Mask Leaks

[Sparticus]

Im not sure if people know this and Im sure that some do but the silicone cushon on the mask thats sites on you face needs replacing every 6 months or starts to leak after fitting well. I havent read this on a post yet, just about leakage which I usually start shouting at my screen "CHANGE THE CUSHON" I was told all about this by me tech at my clinic and the minute I start to leak will be the same time I replace mine and enjoy a leak free night.

[James @ Intus]

True, but the period does vary per person. Some people sweat alot or excrete a lot of toxins through their skin which affects the longevity of the seal. Luckily with most masks nowadays, you can just replace the seal though some clinics will insist on sending a whole new masks when you don't need it. If they do that, at least salvage all the spares from the original.

RemZzzs mask liners are also known to extend the life span of the seal/mask as they will soak up all that moisture before it reaches the cushion/seal.

But yes, keep an eye out for the state of this material from the 6 month mark onwards. A bit like shoes, some masks tend to fit better after a few nights use but degrade after a while.

And think about it, 6 months times 7 hours = 1260 hours use. If you walked on your shoes for 7 hours a day 6 months straight they'd be worn out too!

[acebass]

And think about it, 6 months times 7 hours = 1260 hours use. If you walked on your shoes for 7 hours a day 6 months straight they'd be worn out too!

I like the analogy James!

Mine generally last about 9 months with regular cleaning (mask Cushions, not shoes that is!)

[bomber898]

Silicone seal

True, but the period does vary per person. Some people sweat alot or excrete a lot of toxins through their skin which affects the longevity of the seal. Luckily with most masks nowadays, you can just replace the seal though some clinics will insist on sending a whole new masks when you don't need it. If they do that, at least salvage all the spares from the original.

RemZzzs mask liners are also known to extend the life span of the seal/mask as they will soak up all that moisture before it reaches the cushion/seal.

But yes, keep an eye out for the state of this material from the 6 month mark onwards. A bit like shoes, some masks tend to fit better after a few nights use but degrade after a while.

And think about it, 6 months times 7 hours = 1260 hours use. If you walked on your shoes for 7 hours a day 6 months straight they'd be worn out too!

This is good stuff to know. I have only been using CPAP since 21 September 2010, but I am already experiencing leaks especially around the bridge of my nose. I have a spare seal and will change it tonight. Many thanks for the info.

[ElleCee]

Good thought, maybe my quattro needs a new seal as I struggle more than than I did originally. I have had it for about 13 months now
Having said that I will have to wait until March before I can do anything about it. Luckily I have the sleapweaver to use in the meantime.

Lorraine

[Sparticus]

Surprised!

I thought that the 6 month rule was common knowledge! I guess I musnt take things for granted in the future. Same rule applys to the filters folks not sure how long they are designed to last but Im changing mine about 6 months but checking them regulary.

[symmit]

I thought that the 6 month rule was common knowledge! I guess I musnt take things for granted in the future. Same rule applys to the filters folks not sure how long they are designed to last but Im changing mine about 6 months but checking them regulary.

I've just changed my filters after two months and the white one was nearly black...

[Sparticus]

I've just changed my filters after two months and the white one was nearly black...

What! I thought they were black lol

[Barely Awake]

Attempting to keep an unavailable mask in service I am rotating and swapping bits from older masks and found that some mask parts that were compatible when new don't actually mate without leaking when after use they are transferred to another mask. There is in other words wear on the jointing parts so it is not just the interface material that wears out.

[countyDownMum]

I use a Remzzzs mask liner each night with my nasal mask. I find it comfy to wear and it is a bonus that it will extend the life of the mask. I find everything expensive and hope I would not have to replace the mask frequently.

[Sparticus]

I use a Remzzzs mask liner each night with my nasal mask. I find it comfy to wear and it is a bonus that it will extend the life of the mask. I find everything expensive and hope I would not have to replace the mask frequently.

I guess Im lucky if I need a new one I just phone the hospital for machine or new mask anything

[jackyk]

same here, dont realise how convenient that is