A continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine assists individuals with sleep apnea by delivering pressurized air, which helps maintain open airways during sleep. Many CPAP devices include a heated humidifier to add moisture to this airflow, preventing dryness and irritation in the nasal passages and throat. The type of water used in this humidifier is a significant factor in both the machine’s performance and the user’s health. Selecting the appropriate water source can prevent mineral accumulation, deter microbial growth, and ensure the longevity of the equipment.
The Ideal Choice for Your CPAP
Distilled water is the recommended choice for CPAP humidifiers. This water undergoes a process where it is boiled into steam and then condensed back into liquid, removing minerals, bacteria, and impurities. The absence of these contaminants is important for the optimal functioning and maintenance of the CPAP machine.
Using distilled water prevents the formation of mineral deposits, often called limescale, within the humidifier chamber and tubing. Mineral buildup from other water sources can clog components, reduce efficiency, and damage the machine. The purity of distilled water also minimizes the risk of bacterial or mold growth within the water reservoir, which could be aerosolized and inhaled. This ensures only clean water vapor is delivered for inhalation, contributing to better respiratory health.
Waters to Avoid and Why
Several water types are unsuitable for CPAP humidifiers due to their impurity content. Tap water contains minerals like calcium and magnesium, plus chlorine. When heated, these minerals form limescale that damages the machine. Tap water can also harbor microorganisms such as Pseudomonas and Legionella, which can be aerosolized and inhaled, posing health risks.
Bottled water and spring water are not recommended because they contain dissolved minerals. Spring water, naturally filtered, can have increased mineral content. These minerals cause the same damaging buildup as tap water. Filtered water, like that from a Brita pitcher, removes some impurities but not dissolved minerals, making it inadequate for preventing limescale.
Deionized water, while stripped of salts and minerals, may still contain non-ionic impurities or microorganisms. This means it is not as pure as distilled water and may not fully prevent microbial growth. Inhaling impurities from any non-distilled water source can lead to respiratory irritation or infections.
Managing Your CPAP Water Supply
Acquiring distilled water is straightforward, as it is widely available in supermarkets, pharmacies, and online. Users should check labels to ensure they are purchasing true distilled water, as some bottled waters may contain added minerals. Keeping a supply on hand ensures consistent adherence to recommended practices.
Change the water in the CPAP humidifier reservoir daily. This prevents water stagnation and the growth of bacteria or mold, even with distilled water. Daily water changes maintain hygiene and contribute to therapy effectiveness.
Regular cleaning of the humidifier chamber is necessary to prevent accumulation and maintain a sanitary environment. A daily rinse is advised, followed by a thorough cleaning with mild soap and warm water weekly. Allowing the chamber to air dry completely after cleaning helps inhibit microbial growth.
If distilled water is temporarily unavailable, certain alternatives can be used as a last resort for a very short period. Sterile water for inhalation, found at pharmacies, is a suitable temporary option due to its purity.
As a brief emergency measure, boiled and cooled tap water can be used for a single night; however, boiling only kills microorganisms and does not remove minerals. Purified bottled water or filtered tap water can also serve as short-term substitutes, though they may contain trace minerals that necessitate more frequent cleaning. Switch back to distilled water as soon as it becomes available to protect the CPAP machine and user health.