Generic CPAP Heat Moisture Exchanger (HME)
The Z1/Z2 generic Heat Moisture Exchanger (HME) offers heated humidification without the use of a bulky humidifier. Unlike many other HMEs which work exclusively with the machine they are designed for, the Breas Z1/Z2 generic HME is compatible with all CPAP and BiPAP machines. It can be attached to any tubing and mask with standard 22mm connections. This HME is not washable and is effective at providing heated humidification for up to 7 days.
How does the CPAP HME work?
The HME traps heat and moisture from the user's exhaled breath, releasing them during the next inhalation to provide heat and humidity. Because of this design, the closer the Z1/Z2 HME is to the user, the more effective it is. To use this HME, simply attach it to the mask end of your CPAP tube prior to connecting the tubing to your mask.
How does it work?
I recently purchased the Breas Z2 from Respshop to have for work as I am required to travel quite often. It has been a great addition as I am able to fit it in a carry on rather than needing to bring a suitcase like prior. I The only issue I found was I was more dry than normal which made longer trips a bit more uncomfortable since it does not take distilled water like my phone machine. I decided to phone in to the staff at Respshop to look for a solution, which is exactly what I got! They informed me of the heat moisture exchanger to place in line right before my mask that was able to provide me with some humidity and does not take up much space in my carry-on. My work trips are never more than a few days and each one lasts seven days which has been plenty for me. The prices at Respshop are always so reasonable. I likely would have avoided this issue from the beginning had I just called in since they knew exactly what I needed which is what I will be doing from now on. Thank you again, you know I will be back for more!
I was in a conundrum. I really wanted to go on a trip but I am a CPAP user and I just couldn't imagine travelling with the CPAP and lugging distilled water too. I decided to do some research and I found RespShop's website. I found the ResMed AirMini Auto Travel CPAP. I was shocked to learn there was such a small cpap on the market. It is similar in size to a can of soda! I soon realised the convenience of size meant there was not a humidifier. I used humidification each night. Resmed had instead a heat moisture exchanger called Humidx. A waterless humidification was just brilliant. Unfortunately, to use the Humidx product I needed to use a Resmed mask. I believed my trip was no go because I loved my Fisher and Paykel Vitera mask and I did not want a new mask. I called into Respshop to confirm and they explained with a tube connector and a six foot tube I could use my own Vitera mask! Not only that but there was another HME I could use with this set up so I had humidification after all. What a great product!
I have only used this for about 5 night so far and the one thing I noticed (but it may not be related to the CPAP) was that my mouth would be very dry if I were to wake up during the night. I often use my big home CPAP without humidity during the summer so I do not think it was the fault of this H&M Exchanger. Long story short, after using the rental for a week I bought one of these units to use for travel in the future. Fantastic device!
no need to refill water anymore! yay!!! no need to refill water anymore! yay!!!
Finally! no more dry mouth and throat in the morning!