Question for CPAP users

[Tazmaniancowboy]

Just found out that my mother has been using RODI water in her cpap machine for over a year. I do not know anything about these machines. I asked her what she is supposed to fill the machine with and she tells me distilled water. So my parents automatically started using RODI water thinking this is pure clean water. Right? LOL I know that you shouldn't drink much RODI water so I'm wondering if this is no good for her machine?

Do you guys on these CPAP machines know anything about this. I told mom to just go buy distilled water and use it, but you know how parents are, The don't want to understand ;D

Thanks for your help
Taz

 

[Phyl]

The water in the CPAP machine is being used the same way it would be in a humidifier. It isn't enough water to consider it a "glass of water" and just keeps the air moist so that you aren't breathing dry air all night (especially when we're running our heaters). I think you want the water pure so that it isn't leaving mineral deposits behind.

I would say that pure RO/DI water would be fine for the application (though John, who also doesn't listen, just uses tap).

 

[JohnS_323]

John doesn't use any water anymore! When I did, I used tap water. As Phyl said, it's more because of mineral deposits. RODI would be fine.

 

[Bruce K]

I use RODI as the issue is mineral deposits left when the water evaporates. I would think tap water would off gas chlorine at least. John, I don't know how you don't use water. I even use water on humid nights.

 

[JohnS_323]

John, I don't know how you don't use water. I even use water on humid nights.

I have no idea why it's OK but it is. I ran out one night and never refilled it and it hasn't been a problem.

 

[RichT]

I use well water right out of the tap. Been using the same canister for a couple years now with no issue. During the winter, if I don't use the water, I have sneezing fits the next day. Like someone burnt the inside of my nose.

 

[Tazmaniancowboy]

Whew, Thanks guys. I'm glad to see mom is safe! I'll have to tell her to go back to good ol pure rodi. I knew this was the right place to ask.

Taz