CPAP Quick Fixes: 10 Problems You Can Solve Tonight
It's 10 PM. Something's wrong with your CPAP. You can't call anyone.
Here are quick fixes you can try right now.
1. Mask Leaking
Try:
- Loosen headgear slightly (yes, loosen)
- Reposition mask on face
- Check cushion is seated correctly
- Wipe face with towel (oils interfere)
If still leaking: Note for tomorrow, sleep as best you can
2. Dry Mouth
Try:
- Turn up humidity setting
- Check water level in humidifier
- Use saline spray before bed
- Keep water at bedside
3. Water in Tubing
Try:
- Empty water from tubing
- Route tubing under covers
- Lower humidity setting
- Make sure tubing runs downhill to machine
4. Mask Uncomfortable
Try:
- Loosen headgear
- Adjust how mask sits on face
- Check cushion for wear
- Different sleeping position
5. Can't Fall Asleep with CPAP
Try:
- Use ramp feature (starts at lower pressure)
- Practice relaxation breathing
- Put mask on earlier (while reading or relaxing)
- Don't lie there staring at ceiling, get up briefly
6. Waking Up Without Mask
Try:
- Tighten headgear slightly
- Check if leak is waking you
- Make sure comfortable before sleeping
- Consider full face if using nasal
7. Nose Congested
Try:
- Increase humidity
- Saline spray before bed
- If severe, consider allergy medicine
- Full face mask if nasal unusable
8. Noise from Machine
Try:
- Check tubing connections
- Look for water in tubing
- Inspect filter
- Move machine to different surface
9. Red Marks on Face
Try:
- Loosen headgear
- Reposition mask
- Check cushion isn't folded
- Make sure correct size
10. Machine Showing Error
Try:
- Turn off, unplug for 30 seconds
- Plug back in, turn on
- Check all connections
- Note error code for tomorrow
When to Stop and Call
Call tomorrow if:
- Quick fix didn't work
- Error code persists
- Consistent problem night after night
- You need equipment
Call now (urgent) if:
- Machine sparking or burning smell
- You feel very unwell
- Breathing difficulty (unrelated to mask)
Prevention Checklist
Every night:
- [ ] Fill humidifier
- [ ] Check mask cushion
- [ ] Make sure tubing secure
- [ ] Position tubing away from feet
Weekly:
- [ ] Clean mask cushion
- [ ] Clean humidifier chamber
- [ ] Check tubing for damage
Monthly:
- [ ] Replace filters
- [ ] Inspect headgear
Still stuck? Log into Drift and send us a message. We'll help tomorrow. [Log in →](/patient/login)