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Storing the apnea machine is essential, whether due to a change in one’s treatment, transitioning from a bi-level machine to a hybrid, or preparing for a long time. Storage keeps your apnea machine in the proper condition and makes it available for use when you need it next. The purpose of this article is to outline the measures that you, as a user, should take in order to preserve apnea for long-term use and to prevent the machine from getting damaged.
Why Proper Storage is important?
An apnea machine is costly primarily, but it is a crucial aid for patients in sleep apnea treatment. Proper storage can be stored in a good manner because it can be damaged through dusting, water, or other harsh environments, which are likely to affect the functionality of the machines. Also, it is essential to store your apnea machine properly as this will also reduce the chances of bacteria and mold or any other unwanted particles developing on the machine once you start using it again. The following recommendations will help you to make sure that your apnea machine is in good working order even if you haven’t used it for months.
How to Store Your Apnea Machine Correctly
- Thoroughly Clean the Machine
Preparation of the apnea machine for storage also requires that it has to be cleaned first. Some of the parts that are usually separated include the mask, the hose, the water chamber, and other accessories. To clean each part, use warm water and mild soap, and be sure to rinse carefully to eliminate the Soap residue. They should be allowed to dry for some time, and this should be done until there is no water left on the components. To avoid the growth of molds, mildew, and bacteria when the machine and its parts are stored, it is advisable to clean and dry all these.
- Disconnect and Inspect All Components
As a next action, remove all the connected wires off the main unit of the apnea machine. Examine all components of the wheel to check for damages may it be in forms of cracks or fading. If you have observed any defect, then it is advisable to change the part or sections that you think needs replacement before storing the equipment. Like this, you will be sure that your apnea machine is ready for use when you are in need of it again.
- Store in a Cool, Dry Place
Another aspect which is very relevant when storing your apnea machine is the place that you select. The machine has to be kept in a dry environment at room temperature free from direct sunlight, heat or exposure to humidity. Heat can cause melting in the electronic components, cold can freeze the components, while moisture could cause rusting or mold development. It is also wise to avoid placing the machine in areas such as the attic, basement, or garage because of variations in temperature and humidity.
- Keep the Stored Object in Its Original Storage Case
If possible, the apnea machine should be stored in the storage case that it came with when bought. Besides, the case should safeguard the machine from elements which include dust, dirt and presumably any form of physical harm. If you lost the original case, then use a clean soft bag or a box that will be able to protect the product well. Make sure that the storage container selected for use is spacious enough to accommodate the stall and its components without exerting pressure to any of the parts.
- Take out the Filter and dispose or keep it separately
The filter is one of the most essential parts of the apnea machine because it assists with the cleaning of the air which is brought in by the machine. Finally, before storing the machine away, one should permanently remove the filter and put it in another clean dry place. If the filter is a disposable type, then it can also be discarded and replaced with a new one when one feels like using the machine again. If the item is reusable, you should make sure it is washed well and dried up before it is put away.
- Label and Keep Track of Parts
If your respiratory equipment is a complex one with different parts, for example, a mask, a hose, and a power supply, then it would be useful for one to label the different parts of the equipment to minimize losses or else develop a checklist of the equipment parts. This shall make it cumbersome to put the machine again when you are ready to start using it again.
- Periodic Checks on the Machine
If there is a situation where you have to store your apnea machine for a long time then it is best to take a look at it from time to time. Preserve the environment where the storage takes place, and visually check the machine and its parts for the presence of damages or wearing. Therefore, this periodic check will act as an early warning system to enable you detect potential issues before they compound.
Conclusion
Storing your apnea machine is very important to make sure that you keep it in good shape and within its ideal condition when the need arises. To avoid this, it is advisable to clean the machine, inspect it thoroughly, store it in a cool, dry place, and regularly examine the machine to see whether it requires a professional checkup or not. this will help to elongate the life span of the apnea machine and thus your investment. The expose above is very important for those who would like to store their devices for a number of months or even years as the said practices will see your apt device remain in good condition.