CPAP Troubleshooting: Fix Common Sleep Apnea Machine Problems

When your CPAP machine, a device that delivers continuous air pressure to keep airways open during sleep for people with obstructive sleep apnea stops working right, sleep suffers—and so does your health. It’s not just about comfort. A poorly fitted mask, wrong pressure, or humidifier problems can make you quit treatment altogether. About 50% of people abandon CPAP therapy within the first year, often because they don’t know how to fix simple issues. You don’t need a technician for every problem. Most fixes are quick, cheap, and you can do them at home.

One of the biggest headaches is mask leaks, air escaping from the mask seal, reducing pressure and causing dry eyes or skin irritation. If you wake up with red marks, a dry throat, or your machine keeps alerting you about leaks, check the straps. Too tight? It digs in. Too loose? Air escapes. Try a different mask style—nasal pillows, full face, or nasal cradle—each suits different face shapes. Also, replace the cushion every 1–3 months. Silicone breaks down. Old cushions don’t seal, even if they look fine.

Humidity issues, dry nose, nasal congestion, or excessive condensation in the tubing (rainout) are next on the list. If your nose feels raw or you wake up with a stuffy head, your humidifier setting is likely too low. Turn it up gradually. But if water pools in your hose, especially in cold rooms, lower the humidity or use a heated tube. Many newer machines have auto-adjusting humidity or rainout prevention—check your manual. Don’t skip cleaning the water chamber daily. Mold and mineral buildup mess with airflow and can make you sick.

Noise? That’s usually the air filter. If it’s clogged with dust, the motor works harder and gets louder. Swap it every month, or more often if you have pets or live in a dusty area. Also, make sure the tubing isn’t kinked or pinched under your body. A bent tube creates turbulence and whistling sounds. And if your machine suddenly sounds like a jackhammer, it might be time for a service. Motors wear out after 3–5 years.

And don’t ignore the little things. A dirty mask can cause skin rashes. A misplaced chin strap can make your mouth open during sleep, ruining the pressure. Even the water you use matters—distilled water prevents mineral deposits. Most CPAP problems aren’t mechanical failures. They’re maintenance gaps.

Below, you’ll find real-world fixes from people who’ve been there. From adjusting pressure settings to choosing the right mask for side sleepers, these guides cut through the confusion. No fluff. Just what works.