One of the most important steps in maintaining effective sleep apnea therapy is to replace those parts of your equipment that need to be replaced on a regular basis.  Most of the components of your sleep therapy equipment and supplies are designed to be disposable and not to be used past their recommended life span.

Below is our recommended time frame to replace specific parts of your sleep apnea equipment.

Component

Suggested Schedule

Advice
Disposable Filters Monthly
Device filters wear out or may become clogged and will no longer protect from dust, pet fur, or bacteria.
Non Disposable Filters Every 3 Months
Non disposable filters can be easily cleaned but have a lifetime period of 3 months before needing to be replaced.  Ensure your CPAP equipment is working at peak efficiency by regularly inspecting the filters.
Nasal Cushion and Pillows Every 3 Months
Mask cushions may deteriorate over time through regular use which can compromise fit.  Worn out cushions can lead to discomfort and less effective therapy.
Full Face Cushions Every 3 Months
Cushions breakdown and will eventually lose their seal.  Cleaning your mask regularly will increase the life of the cushion.
Headgear Every 6 Months
Headgear will become stretched and lose elasticity.  Over tightening can lead to discomfort which indicates the appropriate time to replace CPAP equipment.
Chinstraps Every 6 Months
Chinstraps over time will become stretched out and ineffective.  Over tightening can lead to discomfort and red marks around the face which indicates the appropriate time to replace CPAP equipment.
Tubing Every 6 Months
Chinstraps over time will become stretched out and ineffective.  Over tightening can lead to discomfort and red marks around the face which indicates the appropriate time to replace CPAP equipment.
Humidifier Water Chamber Every 6 Months
Humidifier water chambers may become discolored, cracked, or cloudy.  As the material deteriorates, cracks may trap bacteria from moisture.