Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy effectively treats sleep apnea by delivering pressurized air to maintain open airways. Many CPAP machines integrate humidifiers, which add moisture to this airflow to enhance user comfort and therapy effectiveness. Humidification helps prevent common side effects such as dry mouth, nasal irritation, and throat discomfort, which can arise from the constant stream of air. The quality of water used in these humidifiers is a significant factor affecting both the device’s longevity and the user’s health.
Why Distilled Water is Recommended
Distilled water is the universally recommended choice for CPAP machine humidifiers. It is produced by boiling water into steam and then condensing it back into liquid, effectively removing minerals, impurities, and microorganisms. Using distilled water prevents the accumulation of mineral deposits, often seen as white crust or scale, within the humidifier chamber. This mineral buildup can damage the machine’s components, reduce its efficiency, and shorten its lifespan. The absence of impurities also minimizes the risk of bacterial or mold growth in the humidifier reservoir for a cleaner and safer therapy.
Is Purified Water Suitable for CPAP?
Purified water undergoes various filtration methods, such as reverse osmosis or deionization, to remove contaminants. While this process makes it safe for drinking, it does not always remove all trace minerals or microorganisms to the same extent as distillation. Consequently, purified water may still lead to some mineral buildup in the CPAP humidifier over time, though generally less than tap water. For long-term use, purified water is not ideal as trace minerals can accumulate and affect machine performance.
In situations where distilled water is unavailable, purified bottled water may serve as a temporary substitute in an emergency. This should only be for short periods, such as a day or two, and requires more diligent cleaning of the humidifier. Continued use increases the likelihood of mineral deposits, impacting the humidifier’s heating element and effectiveness. While a better option than tap water in a pinch, it does not replace the benefits of distilled water for consistent CPAP use.
Risks of Using Other Water Types
Using tap water or other bottled water types, such as spring or filtered water, in a CPAP humidifier carries several risks. Tap water contains natural minerals like calcium and magnesium, which form hard scale deposits when heated. This mineral buildup can clog the equipment, reduce the humidifier’s efficiency, and ultimately damage the CPAP machine, decreasing performance and lifespan. Manufacturers often advise against tap water due to this mineral accumulation.
Beyond mineral deposits, tap water can harbor various microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and protozoa. When heated and aerosolized, these pathogens can be inhaled directly into the lungs, potentially causing respiratory infections. The respiratory tract lacks robust defenses against inhaled germs, making this a significant health concern. Tap water may also contain chemical irritants such as chlorine, which can become airborne when heated and irritate the airways. Spring water and other filtered bottled waters typically contain minerals and are not sterile, posing similar risks of mineral buildup and microbial contamination.