Frequently Asked Questions

CPAP FAQs

1 Can I still receive CPAP therapy off the grid?

Using a Transcend unit completely off the grid is not only possible, it is also quite simple! You use your miniCPAP when away from a wall power source by using the Transcend Solar Panel Charger to charge your Transcend battery. If AC power is not available, but you do have access to a DC power source, consider ordering our 12-volt mobile power adaptor, which can power the CPAP and recharge the batteries from a standard 12-volt power plug. A cigarette lighter plug in a vehicle is a prime example. Purchasing the P8 Battery, is the easiest way to ensure you’ll be able to use your miniCPAP off the grid.

2Can I travel with Transcend? Can I use it on a commercial flight?

Yes! You can carry your Transcend miniCPAP device with you on your flight. And, as a medical device, it will not count as one of your carry-on items. Make sure that you always carry your device with you as CPAP machines can be damaged by normal luggage handling procedures. Your doctor can provide an official letter stating that you need to carry your device with you, if necessary. Transcend is FAA-approved for inflight use with battery. Be sure to call the airline in advance to clarify procedures and in-flight policies.

3How long will the battery last in my Transcend miniCPAP?

Transcend offers our P8 Battery which delivers up to two nights at 14 cmH2O. These averages may vary depending on leak rate and altitude.

4Do you offer CPAP masks?

Our CPAPs do not come with a mask as they are designed to be used with virtually any CPAP mask on the market today. Use your miniCPAP with a nasal cushion, nasal pillow, or full face design. For the ultimate in freedom, you can choose the mask that works best for you - which is quite common with contemporary CPAP offerings.

Humidification

1How does the Transcend 365 miniCPAP humidifier work?

The Transcend 365 miniCPAP is the first and only CPAP system to use patented Capillary Force Vaporizer™ (CFV) technology. CFV uses wicking action to pull water from your reservoir and deliver warm, moist air to you only when you inhale. Rather than using a heated plate to warm the water in the reservoir, as most heated humidifiers do, the 365 miniCPAP uses vaporization to deliver humidification in the same fashion a nebulizer would deliver vaporized air to you. This special method for humidification delivery uses about half the water of a standard heated humidifier and much less energy. That’s how the Transcend 365 miniCPAP humidifier can be so small and portable, deliver full humidification almost immediately, and can even operate on battery power!

2Can I pack my Transcend 365 miniCPAP humidifier with water in the reservoir?

No. Doing so risks water entering the CPAP device. Always completely empty your humidifier reservoir before transporting it.

3Can I use tap water with the Transcend 365 miniCPAP humidifier?

No. The 365 miniCPAP humidifier uses a special heating element that will become corroded from the hardness chemicals in tap water. Please use distilled water. If distilled or purified water is not available, use the optional Transcend 365 miniCPAP Water Filter, which will allow you to use tap water to fill your device. Distilled water is always the best choice.

4What should I do if I forgot my portable Transcend Water Filter and can’t access distilled water?

The hardness chemicals in tap water can quickly corrode your humidifier. The Transcend 365 miniCPAP measures the hardness of the water in the humidifier reservoir. If tap water is present, the humidifier will not operate. Therefore, if you cannot access distilled water and do not have the Transcend Water Filter it is better to run your Transcend 365 miniCPAP without humidification than to try and use unfiltered tap water. The Transcend 365 miniCPAP will operate normally without water in the humidifier.

Power Options

1What power options are available?

Power options for Transcend miniCPAP devices:

Power options for first-generation miniCPAPs and Transcend 3 miniCPAP devices: P8 Batteries, PSA2 AC Power Supply
Power options for Transcend 365 miniCPAP devices: P10 Battery, PSA3 AC Power Supply

2Do I need to charge the battery pack before I use it for the first time?

Yes, make sure the Transcend battery is fully charged before using it with your Transcend miniCPAP for the first time.

3Can I charge the battery pack while it is connected to my Transcend miniCPAP?

Yes, the Transcend battery can be recharged with the AC power supply while you are using your Transcend miniCPAP.

4How long will the battery power my Transcend?

The Transcend P10 Battery can power the Transcend 365 miniCPAP AND humidifier. Battery performance and humidity level will vary depending upon CPAP therapy pressure, breathing rate, tidal volume, leak rate, and altitude.

5Can Transcend miniCPAP and 365 miniCPAP be battery operated?

Yes, the P8 battery will power the Transcend miniCPAP. The P10 battery will power the Transcend 365 miniCPAP and humidifier.

Product Information

1Can I use Transcend overseas?

Yes! All Transcend miniCPAP devices include a universal AC power supply that makes it easy to use them outside the United States. The power supply includes a set of plug adaptors and automatically converts the power current so you have everything you need to use your Transcend miniCPAP internationaly. Do not use a power converter with your Transcend miniCPAP devices.

