Questions, answered
Before you breathe out
The things people ask us most: how the device works, how often to use it, and what happens if shipping or the device isn't right for you.
What happens after you click checkout
Ordering, shipping & returns
How much does D-PEP cost, and is there a discount?+
D-PEP is listed here at $59, down from $69. The price shown on the checkout page in the official D-PEP shop is the amount you pay.
Where does D-PEP ship from, and how long does it take?+
Every D-PEP is made and dispatched from Burleigh Heads on the Gold Coast, Queensland. Shipping is calculated at checkout based on your delivery address, so you see the exact cost before you pay. For a delivery timeframe to your address, or for a bulk order, email peter@pepeaustralia.com.au or call +61 404 717 993.
Can I order from overseas?+
Email Peter first at peter@pepeaustralia.com.au. Overseas deliveries need a quote before an order is placed, so you're not surprised by a shipping charge later.
What if my D-PEP arrives damaged, or I get the wrong item?+
Check your order as soon as it arrives and contact us immediately if the device is defective, damaged or not what you ordered, so we can sort it out. Email peter@pepeaustralia.com.au with your order number and a photo of the item.
Can I return D-PEP if it doesn't suit me?+
Yes. The shop's policy is a 30-day return window from the day you receive your item. To be eligible it needs to be unused, in its original packaging, with your receipt or proof of purchase. Email peter@pepeaustralia.com.au to start a return — returns sent back without being requested first can't be accepted. Full terms are on the shop's refund policy page.
When do refunds come back?+
Once a return is received and inspected, an approved refund goes back to your original payment method within 10 business days. Your bank or card provider can then take a little longer to show it on your statement.
I live in the European Union — can I change my mind?+
Yes. If your order is shipped into the EU, you can cancel or return it within 14 days for any reason, as long as the item is unused and in its original packaging with your proof of purchase.
The device, in plain English
How it works
What is D-PEP and how does it clear my chest?+
D-PEP is a pocket-sized, drug-free breathing device. You breathe out through it and a stainless steel ball rattles inside a cone. That vibration, plus the gentle back-pressure on your breath, helps loosen sticky mucus in your airways so a cough or huff can move it out — the same physiotherapy technique called oscillating positive expiratory pressure (OPEP).
What's the difference between the two stages?+
Stage 1 loosens: a slightly deeper breath in, hold 2–3 seconds, then breathe out through D-PEP at a steady, fairly quick pace for 5–10 breaths, trying not to cough. Stage 2 clears: a full breath in, hold, then breathe out forcefully and as completely as you can for 1–2 breaths, then cough or huff to bring the mucus up. Repeat the cycle until your chest feels clear.
How long does a session take, and how often should I use it?+
A full session usually takes about 12–20 minutes. How many sessions a day depends on your chest and your condition, so your doctor or physiotherapist is the best person to set that for you. Most people use it once or twice a day, often before breakfast when mucus has settled overnight.
Do I need to tilt it, and does that matter?+
Yes — tilting the mouthpiece until you feel the strongest vibration in your chest is what makes it work. Keep your lips sealed and your cheeks firm so the air goes through the device, not around it.
Does it need batteries, electricity or replacements?+
No. There is nothing to charge, no electronics and no drug. It is four parts: cap, stainless steel ball, cone and pipe. You only need warm soapy water after each session.
How do I clean it?+
After each session, pull it apart into its four pieces, wash in warm soapy water, rinse well and leave upside down to dry. Make sure every part is completely dry before clicking it back together, then store it somewhere clean and dry.
How is D-PEP different from other similar devices?+
It uses the same proven steel-ball, oscillating design that physiotherapists have used for decades. A Griffith University report on devices of this design found they performed similarly to the well-known Flutter device across a range of breathing speeds and tilt angles. D-PEP is designed, made and ARTG listed in Australia (No. 351811), and is priced lower than most imported brands.
When to check with someone first
Safety & suitability
Is it safe for older adults?+
D-PEP is a personal-use, drug-free device with no moving parts to set and no pressure to dial in, which is why many people use it at home without supervision. If you are over 65, or you have heart or lung conditions, recent chest surgery, a collapsed lung, a chest drain, coughing up blood, or very low lung function, check with your doctor or physiotherapist before you start.
I felt light-headed while using it. Is that normal?+
A little light-headedness is common when you start, because you are breathing more than usual. Stop, sit and breathe normally until it passes, then use it more gently and don't push past what feels comfortable.
When should I stop and get help?+
Stop using D-PEP and seek urgent medical care for chest pain, severe or suddenly worse breathlessness, coughing up blood, blue lips or fingers, fever with worsening breathing, or confusion. These are not things a breathing device should be used to push through.
Does it replace my inhalers, nebuliser or chest physiotherapy?+
No. D-PEP is a support for clearing mucus, not a treatment for your condition. Keep taking your medicines and keep your other therapy unless your health professional tells you otherwise.
Can children use it?+
The device is sized and designed for adults. If you are thinking about it for a child, ask their physiotherapist or doctor first — they will tell you whether an oscillating PEP device suits that child's age and condition.
Still not sure?
Peter answers his own emails and phone calls — no call centre. Ask about your condition, your delivery address or a bulk order, and he'll tell you straight whether D-PEP is the right fit.
Ready when you are
One device, four parts, no batteries. Loosen in the morning, clear your chest, get on with your day.