Respironics Comfort Gel Nasal Mask and Headgear

by Anonymous on April 7, 2008

mine broke at the ball and socket also i have it strapped around the hose it very comfortable just need a way to keep it from breaking

by Anonymous on October 22, 2007

ALERT you can buy just the replacement forehead swivel clip pc at cpapusa.com for $17.00 product code 1018401 I have tried several other masks and I can't seep without this one - EDITOR NOTE: THIS PART IS AVAILABLE HERE AS WELL, FOR LESS.

by Anonymous on April 16, 2008

FIX THE PROBLEM!!! OR REDESIGN THE STRAP HOLDERS!!!

by Anonymous on June 6, 2008

For all of you suffering from the breakage of your Comfort Gel CPAP masks, write to the Better Business Bureau in Respironics area. I did and am awaiting their response, if you do also it may help everyone involved. I'll give you the address. BBB of Western Pennsylvania (Pittsburgh, PA) 300 Sixth Avenue, Ste. 100-UL Pittsburgh , PA 15222-2511 Phone: (412)456-2700 Fax: (412)456-2739 Email: info@pittsburgh.bbb.org Web: http://www.westernpennsylvania.bbb.org

by Anonymous on February 28, 2009

Pressure from the mask on my teeth roots is causing my teeth to move. No one tells you the it might cause dental problems. I had mine about 6 months and have it adjusted as loose as possible. I will go to the pillow type.

by Anonymous on November 18, 2007

I have tried several masks and even those with nose pillows and I like to sleep on my side so this one gives me the best comfort. I've never had any trouble with the ball or any breakage. I love this mask and it's very easy to clean.

by Anonymous on July 23, 2008

I've used this gear for years and had the material break on me, usually from overtightening. I have used my Dremel to drill small holes where the socket are and made a wire harness for the ball. They outlast the plastic and still give full freedom of movement.

by Anonymous on March 24, 2009

The thin silicone lining burns the face, the left clip broke, the straps tighten up when you lay on the side causing pain in two opposite points, and the headband slips up and down. Very dissatified after four months of us.

by Anonymous on February 1, 2009

I really like the comfort...especially since I figured out the magic adjustment combination. Only ball/swivel on the triangle piece breaking off. The first was 3 months on a business trip, super glue/scotch tape held it together until my therapist could get a new one for a mere $350!!! 2 months later broke again...super glued for a few months without problem. Not buying a new mask ever few months. It would appear this part requires a redesign or just let us buy the plastic frame w/attach points.

by Anonymous on September 7, 2008

Comfortable -yes, but ball and socket design is terrible. FIX IT OR TAKE IT OFF THE MARKET!!!

by Anonymous on June 23, 2008

mine breaks also. fis it with hot glue gun and it lasts for a year or two.

by Anonymous on March 3, 2010

I love the mask, it's very comfortable. The problem is the clips brake easy. I have gone through two mask in less than 6 months.

by Anonymous on July 14, 2009

I like the mask OK, but like almost everyone else, mine broke at the ball socket. At this point, since Respironics has shown no inclination to fix this, it's clearly a deliberate marketing tool. I'm investigating other masks. I can't be without one, and the last time it broke, I was on vacation. Not reliable.

by Anonymous on October 23, 2008

Me too, the ball socket broke in 6 months. It would be very easy for them to add a little material to the mask to prevent this. If my new one breaks, I will have to go to another mfgrs model.

by Anonymous on August 23, 2008

Same problem. Two masks and two broken sockets. If I owned their company, the problemn would be fixed or anyone involved would be fired.

by on June 12, 2007

GREAT WHEN NEW, BUT FRGILE. SLIGHTLY FILE CLEAR ARMS THAT LOCK IN THE HINGE BALL FOR INCREASED LIFE OF FRAME.

by Anonymous on May 6, 2012

ok, but the ball socket continues to be a problem. Is anyione listening?

by Anonymous on February 15, 2012

You are all over-tightening your mask. I have used this mask for 6 years and have NEVER had anything break. Seriously, I have had zero issues with my mask. I wish that the mask would last longer. The gel seems to biodegrade or something, cause after while it stops being comfortable (firm).

by PHIL1960 on January 3, 2012

Never had a problem with the ball/socket. I did have the plastic pivot on the forehead piece break after 2.5 years. Otherwise I just kept it clean and safely stored when not using it. I just don't care for the harness as it slips to easily while sleeping.

