Regular maintenance of DME equipment through proper filter and supply replacement is especially important for patients who rely on medical equipment to stay healthy at home. We take pride at Apple HMS in doing our best to keep our customers from needing to rely on the hospital when equipment problems arise. Our 24/7 on-call Respiratory Therapists can troubleshoot failures over the phone, set priority shipments for replacement parts, and will even make an overnight delivery in emergencies.
But prevention before problems arise is best, and one of the most important aspects of maintenance for medical equipment is changing filters and supplies as recommended. Here are some common upkeep schedules for our most popular respiratory equipment.
Trilogy EVO Ventilator
Evo Foam Inlet Filter: This filter is washable and reusable. According to Respironics, it provides effective mechanical filtration by trapping large particles and debris. Cleaning and reusing this filter on a weekly basis can help maintain its effectiveness and prolong its life. Dusting it off once a week can usually be good enough, but you can also use warm water and mild soap to get it more clean. Make sure the filter is fully air-dried before putting it back into the machine.
Evo Particulate Filter: This filter should be changed monthly and should not be washed. You will receive a new filter in your monthly order from Apple HMS, and you can click here to see a video on how to replace it. Respironics states that this filter protects patients from impurities in the air and protects the ventilator from corrosion.
LTV Ventilator Filters
The black fan filter and white inlet filter can be washed with warm water and mild detergent weekly. It is very important to ensure the filters are fully dry before reinserting. The black fan filter will require a small screwdriver to detach the grill from its housing before you are able to access the filter itself.
Portable and Stationary Suction Pump Filters
These filters should be changed every six months or as needed when they become dirty. This can help prevent the buildup of dirt and debris, which can compromise effectiveness.
Cough Assist
Bacteria filters and tubing for the CoughAssist should be changed every two weeks. This will help prevent the buildup of bacteria and other contaminants that can cause infection.
Oxygen Supplies
Regularly changing out these supplies can help prevent the buildup of contaminants and bacteria.
Oxygen tubing should be changed out every two weeks.
Nasal cannulas should be changed out once a week.
Oxygen humidifier bottles should be changed out every two weeks.
Keeping up with recommended maintenance of medical equipment is crucial for ensuring its optimal performance and longevity. While Apple HMS takes care of major equipment maintenance or failures, these simple routines can go a long way in keeping equipment running smoothly in your home.
Apple HMS provides equipment rentals and monthly shipments of filters and supplies for these items and many more. Please give us a call at 972-699-9511 or 866-33-APPLE if you ever have any questions about replacement filters or parts, supply restocks, or anything else!