Describe the concern
Note when the issue happens, whether it is new, and any changes in symptoms or equipment.
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01Houston Sleep Health
CPAP Resources.
Everyday Comfort.
Ongoing Support.
Practical help for your CPAP routine—from mask fit and humidity to equipment care and replacement supplies.
02CPAP therapy troubleshooting guide
Find the Issue.
Know Your Next Step.
Open a topic to see possible causes and practical next steps. Your device manual and care team’s instructions guide any adjustments.
Contact our teamWhat is a DME supplier?
Your durable medical equipment provider helps with masks, supplies, fitting, and equipment service.
Air pressure feels too high or too low
Possible causes
Pressure needs, mask leaks, or comfort settings may need review.
What to do
Contact Houston Sleep Health to review your prescribed settings and treatment data. Do not change clinical pressure settings yourself.
Air from the machine feels too hot
Possible causes
Humidifier or heated-tube settings, a warm room, covered tubing, or a dirty filter may contribute.
What to do
Check user-adjustable temperature settings in your manual, keep the device unobstructed, and inspect the filter. Contact your supplier if the air remains unusually hot.
Air from the machine feels too cold
Possible causes
A cool room or unheated tubing may make the airflow uncomfortable.
What to do
Ask about compatible heated tubing and adjust permitted temperature settings according to your manual. Keep the machine and its air intake uncovered.
Rainout or moisture inside the mask
Possible causes
Humidified air may cool and condense in the tubing; the water chamber may also be overfilled.
What to do
Keep water below the maximum line. Ask your supplier about compatible heated tubing, a suitable hose cover, and humidity or temperature adjustments.
Dry mouth or nose
Possible causes
Airflow, insufficient humidification, or leaks may contribute to dryness.
What to do
Review the humidifier’s user settings and check for leaks. Ask your team about compatible heated tubing and persistent dryness.
Dry mouth while using a nasal mask
Possible causes
Air may escape through your mouth during sleep.
What to do
Ask your equipment supplier to assess mouth leak and mask fit. A different mask style, including a full-face mask, may be appropriate.
Eye irritation
Possible causes
Air leaking upward from the mask may irritate your eyes.
What to do
Refit the mask and adjust headgear gently. Avoid overtightening. Seek advice if irritation continues or you develop eye pain or vision changes.
Mouth opens during sleep
Possible causes
Mouth breathing or leaks can affect treatment comfort.
What to do
Discuss mask options with your supplier. A chinstrap may suit selected patients, but should be assessed by your team rather than used as a universal solution.
Air leaks around the mask
Possible causes
The cushion, mask size, or fit may be incorrect or worn.
What to do
Check fit while lying in your usual sleep position. Ask your DME supplier about refitting or replacing worn components.
Soreness on the forehead or bridge of the nose
Possible causes
An unsuitable mask size or tight headgear may put pressure on the skin.
What to do
Ease overly tight straps and arrange a fit review. Contact your care team for persistent sores or broken skin.
Snoring or daytime sleepiness returns
Possible causes
Leaks, changes in weight or health, or a need to reassess treatment may be contributing.
What to do
Schedule a review with Houston Sleep Health. Bring your device or treatment data as requested. Avoid driving when sleepy.
No pressure or airflow from the machine
Possible causes
A loose power connection, unpowered outlet, disconnected tubing, or equipment fault may be responsible.
What to do
Check the power and tubing connections using your manual. If airflow does not resume, contact your supplier promptly; do not attempt internal repairs.
03CPAP equipment care
Clean Equipment.
A Consistent Routine.
Use your specific manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning, water type, and drying. Some materials, including certain foam cushions, must not be washed like silicone parts.
| Component | Routine | Care guidance |
|---|---|---|
| Mask cushion or nasal pillows | Daily, if washable | Wash your face before use. Clean compatible washable parts as directed, rinse, and air-dry. Follow separate instructions for foam cushions. |
| Humidifier chamber | Daily | Empty remaining water, clean or wipe as directed, and let dry. Refill with the water type specified by your device; do not exceed the maximum line. |
| Tubing | Usually weekly | Clean compatible tubing with the recommended mild cleaner and water. Rinse and allow it to dry fully. |
| Humidifier chamber | Weekly care | Follow the manufacturer’s cleaning or descaling method. Use a vinegar solution only if allowed, at the dilution specified for your chamber. |
| Headgear and mask frame | Usually weekly | Hand-clean as directed and air-dry. Avoid heat that could damage the material. |
| Machine exterior | Usually weekly | Unplug before cleaning and wipe as instructed. Never immerse the machine. |
| Disposable filter | Inspect regularly | Do not wash a disposable filter. Replace according to your model’s instructions or sooner if dirty or damaged. |
04CPAP resupply
Check the Fit.
Plan for Replacement.
Replacement needs depend on wear, your product instructions, and insurance coverage. The intervals below are planning examples—not a promise of eligibility or automatic replacement.
| Supply | Common planning interval | What to confirm |
|---|---|---|
| Mask frame or mask system | About 3 months | Ask which components are included; headgear is often billed separately. |
| Full-face cushion | About 1 month | Confirm material-specific replacement instructions and coverage. |
| Nasal cushion or nasal pillows | About 1 month | Some plans allow more frequent replacement; verify your allowance. |
| Headgear and chinstrap | About 6 months | Replace when fit or elasticity deteriorates, following supplier advice. |
| Tubing | About 3 months | Check for holes, loose connections, or damage. |
| Disposable filters | Often monthly | Your device may specify a different interval. Confirm filter type. |
| Water chamber | About 6 months | Check for cracks, discoloration, or deposits and verify benefits. |
05Support that fits your routine
Notice. Check.
Get the Right Help.
You do not have to work through persistent discomfort alone. Share what is happening so your team can help identify the next step.
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01
ONGOING SUPPORT / 01 -
02
ONGOING SUPPORT / 02 Review the basics
Check fit, connections, water level, and user settings using your device manual. Keep clinical pressure changes with your prescriber.
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03
ONGOING SUPPORT / 03 Arrange focused support
Contact your supplier for equipment or mask concerns and your sleep team for symptoms or treatment review.
06Your questions, answered
Everyday CPAP.
Practical Answers.
Keep your treatment routine informed and supported.
Can I change my prescribed pressure myself?
Ask your sleep team to review the pressure and treatment data. Patient comfort settings differ from clinical pressure settings; follow the instructions for your prescribed device.
Should I tighten my mask to stop every leak?
Overtightening may worsen discomfort and the seal. Ask for a fitting review if gentle adjustments do not resolve leaks.
Do all CPAP parts use the same cleaning method?
No. Materials and device models differ. Follow each product’s instructions rather than applying one cleaning solution or schedule to every part.
Does insurance automatically cover replacements on this schedule?
No. Coverage, quantities, documentation, and replacement eligibility vary. Confirm benefits with your supplier and insurer before ordering.
07Continue exploring
Resources for
Your Treatment Journey.
CPAP therapy
Understand your treatment and ongoing care.
Learn moreEquipment & supplies
Explore masks, machines, and equipment support.
Learn moreOffice FAQ
Get practical answers about visits and follow-up.
Learn moreFor ResMed equipment: cleaning guidance · product manuals. Use your own manufacturer’s instructions if you have a different brand.
08Houston Sleep Health
Make Your CPAP Routine
More Comfortable.
Reach out for help with treatment comfort, recurring symptoms, or the right next step for equipment support.
