CPAP Equipment Reorder Checklist

By Andrew Hill       06/03/2018

A CPAP machine can be the obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) patients’ best friend if used and maintained correctly. These machines allow people with OSA to breathe easier with an increase in air pressure that keeps their airways from collapsing. Maintenance is necessary to ensure your CPAP’s maximum performance and as such, it’s recommended that you replace your CPAP supplies and components on a regular basis. The following provides an in-depth checklist at what to replace through our website reorder form and when we suggest considering it.

When to Replace Mask

Almost every component within a CPAP machine must be replaced at some point in time. As the name implies, the mask is the plastic portion of the device that envelopes your face and should be replaced in its entirety every three to four months. This is due to degradation of the mask’s plastic from continuous use. While it’s important to replace your entire mask every three to four months, the cushion and pillows of your CPAP mask should be replaced more often. How you sleep, the amount of oils from your skin and how often you clean the CPAP are all factors in determining the life of cushion and pillows. If you feel that your mask’s cushion and pillows are worn out, it’s probably time to replace them.

When to Replace Mask Cushions and Nasal Pillows

Mask cushions and nasal pillows are some of the most important components to replace because they come in direct contact with your face. These components are made from silicone which will wear with time and should be replaced once the wear is noticeable. Worn mask cushions and nasal pillows allow you to feel the hard-plastic portion of the mask more acutely, which can make sleep much more difficult. If the cushions and pillows can be removed, they should be replaced around twice a month. If the mask is a full-face mask, the cushion should be replaced once a month.

When to Replace Headgear

Headgear is the component that actually attaches the device to your face. Most headgear is comprised almost entirely of neoprene due to its elastic properties. Over time, this material can lose elasticity, making it more uncomfortable and tighter when attached to your head. Once the elasticity is lost, it’s time to replace the headgear, but refer to your equipment’s user manual to see specific headgear replacement recommendations for that model.

When to Replace Tubing

The tubing that extends from the machine to the mask is one of the more important components within the device, as small issues in this area can make the machine far less efficient and potentially dangerous to your health. Over time, this tubing will get dirty. If it isn’t occasionally replaced, dirt buildup will increase the chances that contaminants are spread to your lungs. The tubing’s plastic also wears down over time, which causes the formation of tiny holes in the tubing. Since air is passed from the machine to mask, these holes make the machine far less efficient. As such, the tubing should be replaced once every three months.


When to Replace Chinstrap

The chinstrap of a CPAP machine has similar issues as the headgear. While not made of quite the same material, the velcro in a chinstrap will lose its elasticity as time goes on, making the strap tighter and less comfortable than it was in the beginning. This can increase discomfort and heighten the chances that the machine doesn’t work quite as intended. While this component is certainly important, it only needs to be replaced every six months or so.

When to Replace Filters

When to replace filters depends on what type of filters your machine uses. These filters are relatively inexpensive, but can also be manually cleaned by the wearer to lengthen their lifespan. A Respironics machine consists of two filters that need to be replaced at different intervals. The gray filter consists of a foam material and should be cleaned regularly. However, replacement is only necessary once every six months. The white paper filter that lies beneath the gray one should be replaced every two weeks.

When to Replace Humidifier Water Chamber

Whether your CPAP has an attached or integrated humidifier water chamber, it should be cleaned regularly and replaced on an occasional basis. These chambers can become cracked or discolored over time. Even small cracks can cause bacteria buildup, which can be a health hazard. It’s also recommended to use distilled water, as doing otherwise can cause the reservoir to deteriorate at a quicker pace. These water tanks should be replaced at least once every six months.

When to Replace Actual CPAP Device

In general, it’s recommended to replace a CPAP device once every five to seven years. In most cases, insurance will cover the cost of the replacement if requested after five years. However, it’s always possible that a CPAP machine can malfunction at any time for any number of reasons. To safeguard against such issues, every CPAP wearer should consider purchasing an additional device to have on hand in the event that the first one malfunctions.

Your CPAP won’t do much good if it’s filthy or desperately in need of maintenance. Make Home Sleep Delivered your trusted source for CPAP supplies and resupplies. Our process allows you to seamlessly stay on top of your CPAP’s maintenance, so that you’ll always have a pristine machine for a good night’s rest!