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+--- Thread: Average Total Leaks Seems High (/Thread-Average-Total-Leaks-Seems-High)
Average Total Leaks Seems High - thebrez1 - 09-01-2013
I have a Philips Respironics, System One RemStar Auto with A-Flex and have been using it for several weeks. I also use an Ultra mirage full-face mask. Sleepy Head software is showing an Average Total Leak level of 42=43 every night. Is this due to the mask vent? My AHI is running .85 to 1.1 so I don't think I really have a problem. I just was looking for some kind of explanation. I have been using CPAP for more than 15 years and have tried almost every machine and mask combination out there. I think I would know if I was having a problem! I just tried the A9 and DeVilbiss autos over the last month and settled on the RemStar. My old RemStar has 29,000 hours on it and I am a RemStar fan! Any info on the Total Leaks story would be appreciated and if I can help with any questions about comparisons of the machines I would be happy to give my two cents worth. Love this site!
RE: Average Total Leaks Seems High - trish6hundred - 09-01-2013
Hi thebrez1,
WELCOME! to the forum.!
Hang in there for answers to your question.
RE: Average Total Leaks Seems High - jgjones1972 - 09-02-2013
(09-01-2013, 09:40 PM)thebrez1 Wrote: I have a Philips Respironics, System One RemStar Auto with A-Flex and have been using it for several weeks. I also use an Ultra mirage full-face mask. Sleepy Head software is showing an Average Total Leak level of 42=43 every night. Is this due to the mask vent?
Hi thebrez1,
Yes, it's due to the mask vent. The total leak is a combination of the intentional leak (venting) and unintentional leak. According to the chart provided by ResMed for the intentional leak rate for the Ultra Mirage you are doing extremely well leak-wise. Here is the manual for the Ultra Mirage with the intentional leak rate chart (intentional leak increases with treatment pressure increase).
http://www.resmed.com/us/assets/documents/product/ultra_mirage_full_face/user_guide/608337_ultra-mirage-full-face-mask_user-guide_amer_eng.pdf
RE: Average Total Leaks Seems High - thebrez1 - 09-02-2013
Thank you for the info. I have been using a CPAP for so long I almost know intuitively when I am having a problem. I run 12.5 to 20 on auto, but seldom hit 18. 16 is about normal so the leak rate is right on the money. I do not use ramp, C-Flex, A-Flex or any of the other bells and whistles. I just strap it on an go to sleep! I literally cannot sleep without the CPAP. I travel extensively so I need a durable machine; it is the first thing I unpack. I even set up a 250 watt solar panel and two 125 amp batteries so I always have a plan B. Like I said, I CAN NOT sleep without it. 27 hours on a plane from China awake because the airline did not put in my power station!
For all the "newbies" out there, have patience and USE YOUR MACHINE! Don't take it off, don't use it "sometimes" and don't make excuses! USE IT! You WILL get used to it and find what works for you. "My CPAP is my friend. There are many like it, but this one is mine"
