It is recommended that you replace the parts as often as insurance is willing to pay for these replacements.
Mask
Replace your maskevery three months.
The mask is the harder plastic portion of your interface.
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Replace the softer plastic cushion insert or pillows that actually touch your skin more often.
Mask Cushion and Pillows
Replace the mask cushion or nasal pillows as often astwo times per month.
This is the part of the mask that actually touches your face.
If you have a full-face mask, plan to replace this cushiononce per month.
Headgear
In general, replace headgearevery six months.
Neoprene is the stretchy material that helps to accommodate the shape of your head to ensure an optimal mask.
As it repeatedly stretches, it may start to give too much and not keep a proper seal.
In addition, oils from your skin or hair may also accumulate.
If the headgear appears discolored or no longer holds a seal, it is time to replace it.
Chinstrap
Replace your chinstrapevery six months.
Much like the headgear that keeps the CPAP mask in place, achinstrapmay gradually weaken and become overly stretched.
The Velcro may also become less effective over time.
Tubing
Replace CPAP tubing, whether it is heated or standard,every three months.
Tubing gets dirty over time, with condensation increasing the risk of contaminants that could key in your lungs.
Small holes that form as the plastic of the tubing breaks down reduce the treatments efficacy.
Filters
Your CPAP machine may have two types of filters, both of which require regular replacement.
Disposable paper filters are generally replaced every month, or when the paper is visibly discolored.
The ResMed AirSense machines have a filter that the company recommends replacingevery month.
Humidifier Water Chamber
Replace the water tank that functions as the humidifierevery six months.
If your CPAP has an integrated or attached heated humidifier, clean and occasionally replace the water chamber.
Not usingdistilled watermay lead to further problems with keeping the water reservoir clean.
If you change insurance or pay out of pocket, you may be able to replace the unit sooner.
ResMed.When to replace CPAP supplies.
