More than 10,000 hours does not decide the next step

Several CPAP machines came through our technical teamrecently with more than 10,000 run hours.
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One had exceeded 18,000 hours.
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Run hours tell us that a machine has supported many nightsof therapy. But the number alone does not tell us what should happen next.
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We also look at:

• how the motor sounds;
• whether airflow appears stable;
• the condition of the humidifier tub;
• the filter and air path;
• fault or repair history;
• availability of replacement parts;
• and what the patient has been experiencing.
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An older machine may still be working reliably.

A lower-hour machine may already have faults or damage.
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The useful question is therefore not simply:

How old is the machine?

Is the machine still providing reliable support, and whatis the risk if it stops?
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Possible next steps may include:

• continuing and monitoring;
• servicing and inspection;
• preparing a backup;
• or planning replacement.
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High run hours begin the conversation. They do not make thedecision for us.
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The next practical step

Check the run hours if they are available, but alsonote any changes in noise, reliability, airflow or error messages.