If your medical provider has prescribed a CPAP machine for your use, you may be confused about what parts need replacement and the frequency in which they need to be replaced. Maintaining your CPAP machine is vital to the success of your treatment, and you should replace your CPAP supplies on a regular schedule. Supply replacement can be broken into three intervals: items that need to be replaced once a month, every three months, and every six months.
Once a month, you should replace the nasal pillow and nasal cushion as well as the white disposable filters; the black reusable filters may be rinsed weekly and reused. If you begin sneezing, have a runny nose, or have above-average pollen or dust in your area check the filters in case they need more frequent replacement. Your face mask interface should be replaced now, too.
Every three months you will need to replace your CPAP mask, full face mask, or oral CPAP mask. This is important, as the seal on the mask must work properly in order for your treatment to be effective and the mask will not be as comfortable if it is too worn. The tubing must also be replaced at this point, and you should check the head gear for wear.
At the six month point, you should replace the head gear, chin strap, and the humidifier chambers. If you use the black foam reusable filters that are rinsed weekly they will also need to go on your six month replacement list of CPAP supplies.
Although this replacement schedule should cover all of your CPAP machine maintenance, it’s important to note that the instructions on your specific machine may differ and you should always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines when ordering CPAP supplies. If your medical provider gives you a different schedule, that should be followed first. It’s also important to remember that the replacement timeline of CPAP supplies is a guideline and is not set in stone. If you notice any wear on a piece of your equipment, don’t wait until the scheduled replacement time to get a new piece.