Find answers to the most common questions about CPAP therapy, mask use, humidification, travel, and equipment care. Can't find your answer? Contact our team — we're here to help.
Humidification
Why does water usage vary each night?
Breathing through the mouth or mouth leaks during sleep can increase humidifier water use. Other factors include room temperature and humidification level settings. This is normal and does not indicate a problem with your device.
Why is my CPAP tubing filled with condensation (“rainout”)?
Rainout happens when warm, humidified air meets tubing that is cooler than room temperature — the water vapor condenses into droplets. Solutions: lower the humidification level, raise the room temperature, use ClimateLine Air Heated Tubing, or cover the tubing with an insulating wrap.
What are the overall benefits of humidification?
Up to 40% of PAP users experience a stuffy, dry nose. A heated humidifier adds moisture and warmth to the therapy air — reducing those symptoms and improving comfort and long-term therapy consistency.
Can the CPAP be placed above the humidifier?
The CPAP should always sit at the same level as or higher than the humidifier — never below it. This prevents water from entering the machine if the tubing isn't attached correctly.
Does humidification wear out masks and tubing faster?
No. CPAP tubing is designed to withstand temperatures far higher than a humidifier produces. Use humidification comfortably without worrying about shortening the life of your accessories.
How often should the water chamber be cleaned?
Wash the chamber daily with warm water and mild detergent. For mineral deposits, soak it in a vinegar-water solution (1:10) for 10 minutes once a week. Always dry it completely before reuse.
Can I use tap water?
Distilled water is best as it minimizes mineral buildup. Tap water may be used occasionally, but avoid products with bleach, alcohol, chlorine, or ammonia.
Should the humidifier be used year-round?
Use it whenever you experience a dry or stuffy nose. Many users find humidification helpful year-round, especially in areas with air conditioning or central heating.
Traveling with CPAP
Can I use my ResMed CPAP abroad?
Yes. All ResMed devices automatically adjust to 100–240V, 50–60Hz worldwide. You only need a plug adapter for your destination country.
Can a CPAP be carried on a flight?
Yes — a CPAP is classified as medical equipment and is generally allowed as an additional carry-on. Confirm the policy with your airline before booking. Bring a doctor's letter stating you use medical equipment. Do not use the humidifier during the flight.
Do airport X-ray scanners damage a CPAP?
No. Standard X-ray scanners do not damage a CPAP or its data. Still, bring medical documentation to ease security screening.
Can a CPAP be used while camping?
Yes, with a suitable inverter or DC converter. Without a humidifier: a 150W+ modified-sine inverter is enough. With a humidifier: you need a 200W+ pure-sine inverter. Use a deep-cycle marine battery for longer runtime.
Should I bring my CPAP when hospitalized?
Highly recommended. Tell your surgeon and anesthesiologist that you use a CPAP and have a sleep apnea diagnosis. Using CPAP therapy before and after surgery can improve recovery outcomes.
CPAP Masks
When and how often should I replace the mask cushion?
Replace the cushion every 3–6 months, or sooner if the seal weakens. Wash your face before bed and clean the mask after each use with warm water and mild detergent — this significantly extends cushion life.
My mask is too tight to get a good seal — is it the wrong size?
It's most likely an incorrect size. Avoid over-tightening the headgear — that actually breaks the seal. Try a different cushion size or consult the Resindo Medika team for a proper fitting.
Who is a full face mask best suited for?
A full face mask is ideal for people who breathe through the mouth during sleep, or those with mouth leaks that reduce therapy effectiveness. If you often wake with a dry mouth or throat, a full face mask may be the solution.
If the power goes out, can I still breathe with a full face mask?
Yes. All ResMed full face masks have an anti-asphyxia valve that opens automatically if the PAP device loses power — letting you breathe normally.
Are ResMed masks compatible with other CPAP brands?
Generally yes, since tubing connector sizes are standardized. However, confirm with your non-ResMed CPAP manufacturer first, as some advanced therapy modes may require specific mask compatibility.
Skin Irritation
What should I do if the mask causes skin irritation?
Skin irritation is usually caused by headgear that's too tight, a worn-out mask, or a dirty mask. Steps: loosen the headgear as much as possible while keeping the seal; check the cushion and replace it if worn; wash the mask daily; cleanse your face with a pH-neutral cleanser before bed; avoid facial lotion where the mask contacts your skin.
APAP (Auto-Adjusting CPAP)
What are the advantages of ResMed AutoSet devices?
AutoSet devices adjust pressure with every breath based on your airway needs that night — no fixed pressure that's too high or too low. The result: more comfortable, more effective therapy, with the patient receiving the minimum pressure needed for optimal treatment.
How does AutoSet know when to adjust pressure?
The device responds to early signs of obstruction — flow limitation, snoring, and apnea. Pressure is raised pre-emptively when flow limitation is detected before an apnea occurs, and lowered again once the airway opens.
How does AutoSet work with hypopnea?
AutoSet responds to hypopnea involving flow limitation or snoring — both signs of physical obstruction. Central hypopnea (caused by the nervous system) does not trigger a pressure increase.
Material Safety
Does ResMed CPAP equipment contain Bisphenol A (BPA)?
Some ResMed plastic components use polycarbonate containing BPA — the same material used in thousands of consumer products. ResMed affirms its confidence in product safety for the intended use, and all products are approved by regulatory authorities in every country where they are sold.