HHZ Respiratory Review

CPAP cleaning and troubleshooting (NZ guide)

2 min read By HHZ Editorial Next review

Health NZ Canterbury’s CPAP guidance: wash the mask seal daily in warm soapy water, rinse and refill the humidifier daily, wash the chamber weekly with a 1:4 white vinegar soak, rinse the hose weekly and check the filter monthly. Turn humidity down for water in the tube, up for a dry nose or mouth, and refit the mask for leaks.

This guide is written from Health NZ’s long-term CPAP therapy in Canterbury Waitaha page, read on 14 October 2026. Follow your own sleep service’s and manufacturer’s instructions if they differ.

Cleaning schedule

WhenPartWhat to do
DailyMask sealWash in warm soapy water; dishwashing detergent is best
DailyWater chamberRemove from the machine, rinse and refill
WeeklyWater chamberWash in warm soapy water, rinse, dry; soak 1 hour in 1 part white vinegar to 4 parts warm water
WeeklyHoseRinse and leave to dry
WeeklyHeadgearMachine-wash in a wash bag or pillowcase
MonthlyFilterCheck it and brush off dust

Avoid very hot water, harsh chemicals and sunlight, which damage seals and plastic. Keep the mask away from children and pets. Only your sleep service should change the pressure.

Troubleshooting

ProblemWhat Health NZ suggests
Water building up in the tube or maskTurn humidity down one setting at a time
Dry nose or mouthTurn humidity up one setting at a time, or try a full face mask
Machine blowing cold airWarm the room
Mask leaking around the sealRefit and adjust the straps; practise in front of a mirror; clean the mask
Noisy hoseAir is probably escaping; check for holes and connections
Sore eyesReposition the mask to stop air leaking towards your eyes
Pressure too high to fall asleepUse the ramp feature if your machine has one
Still snoring with CPAPThe pressure may need changing; contact your sleep service
Machine not workingCheck the wall switch and power cable, and that the filter is clean

Power cuts

If the power goes off while you are using CPAP, take the mask off and sleep without it; the vents let you breathe room air. Restart CPAP when power returns. Don’t drive or operate heavy machinery if you are sleepy. If you rely on powered equipment, see medically dependent consumers.

Replacement masks cost $228–$300 in New Zealand; see CPAP masks in New Zealand.

Frequently asked questions

How do I clean my CPAP water chamber?
Rinse and refill it daily. Weekly, wash it in warm soapy water and soak it for an hour in 1 part white vinegar to 4 parts warm water to remove mineral deposits.
Why is water collecting in my CPAP tube?
Health NZ suggests reducing the humidity one setting at a time.
What if I still snore with CPAP?
Your pressure may need changing. Contact your sleep service, or USL Medical if you have been discharged in Canterbury.

CPAP machine prices in New Zealand (2026)

Live NZD prices for CPAP machines at New Zealand retailers: ResMed AirSense 11 and 10, AirMini, F&P SleepStyle, Yuwell and the AirCurve 11 VAuto, plus ResMed’s $35 trial.

Funded CPAP in New Zealand: how it works

How publicly funded CPAP works in New Zealand, using Health NZ Canterbury as the example: the trial, keeping the machine, the yearly mask, returning it if unused, and costs.

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Air New Zealand rules for CPAP and oxygen: MEDA clearance, 48- and 72-hour notice, the $150 oxygen bottle fee, approved POCs, in-seat and medical power, and NZ plugs.

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