2Where can I purchase Transcend miniCPAP and its accessories and spare/replacement parts?

Transcend miniCPAP and its accessories and parts are available at reputable medical equipment dealers. You can visit our MyTranscend Store or call Transcend customer support (877-621-9626) to find a dealer near you.

3How do I travel with Transcend miniCPAP and 365 miniCPAP? Can I use it on my flight?

Carry your Transcend miniCPAP with you on your flight. As a medical device, it will not count as one of your carry-on items. Never check a sleep apnea therapy device with your baggage as it can be damaged through normal luggage handling procedures. Your doctor can provide you with a letter stating the need to carry your device with you, if necessary: Be sure to call the airline in advance to clarify procedures and in-flight policies.

4How does Transcend’s price compare to other CPAP devices?

Transcend is competitively priced with other CPAP devices on the market.

5What masks seals can I use with Transcend?

The Transcend miniCPAP and Transcend 365 miniCPAP are compatible with any CPAP mask and can be used with any standard CPAP hose.

6Does Transcend miniCPAP have a ramp feature?

Yes. Transcend miniCPAP and Transcend 365 miniCPAP provide ramp within the range of 5-45 minutes in five (5) minute increments.

7Do Transcend miniCPAP and 365 miniCPAP collect compliance data?

Yes. Transcend miniCPAP devices have internal memory that captures compliance data for up to 13 months. A full compliance report, including AHI, leak detection, hours of use, and other data can be viewed by using the Transcend Desktop Software.

8How long do the Transcend miniCPAP and 365 miniCPAP warranties run?

Transcend 3 miniCPAP and Transcend 365 miniCPAP are warranted for workmanship for a period of 3 years and 2 years respectively. In the event the Transcend CPAP must be returned for warranty replacement, contact the dealer you purchased your device from to obtain a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number. Once you have an RMA number, you can return the Transcend CPAP directly to Somnetics with that authorization number.

Transcend 3 miniCPAP also offers a 5 year Protection Plan. The Protection Plan extends the warranty to 5 years and offers full device repair or replacement in the case of accidental damage.

9Transcend miniCPAP is so small. Is it too fragile for me to use every day?

No. Transcend miniCPAP devices are built to rigorous standards. The testing requirements are established by the International Standards Organization (ISO) and passing the tests is required to obtain approval by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or regulatory agencies outside the U.S. Transcend miniCPAP devices are rugged and durable.

10Do the batteries have a warranty?

Yes. The warranty period on batteries is 9 months.

11How do I place an order for Transcend?

If you are a healthcare provider or durable medical equipment (DME) supplier you can order Transcend by calling 877-621-9626 or email sales@somnetics.com.

If you are a CPAP user you can purchase Transcend from your local DME supplier or on the internet through a number of online CPAP suppliers. Please visit our online store or call Transcend customer support (800-954-0857) to locate a dealer near you.

Operations

1What should I do if I am experiencing problems with my Transcend miniCPAP or accessories?

Your healthcare provider or Transcend Customer Support (877-621-9626) can assist you with any questions you may have.

2How is the pressure set on Transcend miniCPAP?

Pressure must be set by a Clinician or DME.

3Should “Dry Mode Cleaning” setting be run with or without tubing?

Drying mode serves as a method to dry out excess moisture remaining from device usage. As such, it is preferable to keep the hose and interface attached, but not required.

Other

1How can I learn about new accessories and advances made to Transcend miniCPAP?

Please subscribe to the Transcend miniCPAP email list on the Contact page to receive updated information about Transcend products, or email info@somnetics.com.

2Is Transcend covered by Medicare or private insurance?

Generally yes, but because reimbursements vary from company to company. You should contact your insurance company to be sure. It is recommended that you contact your local DME or healthcare provider for advice in the event you want to use your insurance to help pay for Transcend miniCPAP.

Changing CPAP Pressure

1What if I need to change the therapy pressure on my Transcend miniCPAP?

Your clinician or durable medical equipment (DME) dealer will set therapy pressure for you. If you need to change your therapy pressure setting after you have received your Transcend, you must contact your dealer and have them make the appropriate adjustments for you.

2Do I need to make any adjustments to my Transcend if I travel or fly at high altitudes?

No. Transcend automatically compensates therapy pressure to altitudes of up to 8,000 feet.

Troubleshooting Guide

1Problem: The Transcend miniCPAP LED lights on the keypad do not go through the initial flash sequence when the CPAP is connected to a power source.

Possible Cause: Power is not completely connected to the CPAP.

Solution: Ensure that the power source is completely and correctly connected to the Transcend CPAP.

Possible Cause: Power source is defective.