by Anonymous on November 3, 2011

I have had this mask for over 1 year and never a problem with it. I am odering a new strap today, but it is a great mask and comfortable.

by Anonymous on February 18, 2011

I have been using the Comfort Gel mask for 3 years and have had not one break, they fit vary well and are comfortable.

by Anonymous on May 18, 2010

Had a Ultra Mirage II and it just wasn't sealing properly replaced everything, found this one and it is the best mask I have used in the last 10 years.

by Anonymous on March 28, 2010

Finally fixed the problem with the frame breaking where the black socket snaps in! Now this mask is PERFECT! Thanks!

by Anonymous on March 3, 2010

I Use an auto adjusting BiPAP and have found the ComfortGel Nasal Mask to be the best of all I have tested with the variable pressure of my machine. Everything els leaked badly due to the constant pressure changes. I have two of these masks, one was my selsom used back-up mask for my old CPAP and one is relatively new. I have had no sign of problems with the sockets breaking, even though I am an active sleeper (I change positions often as arthritis pain causes discomfort). I alternate masks every other night, so maybe that has helped. I clean the mask I wore the previous night and hang dry it to help it keep fresher. Seems to work well so far, with virtually no sign of wear on the mask that is over a year old or the newer one (which does appear to be made a little sturdier. I carefully do not overtighten the lower straps too. so maybe that is a factor on the sockets holding up. I did not like the headgear that came with the mask, so I adapted the 5 strap headgear from a Fisher&Paykel Acclaim2 mask that I had tested and did not like. The top strap keeps the mask from sliding down my face and does take pressure off the lower straps. The top strap is threaded through the forehead rest and fits there well. This set up is fairly comfortable, doesn't cause pressure points, as adapted it stays in place, and it has few air leak problems. The leaks are easily solved by pulling the mask lightly from the face and resettling it, even while running. I was fortunate to have an old "spare" ComfortGel nasal mask, but now having two that I can rotate every other night is a nice option to have. When I finally replace the older mask, my current "newer" mask will become the Old one in the rotation. I do recommend getting the replacement forehead pads and changing them regularly. They do start to get stiff and you can feel the difference when you change them out.

by Anonymous on February 9, 2010

The mechanism that holds the ball connection broke off from the mask. Obviously, I'm not the only person who has encurred this problem with this "design characteristic". These masks should have been recalled, not just waiting until the bnreakage occurs.

by Anonymous on September 23, 2009

Size small is too big for my face - can not get a good seal and it puts pressure on my upper lip/upper gums to the point of me having to remove it halfway through the night due to pain. Size Petite - huge difference in size! It fits a bit too snug and although it doesn't hurt, I do not feel rested when I use it. It is almost like my nose fills the cavity too full and the exhaled air is not properly vented. I have not had a good nights sleep with either of these masks. Also, ball and joint are very flimsy.

by Anonymous on August 17, 2009

I have had the same problem with the ball & socket. I have had 2 masks that have broken at the socket. Great mask, but a very poor design on the socket. I think the company is aware of the problem & refuses to redesign the piece.

by Anonymous on August 14, 2009

This is the 2nd one in 5 months! They have both broke in the same place (ball & socket) Respronics should replace every one under warranty. This is clearly a poor design! It's awesome when it all together love it.

by Anonymous on May 28, 2009

I'm about to order this particular mask for myself. I tried 3 differnt types of mask when I was first put on the CPAP in 2008. I had a wild idea to try something different the first of the year when my insurance would replace it and choose a different type. HATED it and gave it away. I ordered another type and although it was better than the nasal type, it's still not as good and comfortable as the Comfort Gel.

by Anonymous on April 24, 2009

The sockets break so you can reinforce them on a new unit or for a cheap fix use a chin strap areound the mask. I used A LOT of hot glue to reinforce a broken socket and it has worked for several months after the original breaking in 2 weeks.

by Anonymous on April 21, 2009

Ditto, ball and socket too brittle, nearly right away. Mine has been repaired several times, super glue, and now with wire, a mirror clip and screws!!! With no insurance and limited funds, glad I have a resourceful hubby!!!

