CPAP and Supplies Replacement Schedule

CPAP machines do not necessarily have a shelf life. However, in today’s technologically fast-paced world, CPAP machines are constantly evolving. Keeping this in mind, the effectiveness of and your satisfaction with your therapy will also change over time.

It is necessary to continually follow up with your sleep doctor and/or physician regularly to know where you are with your sleep apnea diagnosis.

My last two CPAP machines seemed to be the same; why change?

Sooner than you realize, the very CPAP machine you are using will be given a version update to perform certain functions and to update the internal software of the CPAP machine. 

This internal software, also known as an algorithm, is used to interpret your sleep habits for data reports and for the machine to adjust on the fly to your therapy needs.

So, if they are updated so often, how do I know if I should replace my CPAP machine?

As much as it is important to keep current on your sleep apnea therapy, it would not be cost-effective to purchase a new machine when the newest released version is out.

That being said, be sure to contact us at Respshop.com or your local DME for a side-by-side comparison and analysis to make sure your therapy is on the right track.

So, when is the best time to replace my CPAP?

Medical insurance has a replacement timeline of five years, which may very well change soon due to the advancements that continue to evolve. 

At Respshop.com, we recommend replacing your CPAP machine every 3 – 5 Years. Check out our CPAP machine selection and always feel free to contact us @ 1-866-936-3754 or email at sales@respshop.com if you have any questions.

Protecting the CPAP user from dust particles and other allergens, disposable filters for CPAP machines are the most cost-effective and easiest way to improve your sleep apnea therapy. Each machine has its own unique filter fibers that are sized for the specific design of your machine.

How do I know it’s time to replace my filter?

Check your filter every one to two days and look for an over-saturation of gray or brown coloring throughout the filter. This shows the sign of needing to be replaced. 

Look to our CPAP filter section for your CPAP machine replacements. Respshop recommends you swap out the disposable filters at least every three to six weeks.

CPAP tubing is the direct link from the CPAP machine to the CPAP mask user. As the air passes through the tubing, it can accumulate ambient bacteria in just a short period of time. 

Even when you simply leave tubing out during daytime hours, dust, allergens, and harmful bacteria accumulate.

How do I avoid the bacteria from affecting my therapy?

Maintaining a daily cleaning regimen is the first defense against bacteria. One method of cleaning is to use a small tub filled with warm water and a light detergent. Place the tubing in the water for a thorough rinse.

For deeper cleaning, pick up our innovative CPAP tubing brush. Use it in combination with the above instructions for a more abrasive scrubbing motion. 

While cleaning your tube daily is great for upkeep, unremovable bacteria will build over time, and it is recommended that you replace your tubing every three months.

Q: I have tubing from my previous CPAP machine. Isn’t tubing universal?

A: Tubing is generally universal, yes. The only exception is heated tubing, which is specific to each machine or manufacturer. Keep in mind that tubing needs to be replaced on a regular basis, and thus it’s always good to have a backup.

While heated humidifiers aren’t a required part of each CPAP user’s setup, the increased usage of humidifiers is apparent in today’s sleep apnea culture. 

The water chamber inside the humidifier is a cleanable and replaceable component. It is highly suggested to use strictly distilled water for the tub’s contents because of the minerals and calcium in tap or other water sources.

They can create a film and/or mineral deposits that cannot be removed from the water tank. Calcium buildup and minerals can lead to decreased effectiveness of therapy, causing your sleep apnea to suffer.

My water chamber is dishwasher friendly; isn’t this enough to prevent these issues?

Yes, using the dishwasher will provide a longer life for the chamber. However, this does not completely resolve the long-term conflict of calcium and minerals accumulating inside the chamber. It is recommended that your CPAP humidifier be changed every 6-12 months.

CPAP masks are possibly the most important component of sleep apnea therapy, as they directly connect the user to the CPAP machine. 

While inhaling/exhaling spreads germs throughout the mask components and tubing, each mask has the ability to be disassembled for a more thorough cleaning and the ability to swap out the individual mask parts. 

Replacing the cushion and headgear regularly is a great habit, as it prevents you from breathing in harmful germs or bacteria.

If I am swapping out the cushion and headgear, why should I buy a new entire mask?

Keep in mind that over time all the components within the mask either wear out or accumulate harmful germs. Replacing the entire mask every six months will help achieve the highest quality of sleep apnea therapy.

Q: How often should I replace my CPAP face cushion?

A: Every two weeks. 

Mask cushions are the most overlooked item that, if not cleaned on a timely basis, can lead to severe skin irritation, pneumonia, and overall poor health. This piece touches your skin daily, and most skin is very sensitive to the mask pressure and overall cleanliness. 

Healthcare professionals have continued to stress to our company that users need to be aware that the silicon and gel cushions today are not being replaced frequently enough. 

However, when cushions are replaced, most CPAP users immediately see fewer leaks, irritation, and allergies.

But I have used my mask for 2 years and have no issues, duct tape and all?

As much as we would like to make a CPAP mask last forever, the health risks are not worth the prolongation. We have seen very extreme cases of sores caused by the mask cushion contact leading to infection, and then the end result is a nearly irreversible skin disease. To prevent this, make sure you sanitize your CPAP mask cushion daily and replace it every two weeks.

Elastic and velcro quickly lose their tightness and bond. You will notice mask leaks, frequent readjustment, and therapy deteriorating, while the headgear is near the end of its tenure. Not only will you experience therapy side effects, but the oil, dirt, and unsanitary buildup over time can work their way into other issues.

I don’t mind tightening the mask when needed; I should be fine, right?

Waking up in order to tighten the mask is similar to sleep apnea. Don’t compromise your therapy when headgear replacement has so many benefits and only needs replacing every three months.