CPAP equipment. Some CPAP users temporarily use bottled water until they find distilled water.

Finally, if accessing safe water is an issue when on the road, consider forgoing the usage of your humidifier until you get back home.