[Equipment] Black sticky dust in CPAP machine

[Skogcat1]

I am using a very old CPap machine (REMStar Auto - 17 years old?) and when I opened up the humidifier chamber, found sticky black dust particles inside.  I rarely use the humidification chamber, so I don't know how long it's been in there.  

This machine isn't being maintained any more by the manufacturer, so I can't get parts. The other half of the problem is that I don't have a current CPAP prescription, so I can't order a new one until I see my doctor next week.

Has anyone had this problem with their machine? I was thinking that maybe there is some way to filter out the black particles, maybe by putting loosely packed cheese cloth in the humidifier chamber.

[Gideon]

Have you tried to clean it?
and Check your filter

[Sleeprider]

If you don't have a prescription, or insurance, just upgrade at the lowest price possible. Supplier #33 can set you up with a new machine at the lowest possible cost, or check Craisgslist, Offerup or Facebook Marketplace. The best current machine is the Resmed Airsense 10 Autoset or Autoset for her.

If you have good insurnace, hang in there and you should be able to get a new machine in a month or two. If you want to use the old Respironics, disinfect the humidifier chamber and tubing with hydrogen peroxide and clean everything else as best you can. A black deposit sounds like mold or mildew.

[Skogcat1]

I will check the filter. Thanks.

[Skogcat1]

I cleaned the water chamber and ran the machine again, still getting the small dust particles, which are about the size of grains of salt.  

My thought is that there is a rubber or vinyl part that is disintegrating. If it is mold/mildew, I would have to take the machine apart to get at the parts through which the air flows.

Thanks for the CPAP recommendation.  I was able to get in touch with my doctor and should have a prescription tomorrow so I will get a new machine as soon as possible.

Thanks for everyone's help.