ResMed AirFit F30i vs. F30?

I'm trying to decide between the F30i vs. F30 and would appreciate any feedback from folks that have experience with both.

I'm currently using the Amara View and I'm specifically looking for feedback related to noise and air blasting a sleeping partner with the Resmeds.

I had read that the hollow tubing of the F30i needs to be rinsed out regularly vs just wiping down the cushion and I was wondering how much a pain that is, if any.

I have somewhat limited mobility in arms and limited dexterity in hands. If I have to fiddle with connecting and releasing hose above head with F30i, it might be a nuisance factor, not necessarily a deal-breaker but wanted to ask about it.

Thanks for any feedback

CTcentrals wrote: ↑

Fri May 06, 2022 5:52 pm

I had read that the hollow tubing of the F30i needs to be rinsed out regularly vs just wiping down the cushion and I was wondering how much a pain that is, if any.

I use the P30i which uses almost identical mask tubing, and would have the same cleaning needs. I almost never wash the mask tubes.

F30:
My pressure needs are not high. I used the F30 at 8.8

With the F30 I could cover my head and face with the bed covers, and the air hitting them did make a noise, and didn't bounce back at me.
Can't tell you how it would be with higher pressures - but I can tell you that with another mask, the Hybrid, I could neither duck under the covers, nor place my arms anywhere near the airstream because of the noise and discomfort.

I have read the F30i may be noisier for the user because you have the hose on your cheekbone. The Resmed diffuser for either mask is identical.

Unless you really want / need the hose coming from above, why bother with the F30i?

CTcentrals wrote: ↑

Fri May 06, 2022 5:52 pm

I had read that the hollow tubing of the F30i needs to be rinsed out regularly vs just wiping down the cushion and I was wondering how much a pain that is, if any.

I've been using the same F30i for about 18 months without ever cleaning the inside of the tubing. It doesn't appear to be dirty. Only filtered air goes through it. I wipe the parts of the mask that touch the body every morning with an alcohol swab. That's it.

ozij wrote: ↑

Fri May 06, 2022 10:15 pm

Unless you really want / need the hose coming from above, why bother with the F30i?

When the hose is attached to the headgear, it doesn't pull on the mask thus reducing the chance for mask leaks. Hose management is easier.

CTcentrals wrote: ↑

Fri May 06, 2022 5:52 pm

If I have to fiddle with connecting and releasing hose above head with F30i

It's a quick-disconnect fitting that is easy to use.

CTcentrals wrote: ↑

Fri May 06, 2022 5:52 pm

noise and air blasting a sleeping partner

It's never been a problem for me, but then Gramps and I are both CPAPers.

Avoid the mask that is difficult to handle now.
It is not likely to get easier later on.

Thanks for all who shared their thoughts and experiences, all very helpful and appreciated. I think I'm going to give the F30i a go and see how it works. It sounds like the diffusers are the same, the tubing isn't high maintenance, top connection is quick release, can be good for hose management, and doesn't pull the mask aside which can cause more leaks.

Thanks again, All!