Frequently Asked Questions about CPAP Care, Treatment and Supplies

What items should I replace on my CPAP machine and when?

Physicians, product manufacturers and insurance companies recommend that specific components of your CPAP machine be replaced at a regular basis.  The frequency with which these items should be replaced varies.

Below is a breakdown of the items that should be replaced, how often and why.

Monthly

• Nasal Pillows
• Even with normal use these items stretch, crack and wear away, causing leaks which diminish the effectiveness of your therapy.
• Mask’s Cushion and Seal
• Tightening and compression from normal use erodes the seal and diminishes the effectiveness of your therapy.  Effective pressure seals are essential to your therapeutic success.

Every 3 Months

• Tubing
• CPAP tubes are designed to be pliable for greater freedom while you sleep.  Unfortunately, this also makes them more likely to tear and leak.  They are also a common source for bacterial buildup.
• Disposable Filters
• Just like the air filter in your home, these items need to be replaced regularly.  Failure to do so will cause your CPAP machine to work harder, shortening its life span significantly.  Also, like your tubing, filters are a common source for bacterial buildup.
• Mask
• Just like your Cushion and Seal, normal use weakens the pressure seal which causes ineffective air flow and diminishing returns on your therapy.

Every 6 Months

• Headgear
• (See Mask)
• Water Chamber
• Like your tubing and filters, bacterial buildup (and in some instances, chemicals from cleaning) can build up here and enter your lungs through the machine’s air flow system.
• Chinstrap
• (See Mask & Headgear or Cushion and Seal)
• Non-Disposable Filter
• (See Disposable Filters)

Return to Frequently Asked Questions