Your CPAP Equipment — How Often to Change CPAP Filter and Other Components

Your CPAP Equipment — How Often to Change CPAP Filter and Other Components

Do I need to maintain my CPAP device? How often to change the CPAP filter? Do I need to clean my nosepiece?
These are some of the most common questions when people first start using a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure, or CPAP. 
We’re here to tell you that you need to clean your CPAP equipment regularly and replace specific components. Some of the most common problems you’ll probably face using a poorly maintained device include: 

Skin irritations such as rashes or pressure sores.Aerophagia (the medical term for eating air) leading to gas or bloating.Stuffy nose and nose bleedsDry mouthStuff noseMouth, sinus, and lung infections from accumulated germs and bacteria.In some cases, more severe health issues such as fatigue, heart arrhythmias, and high blood pressure have been reported when the CPAP device is poorly maintained or used in a defective state.

Below, we’ll discuss how to take good care of your CPAP device. We’ll go over how often to change the CPAP filter and other parts. 

What CPAP Equipment Parts Need Maintenance?

The CPAP Mask

The mask is the part of the device that covers your nose and mouth, depending on your device’s model. It transports pressurized air to the airways. It’s crucial you keep your mask in top condition, as it significantly affects your CPAP machine’s performance. Once you notice any leaks on your mask, or it’s suddenly become uncomfortable — it’s time to replace the mask. You can explore getting a different model if you think it’s uncomfortable due to the mask’s style.

How Often Should You Change the Tubing?

You should replace the tubing after three months of usage. Using it beyond that reduces the efficacy of the CPAP treatment. 

We recommend using distilled water to reduce the risk of bacteria and mineral buildup. 

When Should You Replace the Humidifier Water Chamber? 

Change the water chamber after six months. Within those six months, endeavor to remove and clean the water chamber occasionally. You can do this every thirty days. You should also change the water daily. 

What About the CPAP Device?

Yes, you also need to replace the device at some point. Your device warranty only lasts for one year, so you should consider getting insurance coverage that kicks in once the warranty of your CPAP machine expires. If you travel a lot, the machine will often degrade faster, so you may want to get a backup device. 

When Should You Replace Your CPAP Machine?

The average lifespan of a CPAP machine is 5 – 7 years. So, depending on the frequency of use or exponential improvements in technology, you should aim to replace the device every 3 – 7 years. 

Bottom Line

The filter has a reputation of being the most important CPAP part to clean. But how often to change the CPAP filter depends on the filter you’re using. If you have a foam filter, you can expect to change it every six months. If it’s paper, then every two weeks is best.

However, do not forget to clean and maintain every part of your CPAP machine! The chinstrap is just as important to keep in pristine condition as the tubing.

Keep this guide in mind so your CPAP is always as clean and efficient as possible. 

 

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