This depends on where the leak is coming from. If your CPAP machine is leaking from anywhere other than around your mask, I would go ahead and say that no, it is not normal for it to be leaking this soon.

If it is leaking from around your mask area, there are a few culprits that could be at play.

  • Straps need adjusting
  • Foam or silicone mask pieces need replacing
  • Mask or equipment might need cleaning.

As you might guess, if you do not have your mask positioned precisely as it was the night before, you may need to readjust the straps that hold your mask snugly to your face. Regardless of the strap’s mechanisms (Velcro or plastic adjusters), you may need to cinch them a little tighter to get a better seal.

If you have tried tightening your mask already and are still experiencing leaks, you may need a replacement. Let’s take a moment to talk about what your masks manufacturer says about how often you should replace the whole thing or its individual parts. Some brands recommend replacing the nasal pillows or cushion parts every month due to breakdown from facial oil.  Additionally, depending on the type of tube and connection you have, you may find that you need to replace your hose. Be sure you are checking with your specific CPAP equipment’s replacement guidelines.

If you have checked with your equipment manufacturer and found that you are still well within the life of your face mask and hose, the next thing you should check is that your CPAP mask is very clean. When it comes to your CPAP machine, it’s best to know which parts need your attention. Because your CPAP mask touches your face and hair, it is one of the first places to get a real buildup of particles. Hair, skin cells, facial oil, saliva, and mucus can all cause your mask to become dirty. Accumulation of any of these substances can make your mask not suction to your face correctly, causing small leaks. One of the best ways to avoid this kind of buildup is by routinely cleaning your CPAP gear. There are many different ways to keep your equipment sanitized, but one of the easiest and most efficient cleaning tools you can own as a CPAP user is a CPAP machine sterilizer. There are a few different options on the market today that do a great job of keeping your machine clean.  Using a CPAP cleaner and some mask face wipes ensures that your mask will not leak from the buildup of gunk.

If you have considered all these options and none of them seem right or your CPAP machine is leaking from a location other than the mask or hose valve, I would recommend contacting your CPAP’s manufacturer. Let them know that you have checked the above things and cannot find what is causing the problem.  They will be able to talk you through some additional steps to correct the problem or work with you to get a replacement device issued right away.

Back to FAQs