Considering FP HC150 and have questions

Good morning.
We've hit cold weather here and that's when my M-series Pro heated humidifier starts to use significant water (I use it on "5" - we're very dry here -- 10% hujidity in the winter)
There was a bit of water left in the tank this morning, but I did have my first ever nosebleed this morning.

So, I'm thinking of something with a larger tank.
The HC150 has been recommended, but there were some less-than-flattering reviews.

Suggestions?
Would I use something instead of the Respironics humidifier, or use them in series (I suppose this could mess up the machine sensors).

Shari

Morning Mom

I bought mine after having so much trouble with my "M" tank leaking. I really like it. It comes with a tray to tie it down and I use a strip of velcro to attach the CPAP to the tray. It does a great job and does nave more water capicity and is a lot easier to fill. The only complaint I have heard is that the ambient tracking doesn't work like some think it should. I don;t know what some expect but if you turn it on it makes humidity. If you turn it up it makes more humidity. Although it is hard for me to imagine 10% humidity. I have been using mine as a passover humidifier for the last couple of months but I got nose bleed about 2 weeks ago and have had to run it at 1 or 2 now.

Jerry

The integrated humidifiers just don't have the capacity of the Fisher & Paykel stand lone heated humidifier. I ran into problem w/a raw nasal cavity due to insufficient humidity and COLD passover humidity too last year during some really cold days w/the furnace running almost constantly. A fellow xPAPper loaned me his F&P HC 100, an older model to the HC 150, and it saved my bacon 'cause I was ready to ditch this CPAP bit.

You can usually find a good used HC 150 on e-bay if you have reservations about spending the full price of a new HC 150.

I ran the HC 100 thru the integrated humidifier AND separately and it did the job either way. I LOVE it!! I didn't "need" to run it thru the integrated humidifier, I just got lazy and didn't feel like taking it off my CPAP. It was easier to just run the HC 100 thru the integrated.

I don't use the HC 100 all the time or in place of my integrated humidifier simply because while the HC 100 doesn't take up a lot of space I like to keep a clock, a box of tissues, a bottle of water and a small flashlight on my nightstand along w/my CPAP and humidifer and the HC 100 did make things more crowded.

bump

I use one and am very happy with it. I also have the heated aussie hose.

I like warm air. Used to keep my nose under the bedclothes, but can't do that with Cpap, so this is a good alternative.

There are a few adjustments in routine to make. It is more difficult to fill than my integrated Resmed humidifier was. It is hard to turn off in the morning in my sleepy state, as it needs turning off seperately from the cpap of course, and the button is small and doesn't always "take". I have to check the light is off to make sure it is off. Not a big deal, but an extra chore in the morning!

recommend it.

Your profile shows you are using a CPAP. Interference with machine sensors would only be an issue for APAP/BiPAP if at all. I have used HC150 w/ 3 different APAPs and have had no problems at all.

HC150 will work fine for you. You can hook it up in series (between Respironics integrated HH and mask). Again, in CPAP mode, the Rx pressure will be maintained unless there is a significant leak along the circuit between machine and mask interface.

If money is an issue you can get yourself a passover reservoir ( http://www.cpapauction.com/browse/cpap- ... alone.html ) and place it on a heating pad from Bed,Bath, & Beyond/ or Target (used typically for muscle injuries/sorness) and also hook it up in series between Resmed HH and mask.

10% humidity is pretty darn low. If the temps get down low too, you will have rainout (condensation) problems too. In that case you will also need to insulate your hose or use the infamous Aussie hose.

Mom

Just wondered where you read the "less than flattering reviews". Everyone I know that has used the F&P 150 has said it is the best out there. I just looked at the reviews on our hosts site and they are all very positive.

Jerry