I have a really hard time getting the Q tube open so I've been leaving it in place, taking the downstream tubing off, and letting the Z1 run for a while to air it out. I have no humidifier function (that would get it wet) and it's six feet of tubing away from my mask so I doubt I'm exhaling into it. Also, this is not a humid area and I'm not getting any condensation on any part of the equipment.
Do I really have to disassemble this every day in order to keep it from growing mold or bacteria? Does anyone have a good hack for keeping it dry and free of contamination? If replacing the foam in the baffle regularly is all I really need to do how often should I do that? The replacement foam piece is not expensive. Are there any good techniques for getting it apart or back together (I know how but it's too hard on my hands and I don't to force it)?
Thanks in advance!