CPAP Accessories Need to be Replaced Fairly Often.
Unfortunately, there’s no way to know exactly how long a given item will last, but the following list is based on general advice of several manufacturers of CPAP equipment. Medicare and private insurance companies may cover replacement more often, or less often, depending on their policies. When in doubt, call them and ask.
Estimated Replacement times for CPAP Accessories
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Full Face Mask or Nasal Mask and Cushions
Respironics CPAP Mask
The CPAP mask itself, which is made of hard plastic parts, should last at least a year, although it is sometimes less expensive to replace an entire unit, including the mask, tubing and cushions, rather than replacing the individual parts separately.
The mask includes a soft cushion made from silicone, which helps to make the mask more comfortable to wear. It also acts as a seal to prevent air leakage around the mask. The cushion must be replaced when it can no longer seal the mask against your face. Most manufacturers say their cushions should last for 3 to 6 months. The medical supply company that sells your CPAP accessories should give you suggestions about how to store and clean the cushion to make it last as long as possible.
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CPAP Headgear and Chinstraps
CPAP headgear and chinstraps help keep the mask in place while you sleep. Because they are made from flexible material, they can eventually stretch out of shape or fray around the closures. Cleaning the headgear and chinstraps regularly will help them last longer. Most manufacturers say you should expect these accessories to last from three to six months, although the chin straps may wear out more quickly.
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CPAP Tubing
The mask is attached to the CPAP machine with plastic tubing, which should last as long as the machine itself. Since bacteria can build up inside the tube, especially when a humidifier is used, you will want to wash the tube regularly to prevent respiratory infections. Unfortunately, some pets find the tubes irresistible, and pet owners may need to replace their tubes more often. This may be true for other CPAP accessories, too, because all the parts smell like the pet’s owner, and they’re almost always made with chewable plastic.
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Filters
Disposable filters need to be replaced when they become dusty or dirty, usually within 2 or 3 months. Non-disposable filters made out of foam can be washed, and will last until the foam itself begins to fall apart. Foam filters usually last between 6 to 12 months. You should look at your filter regularly to make sure it’s still working properly, and replace it whenever it’s needed.
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CPAP Machine and Heated Humidifiers
If you use a heated humidifier along with your CPAP machine, both pieces of equipment should last at least five years. The parts of the humidifier that usually break first are the heating elements and heat settings. Some manufactures suggest that you arrange for a backup CPAP machine and humidifier two years after purchase, just in case.
The humidifier may be an internal part of your CPAP machine, so be sure to ask if this part can be repaired if it fails before the rest of the unit.
With the exception of the humidifier, all other CPAP accessories can usually be purchased in sets, which will be less expensive than replacing each part individually, even though they don’t all wear out at the same time.
