CPAP product reviews and other helpful tips for CPAP users!

The holiday shopping season usually brings the promise of big discounts and once-in-a-lifetime deals.  But unless you're looking for a new TV or a trunk-load of phone chargers, you're probably not scoring the deal of a lifetime.  So, how do you know you're getting the best deal on CPAP stuff?  Grab a turkey leg and sit back because we're about to give you the inside scoop on how to find the best CPAP deals online (for real)!

BEWARE OF...

Refurbished.  CPAPmachines.ca will never sell a refurbished product.  That just means "used" and we can't guarantee it'll be in good shape or hygienically safe to use.   The price might be great, but refurbished products aren't always guaranteed and are usually too good to be true.

Currency.   Some online retailers may look like they're based in the same country, but are foreign and use a multi-currency exchanger based on your I.P. address to show local prices. Sometimes, the program that detects where you're from doesn't adjust for your local currency correctly, and you end up paying more than you bargained for.

Return Policies.  Every company has their own.  Make sure you read it - actually read it and know exactly what you're in for. Know which items are returnable, which items are final sale, if there are restocking fees and how long you have should you need to send it back.

Shipping and Customs.  Make sure your order qualifies for free shipping or have reasonable shipping rates.  If your shipping charges are not clearly displayed, be wary.  That great deal you found might not be so hot once you factor in the shipping or duty.  

ALWAYS LOOK FOR...

The Fine Print.  Read it carefully.  Are there limits to how many you can buy?  Are you in a part of the world that they won't ship to?  When does the promotion code expire?  Are there any exclusions to the sale?   Don't skip over the fine print.  The devil is always in the details!

Verified Customer Reviews.  It's easy for a shady seller to write 15 amazing fake reviews.  Always make sure the feedback comes from verified customers.  On most reputable e-commerce sites you can tell which reviews are legit by the "verified buyer" checkmark, or an authenticated username. 

ONE FINAL TIP: 

Always pay with a credit card or PayPal.  If you get swindled by a fake CPAP seller, you'll always have the protection of your credit card company or PayPal.  Don't buy from a retailer that accepts checks, debits, bank or email transfers - those payment methods don't protect YOU. 

No matter how good the deal sounds it's probably not worth the trouble.

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.

There is a stigma when people think of full face CPAP masks. Many think they're ugly, bulky, intrusive and the thought of wearing one to bed sounds impossible. However, full face masks are the Holy Grail for many CPAP users; they are designed with specific features and benefits that have made them a go-to mask for millions in the CPAP community. 

How Does A Full Face Mask Differ From Other CPAP Masks?

So, what makes a full face CPAP mask different than the others? A full-face mask covers the nose and the mouth -  like an oxygen mask you might see a fighter pilot wear, but nicer - with straps that are worn over the head with headgear holding it in place. It sounds uncomfortable, but they've made them pretty form-fitting and soft now.

By highlighting the pros of full face masks and giving it a well-deserved spotlight, we hope to break the stigma of how the general public feels about this often demonized and incredibly well-designed CPAP mask.

Advantages Of A Full Face Mask For CPAP Therapy

Below is a list of the top advantages that we feel CPAP users will receive by choosing a full face CPAP mask over other styles. 

1) It's stable & secure: Full face masks tend to be a bit larger, heavier and have more material (straps and thicker headgear) than, say, a nasal pillow style mask. These CPAP  masks cover more of the face which results in better pressure when compared to their nasal or nasal pillow style counterparts. It is an excellent choice for restless or back sleepers - the straps tighten well and offer support to keep their masks in place in different positions at night. 

2) Mouth breathers or nasal obstructions: Full face-style masks are an excellent choice for natural mouth breathers or those who suffer from nasal obstruction or congestion. This style of a mask allows you to get the Sleep Apnea therapy you require either breathing through your mouth or nose. This is also a great style of mask for those who suffer from cold or flu symptoms. No need to lose good sleep, when your nose is stuffed and you need it the most. 

3) Tolerable with higher CPAP pressures: Full face CPAP masks cover more of the face, therefore allowing high pressures to be more tolerable by CPAP users.  The full face mask offers more surface area for the air to move around before entering the airways making the pressure less direct and more comfortable. These masks are beneficial for restless sleepers and popular with users who like to sleep on their backs. 

4) Facial hair:  Got a beard? This style of CPAP mask is popular with users who have facial hair, specifically those who sport a full mustache or a thicker beard. Facial hair can prevent a good seal because the cushion cannot grip the face properly, resulting in leaks and a frustrated user. The full-face style fits tightly around the nasal bridge and the chin providing a better air seal. 

While there are many notable benefits of a full face-style mask, it is not for everyone. All full face masks are not made equal and manufacturers use various materials that may work for one person and not the next. Remember to do your research, ask questions and try on a sample if possible.  Spend at least as much time trying on CPAP masks as you would buying a new pair of jeans! 

Our Best Selling Full Face Masks at CPAPMachines.ca

Here are our top 3, best selling full face CPAP masks. Click on each one to see the design features of each popular full-face style and feel free to comment on your own experience and which full face mask works for you. 

AirFit F20 CPAP Mask

The ResMed AirFit F20 CPAP Mask is a full-face style mask that is considered as being the brand’s most adaptive mask styles. Offering a soft and flexible headgear frame and a reliable seal with InfinitySeal technology, this mask is ideal no matter what your preferred sleeping position is. Many CPAP users have praised this mask for its comfort, reliability and durability. 

Fisher & Paykel Simplus Full Face Mask

The Simplus full face CPAP mask by Fisher & Paykel offers a new convenient design that is aimed at helping you find the perfect fit. With an interchangeable cushion and a built-in air diffuser, you can rest assured knowing that you will get a restful night’s sleep when using this CPAP mask. 

ResMed Mirage Quattro Face Mask

Another best selling full-face mask is the ResMed Mirage Quattro CPAP mask. Offering streamlined design and whisper-quiet performance, this mask is easy to use and offers great comfort levels to CPAP users. With over 20 different ways to adjust forehead support, this has long been a favourite with our loyal customers. 

While they may be given a bad reputation by some, these CPAP masks are anything but effective when it comes to treating Sleep Apnea. If you are interested in purchasing a full face mask, feel free to get in touch with our CPAP equipment experts who will be happy to guide you to the mask that will suit you best.