Most CPAP supplies follow a regular replacement cycle to maintain hygiene and therapy performance. Mask cushions or nasal pillows are typically replaced every 1–2 months, filters every 30 days, tubing every 3–6 months, and headgear every 6 months. Full mask systems and humidifier chambers usually last 6–12 months depending on wear, usage, and cleaning habits.
Yes, Medicare Part B covers CPAP supplies for obstructive sleep apnea when therapy is medically prescribed and compliance requirements are met. Coverage includes masks, tubing, filters, headgear, and humidifier chambers, following a defined replacement schedule. Patients are usually responsible for 20% coinsurance unless they have secondary coverage or a Medicare Advantage plan.
Medicare continues to cover CPAP supplies as long as the therapy remains medically necessary and usage compliance is documented. Coverage starts with a 13-month capped rental period for the machine, after which ownership transfers, while replacement supplies continue to be covered based on the official Medicare replacement schedule.
CPAP supplies are available through accredited sleep therapy providers, medical equipment stores, and specialized online retailers that ship nationwide. Many suppliers offer direct compatibility filters to search by machine model, such as ResMed AirSense or AirFit series, ensuring correct fit for masks, filters, tubing, and replacement parts.
Generic filters can be used if they match the size and filtration standards of the original model, but poor-quality filters may affect airflow and motor longevity. For optimal therapy performance and device protection, filters designed specifically for your CPAP model are usually the safest choice.
ResMed recommends replacing filters every 30 days, mask cushions every 1–2 months, headgear every 6 months, tubing every 3–6 months, and humidifier chambers every 6 months. Machines generally last around 5 years, depending on usage and maintenance.
Yes, most CPAP supplies qualify as eligible medical expenses for both FSA and HSA accounts. This includes masks, hoses, filters, replacement parts, and CPAP machines prescribed for sleep apnea treatment, allowing you to use pre-tax funds for essential therapy equipment.
For AirSense 11, disposable filters should be replaced every 2–4 weeks, mask cushions or pillows every 1–2 months, tubing every 3–6 months, and headgear every 6 months. Regular inspection helps ensure consistent airflow and effective therapy performance.
Many CPAP replacement supplies such as masks, tubing, headgear, and cushions can be purchased without a prescription. However, CPAP machines and certain therapeutic components usually require a valid sleep apnea diagnosis and prescription to comply with medical regulations and insurance requirements.
Signs that CPAP parts require early replacement include visible wear, loss of elasticity in headgear, reduced seal quality, frequent leaks, or changes in comfort. Any component that no longer maintains a stable fit or consistent pressure output should be replaced even if the standard schedule has not been reached.
Some CPAP parts are cross-compatible, but mixing components from different brands or models can affect seal performance and airflow efficiency. For optimal results, it's recommended to use parts designed specifically for your machine and mask model, such as those intended for ResMed AirSense or AirFit systems.
While unused CPAP supplies do not have strict expiration dates, materials like silicone cushions and headgear can degrade over time, especially if exposed to heat or moisture. Storing supplies in a cool, dry place helps preserve material integrity until needed.
