When to Replace CPAP Equipment: Full Schedule & Signs to Watch For

Replacing your CPAP machine filters on time helps ensure you're breathing clean air and protects your machine from dust and allergens. 

How often you’ll need to replace these machine parts depends on the type of filter you use, your machine, and possibly even the air quality in your environment. 

Disposable filters capture fine particles while reusable filters act as a first line of defense. These filters usually don’t need to be thrown away after a set amount of time, which can range anywhere from 2-4 weeks with some DreamStation disposable filters to 6 months for other machines. 

Reusable filters trap particles like dust and debris before they reach your machine. These filters can be removed, washed, and reinserted, making them a more cost-effective option over time. Depending on your environment and maintenance routine, reusable filters can last anywhere from 1 to 6 months. 

To learn more about changing out your filter, check out our article on replacing your CPAP filter.

Cushions and nasal pillows are key to maintaining a comfortable, leak-free seal. Over time, oils from your skin and nightly wear will break down the material, leading to discomfort and poor therapy performance.

All cushions lose effectiveness over time, but each material type has its own expected lifespan.

The frame of your CPAP mask supports the cushion and holds your entire mask in place. As frames wear out, they can lose structure and flexibility, leading to mask leaks and poor alignment.

Keep in mind that when you’re buying a replacement frame, it may be difficult to find a frame by itself. Instead, you may need to order a mask kit, also known as a mask assembly kit , which usually includes everything you need to refresh your mask except for headgear.

You’ll need to replace your CPAP headgear every 6–9 months, or sooner if it starts to wear out. If your headgear feels loose or less supportive, it's time for a replacement, even if it’s been less than 6 months. 

Elastic can lose tension over time, leading to mask leaks and reduced therapy performance. So, if you are using a CPAP mask with an elastic headband, such as the AirFit P10 headgear, you may find yourself replacing your head strap more often, rather than less. 

In fact, some people report best results after replacing their elastic head strap every 3-6 months, rather than waiting a full 9.

As for the traditional 4-point headgear with Velcro tabs and mask clips, Velcro can lose its grip after months of wear, making it harder to get a secure fit that lasts. 

Some manufacturers, such as Resmed’s masks, use a specific type of Velcro to extend their lifespan, but still, it’s better to keep your headgear fresh, rather than waiting until the wear and tear begins to affect your therapy.

Your CPAP hose is responsible for delivering pressurized air from the machine to your mask. Cracks, buildup, and air leaks are common over time, especially in heated tubing that has been exposed to moisture.

Keep in mind this category doesn’t just cover the hose that connects your CPAP machine to your CPAP mask, but other types of tubing that your CPAP air moves through, including hollow frame headgear and short tubes that connect your CPAP hose to your mask frame.

Your water chamber adds essential moisture to the air you breathe, helping reduce dryness and irritation. Over time, minerals from the water in your  CPAP humidifier can build up, and gaskets may degrade.

CPAP machines are durable, but like any device, they eventually wear out. Replacing your machine ensures consistent therapy pressure, quieter nights, and access to modern comfort features. 

Keep in mind that your travel CPAP machines can be used daily, but if you do this, you will need to replace them sooner than your standard machine. If you use it only for traveling, you can get much longer out of it. 

Technically, your entire CPAP mask should be replaced once a year. However, this refers to the individual mask parts specifically, so replacing your entire mask may seem unnecessary if you keep up with our recommended replacement schedule.

If you've been following the recommended replacement schedule for your mask's individual parts—such as cushions, headgear, and frames—there's typically no need to buy a completely new mask each year. Your mask has effectively been refreshed part by part.

Unfortunately, not everyone replaces their mask parts regularly, and some manufacturers don’t offer individual replacement pieces. 

If you’ve used the same mask for a full year without changing out the cushions, straps, or frame, it’s time to consider a full replacement. You may not notice how much performance has declined—until you experience the comfort and seal of a fresh mask.

For more information, read about how often you should change your CPAP mask.

Your health insurance company should cover your CPAP replacement parts, although the replacement schedule may differ from plan to plan. It’s best to check with your specific insurance provider for your plan's policies.

Medicare has a very generous replacement schedule, allowing you to receive one totally new CPAP mask of your choice every 3 months. The purpose of this policy is to encourage struggling CPAP users to try new masks without taking on the financial burden of paying out of pocket. 

You will need to meet your deductible and pay a copay (usually 20-30% of the total costs) before CPAP equipment can be covered by your insurance.

Learn more about paying for CPAP with insurance versus out-of-pocket.