Letter Re: A Different Kind of Silencer

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James:
The Problem
Sleep Apnea has been a recent topic in the blog.  My wife and I both use one of “the machines”.  And although it is true many people just simply cannot get use to using them, others like us can no longer get a good nap or full night’s sleep without one.

So, what do we do if some yahoo hits the pole in route to his (with your permission Mr. Rawles) “hid-e-hole in Idaho”. Our choices were to stay up all night waiting for the power to come back on or …. Nothing!  Sleeping without “the machine” is difficult and can be downright dangerous, stroke or heart attack being top on the list of things that can beset you.  

A Solution
We have found a work-around, a way to prepare for the eventuality of a power outage by purchasing a couple of Duracell DPP-600HD Powerpack 600 Jump Starter & Emergency Power Source units. Each unit will supply a couple nights’ sleep with our CPAP machines.  Our decision to buy two units instead of one “humongous” 100 + amp battery was twofold:  1. Portability – the 100 + amp batteries weigh a ton; the Duracell jump packs are very portable giving me the ability to move them around without help and 2. Redundancy – if one of the jump pack units goes south, we still have one unit left. 

The Product
The jump packs are equipped with an AM/FM radio, flashlight, jumper cables, and charge meter, 480 watt power inverter – all supported by a 28ah AGM battery. These mini power stations run both CPAP machines which represent our most important emergency power needs.

Most sleep apnea machines today are DC-powered and are sold with the required AC adapter for normal household use.  Plug in the CPAP manufacturer’s [DC-to-DC] car adapter cable — one end into the jump pack and the other into the CPAP machine — and you’re in business for the night.  

Charging Scenarios
When the power comes back on, we plug our jump packs into the wall outlet to trickle charge – always read for the next power outage.  The built in charger will not overcharge the battery.  With the built-in jumper cable sockets, it is a simple task to plug in the cables and quickly recharge the batteries from an automobile or truck.

And in consideration of a TEOTWAWKI event we chose to construct a simple, portable solar charging station.  This solar solution includes a couple of good quality 50 watt solar panels, charger/regulator and the necessary wiring and connectors for off the grid charging capabilities.

One last suggestion:  More books Mr. Rawles.  Waiting for your next book is akin to subjecting fans to literary water boarding.  You must write faster!
Regards, – R. in Oregon