RE: new electricity bill
I don't think a CPAP uses enough electricity to warrant any kind of rebate or discount on an electric bill. It is not something I would ever take advantage of because that's how I would see it: taking advantage of something. It would be a waste of funds that could be used elsewhere. Even when I was at my brokest, I would not have done it. But then, I'm odd that way.
However, I believe that letting the power company know as well as the local fire dept know that you depend on electricity for your health, that's a good thing.
PaulaO
Take a deep breath and count to zen.
01-01-2013, 05:29 AM
(This post was last modified: 01-01-2013, 05:32 AM by Moriarty.)
RE: new electricity bill
Hi
There are some subsidies offered in various Australian States to low income households for medical equipment usage.
Mostly they refer to 'Life Support' equipment so it is arguable as to whether xPAP equipment will qualify in all cases.
My father was on oxygen 24/7 and the Dept of Veterans Affairs gave him a significant payment toward his power bill to help run the oxygen concentrator. (DVA Gold Card required)
Ergon Energy (Regional QLD) also had him on a list to notify for power outages and for priority return of power in the case of blackout.
Google "australian government rebate for medical electricity usage" for a good list of available rebate schemes in Australia.
Cheers
David
RE: new electricity bill
The power company knowing you are on electricity dependent medical equipment isn't just to get the power to you quickly. It's also so they know who is where. But, really, it is the local police department or fire department that should know not just for power outage but for any kind of emergency.
As for CPAP being "life support", I don't think it is. Yes, it is extremely, extremely important that we use it. Yes, it is beneficial not just for good sleep, but for several body systems to properly function. But, if the power goes out, I won't immediately die. My death from not using it would be slow and probably painful but spread out over an amount of time, years instead of days or weeks. To me, life support means power is necessary for immediate survival.
PaulaO
Take a deep breath and count to zen.