Why Your CPAP Isn’t Recording Data – A Complete Guide

1. Wi-Fi Connectivity

CPAP machines work on cellular data and/or Wi-Fi. Check the following things to make sure your CPAP is Wi-Fi connected properly:

• Your area has stable 3G or 4G connectivity.
• Airplane mode is off (refer to your user manual to understand how to turn off the airplane mode on your specific model)
• Verify that you have good signal strength (even a solid brick or concrete wall in your home can be enough to block a signal)

2. Calendar and clock not set

Many CPAP machines report from 12 O’clock to 12 O’clock, so if you look at your results after you wake, you may only see 1-2 hrs of data. You need to read it before noon on the same day that you want your stats or data from.

This can become a problem if the clock and/or calendar is not set to the correct day and time. Make sure these are manually set, then try to read your data.

Please note that the a power outage can also cause it to reset and you may need to manually set the day and time again.

3. Incorrect Data On The CPAP App

To properly record or back up data from your CPAP machine, you need to enter the correct details of your device on the app.

Check if you have registered your device on your app’s account, and also make sure you have entered the correct serial and device number.

Your sleep data will not be available until the first night after you have updated your serial number and/or device number in the CPAP app.

Note that your region might not support all CPAP devices, so make sure that you buy one that is compatible with the app. Remember to always purchase the machine from a local, authorized dealer too.

4. CPAP Machine Not On

CPAP machines have sensors that are sensitive to breath sound. If the machine is not detecting breath properly it activate, there will then be no airflow, and the device won’t record any data.

Make sure the device is properly plugged into a compatible power source.

If the device has been plugged in for several days, try resetting it – this sometimes solves the problem. Here’s how to do it:

• Locate the power button and turn off the machine.
• Carefully unplug it from the power source.
• Reconnect after 40 seconds.

If the problem persists, contact customer support to see if there is damage to the internal wiring of the device that might have occurred due to voltage spikes, overheating, or impact.

5. Not enough upload time

CPAP machines upload your data to your phone or the internet via an app. Sometimes this process can take a great deal of time, with some older models not commencing the upload until a period of non-use.

Try leaving your CPAP on for an hour or two after you wake. This is often enough to solve the problem as it can take almost an hour to back up the data to the cloud.

6. Disrupted Connection

The CPAP machine will not record any data until you begin using the device.

Due to certain technical errors, the CPAP machine can stop transmitting pressurized airflow, even when it is on and plugged into the socket. In many patients with low-grade or mild sleep apnea, this can go unnoticed.

There are several problems that can cause this issue:

Defective Motor

As we know, the machine motor pulls air into the device. If the motor breaks or is overloaded due to electrical problems, impact, or excessive dust buildup, the airflow can be heavily impacted..

If you suspect this issue call a technician to fix the motor. Although you may find it easier (and cheaper) to just replace the CPAP machine instead.

Cracks In The Tube

The tube transmits the pressurized oxygen from the machine to the mask. The broken tube will allow the air to escape, reducing the transmitted pressure. In extreme cases, the low pressure will disrupt breathing enough to make it undetectable by the sensor.

The only solution is to replace the broken tube. A tube typically lasts for around three months. When connecting a new tube, confirm it is compatible with your CPAP machine.

Obstruction In The Tube

Saturated or ineffective filters allow airborne dust and debris to escape into the CPAP machine. As a result, they can also build up in the oxygen tube, obstructing the airflow. In case of complete constriction, the machine will not record any data.

Since blockages often cause cracks and leaks within the tube, it is better to replace the tube instead of just clearing the collected dust. Regularly cleaning and replacing the air filter frequently is also crucial to prevent the problem.

Loose Mask

If the mask is too loose for your face, it will allow maximum air to escape outside, which will impact the airflow.

Consult with your physician to see which mask suits you best, and remember to seal it properly before use.