Solution: Ensure that a solid green LED light shows up on the AC power supply or DC mobile power adaptor when it is plugged into a power outlet and connected to the Transcend CPAP. If you are using a battery, check that the battery is fully charged A green LED light will appear on the battery when it is plugged into the power supply if the battery is fully charged. If there is a fault with the battery, a red LED will appear.

2Problem: CPAP shuts off unexpectedly.

Possible Cause: Mask is not fitted properly, resulting in excessive air leak.

Solution: Ensure your mask is fitted securely and comfortably against your face. Please refer to your Transcend Quick Guide - Fitting section for detailed instructions.

Possible Cause: Mask tubing is not fully connected.

Solution: Check that the mask tubing is completely connected to the CPAP and mask. See your Transcend Quick Guide - Connecting section for detailed instructions.

Possible Cause: Power is not completely connected to the CPAP.

Solution: Ensure that the power source is completely and correctly connected to the Transcend CPAP.

Possible Cause: Power source is defective.

Solution: Ensure that a solid green LED light shows up on the AC power supply or DC mobile power adaptor when it is plugged into a power outlet and connected to the Transcend CPAP. If you are using a battery, check that the battery is fully charged. A green LED light will appear on the battery when it is plugged into the power supply if the battery is fully charged. If there is a fault with the battery, a red LED will appear.

3Problem: Air pressure delivered by the Transcend miniCPAP is too low.

Possible Cause: Mask is not fitted properly, resulting in excessive air leak.

Solution: Ensure your mask is fitted securely and comfortably against your face. Please see the Transcend Quick Guide - Fitting section for detailed instructions.

Possible Cause: Air supply tube is not fully connected.

Solution: Check that the air supply tube is completely connected to the CPAP and mask. See the Transcend Quick Guide - Fitting section for detailed instructions.

Possible Cause: Air supply tube is blocked or punctured.

Solution: Check that tubing is clear of debris and free of any punctures.

Possible Cause: Air filter is dirty.

Solution: Change the air filter.

Possible Cause: The ramp feature is enabled.

Solution: To accelerate the rate of gradual pressure increase while the ramp feature is enabled, hold down the ramp button until you reach a comfortable pressure. The device will continue in ramp mode until it reaches your prescribed therapy pressure. To bypass the ramp feature, do not press the ramp button once the device is in On mode.

4Problem: No airflow from the Transcend miniCPAP system.

Possible Cause: Mask is not fitted properly, resulting in excessive air leak.

Solution: Ensure your mask is fitted securely and comfortably against your face. Please see the Transcend Quick Guide - Fitting section for detailed instructions.

Possible Cause: Air supply tube is not fully connected.

Solution: Check that the air supply tube is completely connected to the CPAP and mask. See the Transcend Quick Guide - Fitting section for detailed instructions.

Possible Cause: Air supply tube is blocked or punctured.

Solution: Check that tubing is clear of debris and free of any punctures.

Possible Cause: Air filter is dirty.

Solution: Change the air filter.

Possible Cause: The ramp feature is enabled.

5Problem: The CPAP is too noisy.

Possible Cause: Mask is not fitted properly, resulting in excessive air leak.

Solution: Ensure your mask is fitted securely and comfortably against your face. Please see the Transcend Quick Guide - Fitting section for detailed instructions.

Possible Cause: Mask tubing is not fully connected.

Solution: Check that the mask tubing is completely connected to the CPAP and mask. Please see the Transcend Quick Guide - Fitting section for detailed instructions.

Possible Cause: Air tubing is blocked or punctured.

Solution: Check that tubing is clear of debris and free of any punctures.

6Problem: Discomfort due to a feeling of high pressure.

Possible Cause: CPAP device pressure may be set too high.

Solution: Try breathing through your nose with your mouth closed. Use the ramp feature to acclimate to the pressure while falling asleep. If the pressure remains problematic, contact your homecare provider.

7Problem: LED Fault mode appears on Transcend miniCPAP keypad.

Possible Cause: There are several fault modes to signify specific errors that may occur with your Transcend CPAP.

Solution: Please see the following fault mode tables for more detailed information. When viewing the LED lights, the Device LED is the green light and the Fault LED is the amber light.

8If the Transcend miniCPAP starts blowing, ramps quickly and then shuts down, what is the problem?

In this case, the Universal Hose Adaptor (provided on Transcend miniCPAP models prior to Transcend 3) is not attached correctly to the Transcend miniCPAP, the mask is leaking significantly, or the mask is not on the patient. Transcend miniCPAP is designed to shut down if there is no resistance to air flow. If the problem persists after checking the Universal Hose Adaptor and securely placing the mask on the patient, check the Fault descriptions in the Transcend User Guide or contact your homecare provider for assistance.

9Lights are blinking on the back of my Transcend miniCPAP. What do they mean?

Blinking LED lights can indicate many things. Refer to the Transcend miniCPAP User Manual for full explanation.