Sleep Centre

How to set-up the humidifier on

your CPAP machine

Guidance for patients, relatives and carers

Introduction

Step one

Find the compartment to insert your humidifier on the right-hand side of your CPAP machine (our

photos are of an Airsense 10).

Step two

Press the plastic button at the top right side, wiggle and pull the side cover until it is completely

Step three

Open the humidifier by pulling the plastic flap on the right hand-side, shown in the photo below,

upwards.

Step four

Fill the humidifier with distilled water, or tap water that has been boiled in the kettle and left

Step five

Insert the humidifier in the side compartment, making sure this is dry on the outside before

insertion. The machine will automatically detect the humidifier and default the humidity setting to

number four on the scale of humidity.

Step six

If you are still experiencing dryness you may need to increase the humidity level. You can do this

on your Home Menu by using round silver dial to navigate between the following options:

If needing a setting higher than 7, there is a risk of water droplets developing in the pipe; this can

be improved by placing the CPAP machine at a lower level than the bed - ie: floor/stool).

Step seven

For a good maintenance of your equipment, make sure to rinse your humidifier daily when you

wake-up, and use new water every night before you go to bed.

On a weekly basis, clean it with vinegar or lemon juice. Natural acid substances are very good

against bacteria and limescale.

We aim to provide the best possible service and staff will be happy to answer any of the

questions you may have. If you have any suggestions or comments about your visit, please

either speak to a member of staff or contact the patient advice and liaison service (PALS) on

020 3312 7777 (10.00 – 16.00, Monday to Friday). You can also email PALS at

imperial.pals@nhs.net The PALS team will listen to your concerns, suggestions or queries and

is often able to help solve problems on your behalf.

Alternatively, you may wish to complain by contacting our complaints department:

Complaints department, fourth floor, Salton House, St Mary’s Hospital, Praed Street

London W2 1NY

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