CO2inhaler instructions

The CO2inhaler device with all connections on the back, a blue hose for your CO2 source, a regulator that fits SodaStream style canisters, an adapter for a regular sized CO2 tank, a power adapter, and two masks with tubing in two sizes. If you plan to use it a lot, we recommend a regular sized CO2 tank, covered below.

1. 1The CO2inhaler device. Every connection is on the back panel.
   
2. 2The blue supply hose and the SodaStream style regulator.
   
3. 3The power adapter.
   
4. 4Two masks with tubing, in two sizes.
   

1. 1Push one end of the tubing into the fitting on the mask.
   
2. 2The other end goes to the back of the device, onto the small tubing connector on the right side.
   

1. 1Get to know the regulator. The small valve on the side is a pressure relief valve: if there is ever too much pressure, it vents from there. The barbed fitting is where the blue hose connects. Some units have a black ring and some have a white ring, either is fine.
   
2. 2Hand tighten the regulator onto the SodaStream canister. You will hear a little puff noise as it seats, which is normal. Snug it until you feel some resistance, no tools needed.
   
3. 3Before you start, make sure the pressure knob is turned all the way to the left.
   
4. 4Push the blue tube into the fitting on the regulator.
   
5. 5Push the other end into the connector on the left side of the back of the device. To remove a tube later, press the ring in and pull the tube out at the same time.
   

1. 1Plug the power adapter into the back of the machine.
   
2. 2Press the white on and off button.
   
3. 3Wait about 10 seconds before turning any CO2 on. The device runs a calibration phase at startup, adjusting to your temperature and atmospheric pressure.
   
4. 4The reading should start close to 0%. The sensor has a little noise, so a reading of 0.6 or 0.7% at rest is normal.
   

1. 1Set the pressure. Turn the regulator knob clockwise until the gauge reads about 15 to 20 psi. If you overshoot, turn it counterclockwise, vent a little with the relief valve, and dial it back in.
   
2. 2Set the time. Presets run 5 to 30 minutes, and the plus one button adds a single minute, even in the middle of a session.
   
3. 3Raise the CO2 level slowly. Turn the knob to the right in small movements. The percentage shows on the display, and the LED bar on the right side mirrors it.
   
4. 4Start low. For your first sessions, 2 to 3% for 5 or 10 minutes is the right starting range. You can always increase later.
   
5. 5Intervals, once you are comfortable. To train CO2 tolerance, raise the level to around 6% for 10 to 30 seconds, then bring it back down to 2 or 3% to catch your breath. Gauge it by your breathing: noticeably heavier is right, panting is too much.
6. 6Know the limit. The device tops out at 9%. We recommend staying under 8%.
7. 7After the session, turn the regulator knob all the way back to zero until you feel light resistance, without forcing it. Press the reset button to end the session. A little CO2 remains in the system, which is fine.
   

A 20 lb tank lasts about six months of regular personal use, and refills run about $25 at a welding supply store. SodaStream canisters are available at Amazon, Target, and Walmart; exchange empties at Target customer service for about $15 versus about $30 new, and one lasts about a week of moderate use.

1. 1Disconnect from the SodaStream: turn the pressure down, pull the relief valve to vent, remove the blue tube, then unscrew the regulator.
   
2. 2Use the included adapter. Check that the white washer is seated inside it, then hand tighten it onto the tank.
   
3. 3Screw the SodaStream regulator onto the adapter. Hand tight is enough, no wrench needed, but make it good and snug.
   
4. 4Connect the blue tube to the regulator and the device before you open the tank valve.
   
5. 5Open the tank valve, and never stand in front of the tank while you do. It is very high pressure, and if something was not seated correctly you do not want it coming off toward you.
6. 6Set the pressure to 15 to 20 psi and run your session exactly the same way.
   

1. 1Put the mask on and pull the green strings forward to tighten it. Two sizes are included, so use the one that seals comfortably.
   
2. 2Between uses, clean the mask with soap and water.

1. 1Stop the session with the reset button.
   
2. 2Whether you are on the SodaStream or the tank, turn the CO2 source all the way off.
   
3. 3Release the remaining pressure from the line. Pressure left in the system wears on the regulator bladder over time.
   
4. 4Turn the regulator knob all the way down.