If you have been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea, you are probably prescribed continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) to treat the condition. The CPAP machine will probably be your best friend in the many years to come and as such, cleaning it on a regular basis and properly is of crucial importance. When it comes to the cleaning process, there is one element of the device which people often neglect: the filters. Hence, let’s take a closer look at how and how often you should change the filters on your CPAP machine and keep yourself healthy.

A CPAP Filter: An Introduction

A CPAP machine is designed to use the air in the room, filter it and pressure it to deliver air so it keeps your airways from collapsing while you’re sleeping. However, besides taking in room air, the machine also sucks up debris from the environment, including allergens such as pet dander, dust, and smoke. Hence, the task of the filter is to clean these potential allergens from the air which is pressurized into the air which enters your lungs.

The CPAP filters are made of disposable materials, such as foam, paper, or woven synthetic material. Where the filters are located depends on the make and model of your CPAP machine. Hence, if you find it hard to locate the CPAP filters, you should definitely contact your medical equipment provider. So, the filters can be located at the left side under a plastic flap or on the left side in a removable piece.

How Often You Should Change Filters?

Changing the CPAP filters on a regular basis is very important. Thus, if the filters become filthy, you are risking of inhaling air with potential allergens. The filters used by CPAP machines are very affordable and you’ll probably spend about $2 per month for changing them.

So, it is recommended that the filters on the CPAP machine are cleaned or changed at least once a month. However, there are some insurance which pay for new filters every two weeks. You only need to change the disposable filters, while the longer-term filter should be cleaned on a monthly basis. Disposable filters are a must if you haveallergies or sinus issues. 

Nevertheless, if you live in a dirtier environment, you might want to consider a more frequent change of the filters. Always check the filters and how dirty they are to determine when to replace them. Even if the filter seems very clean, make sure you keep replacing it once a month.

The model of your CPAP usually comes with instructions on how to change the filters. Finish by reassembling the filter’s housing as it was before.