The ResMed AirSense 11 is a popular continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine, featuring an integrated humidifier and advanced comfort settings. Maintaining this equipment requires consistent cleaning to prevent the buildup of pathogens, moisture, and mineral deposits. The SoClean device offers an automated sanitization method, utilizing activated oxygen (ozone) to destroy microorganisms within the CPAP system. This guide provides the specific instructions needed to properly pair the SoClean unit with the AirSense 11, creating a seamless, automated cleaning routine. Integrating these two devices begins with understanding the necessary physical components that bridge the connection between the CPAP machine and the sanitizer.
Required Components for Integration
Integrating the AirSense 11 with a SoClean unit requires a specific interface component due to the CPAP machine’s integrated design. Standard SoClean equipment includes the main reservoir, an injection hose, and a power cord, but these are insufficient for a direct connection. A specialized AirSense 11 adapter is mandatory, as this machine features a non-removable water chamber lid assembly. This adapter is designed to replace the original lid on the water chamber, creating the necessary port for activated oxygen transfer.
The adapter snaps directly onto the water reservoir base after the original lid is detached. This new component maintains a secure seal while providing a dedicated pathway for the SoClean’s injection hose. Without this specialized fitting, the activated oxygen gas would not be able to flow into the water chamber and tubing, compromising the effectiveness of the sanitization cycle. The adapter ensures the system remains a closed circuit, allowing the activated oxygen to circulate throughout the equipment’s interior surfaces.
Connecting the Devices
The physical connection process is centered around installing the AirSense 11 adapter into the humidifier chamber. First, the entire water chamber must be removed from the AirSense 11 machine by pressing the release button and sliding the chamber out. Next, the user must carefully detach the chamber’s original lid, which typically involves gently prying it off the reservoir base.
The dedicated SoClean adapter then snaps into place on the water chamber base, featuring an external port. Ensure the adapter forms a tight seal around the reservoir to prevent any leaks during operation. Once the adapter is secured onto the reservoir, the chamber assembly can be slid back into the AirSense 11 machine until it locks into position.
With the adapter installed, the black injection hose from the SoClean unit is connected directly to the new port on the adapter lid. This hose carries the activated oxygen into the CPAP system. The final step involves placing the mask component—including the cushion and headgear—into the SoClean’s main reservoir chamber. The mask should be positioned so that the air intake port faces the injection hose for optimal gas circulation.
Daily Operation of the Cleaning Cycle
Once the physical setup is complete, the daily operation of the cleaning cycle becomes largely automatic, focusing on the SoClean unit’s programmed features. The SoClean is designed to be set for a specific time, usually around a user’s wake-up time, to ensure the CPAP equipment is cleaned and ready for use that night. The standard cleaning duration is often factory-set at seven minutes, though this can be adjusted between five and ten minutes depending on user preference and model.
The cleaning process begins with the SoClean generating and injecting activated oxygen gas into the CPAP system through the adapter and hose. This gas circulates through the water chamber, the tubing, and the mask, destroying 99.9% of bacteria and viruses on exposed surfaces. Following the sanitization phase, the SoClean unit automatically initiates a purge or “fresh air” cycle to remove any residual activated oxygen from the equipment.
This passive degassing period ensures the equipment is safe and odorless for the next use. Depending on the model, the total cycle time, including the purge, can range from one to two hours. For the automatic cycle to function, the AirSense 11 machine must remain plugged into its power source, even when not in use.
Specific Warnings for the AirSense 11 User
Users of the AirSense 11 should note that ResMed, the manufacturer, has stated that damage caused by ozone may not be covered under their limited warranty. The activated oxygen gas can potentially degrade certain internal components and materials within the CPAP machine over time.
A primary component to consider is the ClimateLineAir heated hose, commonly used with the AirSense 11. If the heated hose is cleaned while connected to the machine, users should ensure they are using a compatible heated hose adapter to prevent damage. Many users opt to clean the hose separately, as its heated element and specialized plastic composition may react differently to the activated oxygen than standard tubing.
Even with the SoClean’s sanitizing action, manual maintenance of the water chamber is still necessary. The device kills microorganisms but does not remove physical residue like mineral scale or calcium deposits left by hard water. Users must continue to manually empty the water chamber daily, inspect it for mineral buildup, and clean it with mild soap and water as needed to maintain humidifier function.