For those requiring CPAP therapy for sleep apnea, having the right humidifier can make all the difference in the world for comfort and compliance. Dry air flowing from your CPAP machine can irritate your airways, causing discomfort and often non-compliance with therapy. This is where having the proper humidification for your CPAP can be a game changer.
ResMed makes two excellent heated humidifiers for use with their CPAP and BiPAP machines – the HumidX and HumidX Plus. While both add moisture to the air to make therapy more comfortable, there are some key differences between the two models.
Below we’ll explore the pros and cons of the ResMed HumidX and HumidX Plus so you can determine which model might be the right fit for your needs and preferences.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | HumidX | HumidX Plus |
| Humidification Technology | Heated humidification | Climate Control technology |
| Preset Comfort Settings | No | Yes |
| Water Tank Capacities | 365 ml | 365 ml or 750 ml |
| Advanced Features | No | Ambient light sensor, usage tracking, auto shut-off |
| Estimated Humidity Control Precision | Standard | Enhanced |
| Price | $xxx | $xxx |
Overview Of The ResMed HumidX Humidifier
The ResMed HumidX is an entry-level heated humidifier that uses an integrated heating element to warm distilled or demineralized water in the humidifier’s tank. As air passes through the humidifier chamber on its way to your CPAP mask, the vaporized moisture is added to the air flow to provide humidification.
Some key features of the HumidX include:
- Integrated heating plate and temperature control humidifies room-temperature water
- Auto-sense technology detects changes in temperature, humidity, and flow rate to adjust humidification levels accordingly
- Daily and cumulative run time tracking provides usage data
- Top fill design makes refilling easy
- 365 ml tank capacity lasts through the night for most users
- Humidification level adjustable from 1 – 10
The HumidX is designed to be simple and straightforward to set up and use. It provides basic heated humidification at an affordable price point compared to more advanced models.
Overview Of The ResMed HumidX Plus Humidifier
The ResMed HumidX Plus is a step up in features and performance from the base HumidX model. It uses ResMed’s Climate Control technology to deliver more precise temperature and humidity levels during therapy.
Some key features of the HumidX Plus include:
- Climate Control technology optimizes humidity output based on environmental conditions
- Preset comfort settings for easy adjustment
- 365 ml and 750 ml water tank options
- Top fill humidifier design
- Daily and cumulative usage tracking
- Auto shut-off when tank is empty
- Built-in ambient light sensor adjusts screen brightness
The HumidX Plus uses an algorithm to continually monitor the temperature and calculate the proper humidity output to avoid rainout in the CPAP tube. It can also automatically adjust settings based on changes in room temperature and other environmental factors. The presets make it easy to switch between comfort settings like “dry nose” or “dry mouth” with the touch of a button.
Overall, the HumidX Plus provides more advanced humidification technology in a user-friendly package. The added features help maintain consistent, comfortable humidity levels throughout the night.
Key Differences Between The HumidX And HumidX Plus
Now that we’ve outlined the basics of the ResMed HumidX and HumidX Plus, let’s look at some of the major differences between the two humidifier models:
- Humidity Technology – The HumidX uses basic heated humidification. The HumidX Plus uses Climate Control technology to digitally monitor humidity levels and automatically adjust the output.
- Preset Comfort Settings – The HumidX Plus has presets like “dry nose” and “dry mouth” to easily adjust humidity levels. The HumidX does not have presets.
- Tank Capacity – The standard HumidX tank holds 365 ml of water. The HumidX Plus comes in 365 ml and 750 ml tank options for fewer refills.
- Advanced Features – The HumidX Plus has a light sensor, on-device usage tracking, auto shut-off when empty, and other bonus features not included with the base HumidX.
- Price – As ResMed’s higher tier model, the HumidX Plus carries a higher MSRP than the entry-level HumidX. However, pricing can vary by retailer.
When choosing between the two, the HumidX Plus clearly provides a more advanced humidification experience. But the HumidX may still be suitable for CPAP users who desire basic heated humidification at a lower price point.
HumidX Vs. HumidX Plus: Pros And Cons Comparison
To help summarize the key differences between the ResMed HumidX and HumidX Plus, here is an overview of some of the main pros and cons of each model:
ResMed HumidX
Pros:
- Lower cost than the HumidX Plus
- Simple setup and operation
- Integrated heating plate
- Adjustable humidification levels
- Auto-adjusting technology
- Top fill tank
Cons:
- Only one 365 ml tank option
- No humidity presets
- Fewer advanced features
- Less precise humidity control
ResMed HumidX Plus
Pros:
- Climate Control technology for more precise humidity
- Preset comfort settings
- 365 ml or 750 ml tank options
- Ambient light sensor
- Usage tracking
- Auto shut-off when tank empty
Cons:
- Higher price than base HumidX model
- Some users may not require advanced features
As you can see, the HumidX Plus carries a higher price tag but adds some useful functionality for improving humidification performance and ease of use. The base HumidX remains a solid option for simple heated humidification.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The main differences are that the HumidX Plus uses Climate Control technology to more precisely monitor and adjust humidity levels based on room conditions. It also has preset comfort settings, larger tank options, and additional features like auto shut-off and usage tracking. The HumidX provides basic heated humidification at a lower cost.
The HumidX Plus is designed to add heated moisture to a CPAP or BiPAP therapy device to make treatment more comfortable. The Climate Control technology helps optimize humidity levels throughout the night. It can be used with most ResMed CPAP and BiPAP machines.
The HumidX Plus uses an algorithm to digitally monitor temperature and humidity. Based on environmental factors, it calculates the specific humidity output needed to avoid rainout in the CPAP tube. Preset comfort settings make it easy to adjust the humidity level as needed.
The HumidX Plus humidifier itself is built to last for years of regular use. The water tank holds either 365 ml or 750 ml of water. For most users, a full water tank lasts a typical night of sleep on CPAP without needing a refill. Tank life can vary based on therapy settings and environmental conditions.
Also Read: Is Sinusonic Better Than Navage?
The Verdict
- The HumidX Plus provides more advanced humidification technology while the HumidX offers basic heated humidification.
- Consider your budget – the HumidX Plus costs more than the base model HumidX.
- Factor in tank capacity – the HumidX Plus offers a 750 ml tank while the HumidX capacity is 365 ml.
- Determine if preset comfort settings would be beneficial for your therapy needs.
- Assess whether the extra features like usage tracking and auto shut-off on the HumidX Plus are worthwhile.
- Be sure the humidifier you select is compatible with your CPAP or BiPAP machine.
The right humidifier can significantly improve CPAP compliance and comfort. Both the ResMed HumidX and HumidX Plus are excellent options – the Plus model provides more robust humidification and convenience if it fits your budget and preferences.
Assessing your needs and priorities can help determine whether the core HumidX model or advanced HumidX Plus is the best choice for you.