by jamesf991 on April 4, 2009

Pretty good mask, but the PLASTIC TABS HOLDING THE STRAP IN PLACE BREAKS. This is poor engineering design and should be FIXED! I've had similar problems of brittle plastic parts with other Respironics masks. One of their masks broke while I was on tour in rural Ireland. It was a real treat trying to find superglue in the little village shops. I'm going to try a mask from a different manufacturer in the future.

by Anonymous on March 16, 2009

Seems like the breaking at the swivel holders is a problem. I just tie mine above the hose and it holds

by Anonymous on March 11, 2009

The ball and socket on my mask broke, where the ball is held in by the socket...very discouraging as I haven't had my mask for a year yet, and I have no insurance to help with buying another mask!!! *Moderator's Note* - While we have many comments about the ComfortGel's design problems (and all of these we have reported to the manufacturer, Respironics!), please note that any CPAP mask is not designed to last more than 6 months. The masks are disposable goods, and while some masks are more durable than others, all are rated for 3-6 months of use.

by Anonymous on February 16, 2009

I also have had problems with ball and socket several times over last few years,broke fore head adjustment once. Super glue and plastic wire ties.I also have to buy mine.

by Anonymous on February 11, 2009

clips at chin mounts break very easy . constant problem. got to be a better way or is it this makes you more money

by Anonymous on January 24, 2009

Five stars for fit and comfort 0 stars for durability. 6 masks in two years. could at least sell the part that keeps breaking

by Anonymous on January 19, 2009

I have never had any problems with the ball and socket things. My only problem has been with the clip that mask portion that has the adjusters on it. They break and then I end up rigging it with shoelaces to hold the forehead gear in the right position so that I can get the right seal. Need a better design for this problem.

by Anonymous on December 29, 2008

same old same old== breaks at retainers (socket head holders) great product otherwise== why can't they fix this==Dr. Stone

by Anonymous on December 25, 2008

I find it expremely funny that the part of this mask that breaks all the time is the only part Respironics does not sell a replacement part for!!!!!!. Most of us are on fixed income, and can not affort to upgrade to a different machine. You need to seriously consider fixing this problem, or at the least supply us with a replacement part a resonable price!

by Anonymous on December 22, 2008

Like everyone else I have had 3 brake at the socket, and yet no fix from what o can read and no it cost me the same wheather on insurance or I buy my self.

by Anonymous on December 21, 2008

Looks like this mask fails the legal implied warranty test for merchantability and fitness of purpose due to the ball socket design. This issue must be addressed by the manufacturer. Otherwise, very nice.

by Anonymous on December 18, 2008

Have tried several and this is the most comfortable but the ball and socket broke very easy. The straps get worn out very rapidly. Maybe the use of another durable but pliable and comfortable might be another option.

by Anonymous on December 9, 2008

Get a Fisher and Paykel mask they don't have the socket design flaw and are just as good! I had the same problem with sockets on Respironics!

by Anonymous on December 1, 2008

my husbands' mask also broke at the ball/socket - otherwise, this mask works well. He previously had a full face mask, and never could get used to it. The nasal mask doesn't bother him

by Anonymous on November 28, 2008

Great mask until the socket breaks. Three masks used, 3 broken sockets in less than two years. replaced at no charge after I complained to company. Good service, comfortable mask but not durable.

by Anonymous on November 22, 2008

Very comfortable mask, but I also have broken 3 ball sockets in less than a year. Will have to find a dfferent manufacturer with a stronger product. Too bad, just needs a simple engineering change to the injection mold.

by Anonymous on November 17, 2008

Add a 1mm radius at the ball tangent point and you will have a great product.

by Anonymous on November 12, 2008

Great mask, lousy cheap ball and socket setup. Breaks WAY too easily!

by Anonymous on October 26, 2008

Love the mask but the ball socket broke in less than 2 months

by Anonymous on October 14, 2008

Add another one to the list, ball joint broke, wish I read this review before I purchased. I have rigged dental floss around the hose piece and it works to some degree but causes the mask to lean to one side.. I am writting to the BBB, they need a recall at this point. No wonder they have raised the price, it was $59.99 when i purchased and now it's $99

by Anonymous on September 29, 2008

mask leaks badly when I move.Sorry I bought it

by Anonymous on September 23, 2008

Why write a review when it seems like the company does nothing abut the complaints?
*** EDITOR NOTE: Reviews are read by the manufacturers. All complaints are passed to the individual manufacturers by CPAPSupplyUSA.com. ***

by Anonymous on September 16, 2008

I agree. figure out how to fix the ball & socket. Super glue smells bad and doesn't hold very long. Otherwise, mask is very comfortable.

