What is the whining noise coming from my cpap?

Q: What is the whining noise coming from my cpap?

A: The whining noise coming from your cpap is most likely your motor beginning to fail.

Key factors affecting your cpap motor

·       Machine usage: As the motor is the primary functional component of your cpap, it accumulates continuous wear and tear with regular usage. Although the motor is designed for such usage, it will eventually fail and need to be replaced.

·       Cleaning and maintenance: It is important to change your intake filters on a regular basis and be sue that your machine is free from exposure to water or excessive dirt and debris.

·       Tubing and mask integrity: You should replace your tubing and mask on a regular basis and periodically check for leaks to be sure they are not the cause of the problem.

The best way to get the most mileage our of your cpap motor is to be sure and maintain a regular cleaning and maintenance schedule; replace your mask, tubing, and water tank regularly; and avoid exposing your machine to water, dust, or debris.

Most manufacturers recommend wiping down your mask cushion and emptying your water tank daily. You should also clean all your equipment weekly using mild cleaning solutions. Mask components, tubing and water tanks should be replaced according to the manufacturer’s schedule, which ranges from 3 to 6 months, depending on the manufacturer. Fine filters should usually be replaced weekly, or more often if visibly soiled or damaged. Reusable filters are on a longer replacement schedule, but should be checked and cleaning regularly. If large amounts of dust, animal hair, or other debris get into your machine, it can damage your motor or accelerate the decline in function.

If you have completed all the recommended maintenance, cleaning, and replacement procedures, and your machine is still making a whining noise, you may need to have the motor replaced. There are a number of certified repair centers, such as Medical Repair Systems and Accurate Biomedical, that can evaluate and repair a variety of different cpap units. Costs vary, but you should be able to have the motor replaced for $250.00 to $275.00.

Some insurance companies may cover cpap repairs and you should consult with them before sending your unit in for repair. However, as they will only provide a replacement machine every five years, you often must pay to have your unit repaired, or purchase a replacement on your own. Repairs are almost always less expensive than replacement cost. In addition, repairs do not require a new sleep study, but replacement usually does.

REFERENCES

Resmed – how to clean your cpap equipment  https://www.resmed.com/en-us/sleep-health/resources/cleaning-cpap-equipment/

React Health – mask and headgear cleaning https://www.reacthealth.com/uploads/userfiles/files/documents/Cleaning-Your-PAP-Mask-Interface-and-Headgear-RH-v_1.pdf

Resmed – Replacement Guide https://www.resmed.com/en-us/sleep-health/blog/when-to-replace-cpap-supplies/

React Health – Replacement guide https://www.reacthealth.com/uploads/userfiles/files/documents/MI_MK_0287-%20Patient%20Guide%20to%20Replacing%20CPAP%20Supplies-%20REV%20C.pdf