by Anonymous on August 11, 2008

This mask is very comfortable. The reason for the bad review is because it doesnt matter how comfortable it is if you cant use it. The clip holders break every few months and you have to buy a whole new mask. I refuse to buy a new one(avg 2 per year) so im trying another design-the resmed activia. We will see, it had good reviews

by Anonymous on August 1, 2008

Mine just broke again! Very confortable, but, EXTREMELY Fragile in the ball and socket area.... Perhaps the vendor should recall them...What concerns me the most, is why we use them, and, without it, it could be fatal.... Perhaps the consumer product safety commission should look into this as well...I am off to see if I can find something els... PS: at least my remstar pro, with 8900 hrs is reliable!

by Anonymous on July 25, 2008

OK mask but its a scam, Ball socket breaks way to easy and you have to buy a whole new mak. im looking for a differant one

by Anonymous on June 30, 2008

Respironics is a company that charges for cheap plastic at primium prices. They build "breakable into their products" so replacements are required.

by Anonymous on June 6, 2008

Fix your ball sockets, my provider keeps charging me for new masks everytime this weak point breaks, or is this a money maker for you????

by Anonymous on June 1, 2008

Unusual product, in that it is very comfortable to wear,but having been through 4 of them in 2 years, I think they are total JUNK. The socket holders keep breaking. But we keep buying them, so what incentive do they have to improve the product?

by Anonymous on April 13, 2008

The left swivel clip broke off of my mask 1.5 years ago. I used some super glue and duct tape to hold it in place. When the glue dried I put in some quick setting super glue EPOXY GEL made by Pacer Technology. After 1.5 years it's still holding strong.

by Anonymous on November 26, 2007

The fit of the mask is good, but the socket and ball design is a major weakness. When both of my masks failed on a recent trip, I looped several stands of dental floss to the ball and wound it around the center port of the mask.

by Anonymous on October 2, 2007

The ball and socket is the weak point on this mask. All they have to do is to make this plastic area thicker. What I do is to lay in bed and adjust the ball and socket strap then and try to put the least amount of pressure on this area.

by Anonymous on September 27, 2007

I had the same happen to me swivel socket broke. I tried to place the ball back in and it broke that cheap piece of plastic. They say it cost $160.00 to fix I told them it was joke I dont have to replace the whole thing. Sleep Wellness said dont worry yor Insurance will cover 90%. I said forget it no wonder Insurace is up so high. Im glad I wasnt the only one with this problem they need to fix this!

by Anonymous on September 7, 2007

I agree that the mask always breaks at the swivel clips! It usually breaks in the middle of the night and I have to fix it with nail glue and tape. I broke 2 in the last month. It is very comfortable to wear when it is not broke!

by Anonymous on August 20, 2007

Same 2 break points: swivel clip sockets and the forehead pad arm. Such obvious planned obsolescence is shameful.

by Anonymous on July 5, 2007

The mask works great, but the plastic housing for the swivel clips have broken on two (2) masks now in less than a year. Great business model guys. Guess I'm the sucker.

by Anonymous on May 24, 2007

When new this product work well, the clear plastic is very brittle and breaks in many areas. i repair mine with super glue and bits of plastic from cd jewl cases. also i wish the would make a fully ball socket like joint for the hose connection at the mask instead of just simple rotation.

by Anonymous on May 1, 2007

This mask is very comfortable to sleep in however it is very fragile. i average about 2 month use before the left swivel clip breaks off. My current mask broke while i was sleeping. What a way to wake up.

by Anonymous on April 1, 2007

Sometimes they break within a month - I have complained to my distributor and they say that is the way it is - this device works well but is WAY to fragile.

by Anonymous on March 21, 2010

.I like alot of the people on the list at the ball sockett broke and i really cant afford to buy a new one at the price i paid for it it should last more then 3 months other then that i really like the mask, I am clostphable and it took me a long time to get ue to it but now i can't sleepwith out it. Please some help me find a part # so i know what to order