CPAP Tubing

CPAP tubing should be replaced every 3 to 6 months under normal use. Over time, tubing can develop micro-cracks, become stiff or discoloured, and harbour moisture or residue that is difficult to remove even with regular cleaning.

Signs that your tubing needs replacing include visible discolouration, a persistent musty odour, cracks or splits along the length, or a reduction in therapy pressure caused by small undetected leaks.

Standard 22mm tubing is compatible with most CPAP, APAP and BiPAP machines. If your machine uses heated tubing such as the ResMed ClimateLineAir or Philips HeatedTube, ensure you purchase the correct heated tube for your specific model.

Water chambers should be replaced every 6 to 12 months. Over time, the plastic can become cloudy, develop mineral deposits from water, or show fine scratches that trap bacteria and are impossible to clean effectively.

Always use distilled or sterile water in your humidifier chamber. Tap water contains minerals that accelerate scaling and deposit build-up, shortening the life of the chamber and potentially harming the heating plate.

If you notice white or grey deposits inside the chamber, persistent cloudiness, or cracks in the plastic, replace the chamber immediately rather than continuing to use it.

Distilled water is the only recommended type for use in CPAP humidifier chambers. Distilled water has had its mineral content removed, which prevents limescale build-up on the heating plate and inside the chamber.

Tap water, even in soft water areas, contains dissolved minerals that will gradually coat the heating element and chamber walls, reducing humidifier efficiency and shortening the component's life.

Bottled mineral water should also be avoided as it contains minerals by definition. In an emergency while travelling, cooled boiled water is an acceptable short-term substitute, but distilled water should be resumed as soon as possible.

Most CPAP machines use two types of filter:

Disposable fine filters should be replaced every 2 to 4 weeks. These thin white filters capture dust, pollen and fine particulates. They cannot be washed and must be discarded when discoloured.

Reusable foam filters should be rinsed with water weekly, allowed to dry completely, and replaced every 3 to 6 months or when they show signs of wear, tearing or persistent discolouration.

If you live in a dusty environment, have pets, or suffer from allergies, replace filters more frequently. A clogged filter restricts airflow, causes the machine to work harder and can reduce therapy effectiveness.

Always check your specific machine's user manual for the exact filter types and replacement schedule recommended by the manufacturer.

Standard tubing is unheated and works with all CPAP machines. It is the most widely used type and is suitable for most patients. The main limitation is that moisture from the humidifier can condense inside the tube if there is a temperature difference between the machine and the room, a phenomenon known as rainout.

Heated tubing contains a fine heating element that warms the air as it travels from the machine to the mask, preventing condensation and rainout. It significantly improves comfort for patients who experience moisture in the tube or who use high humidification settings.

Heated tubes are proprietary and model-specific. The ResMed ClimateLineAir, Philips HeatedTube and Fisher & Paykel ThermoSmart tube are not interchangeable. Ensure you purchase the heated tube designed for your specific machine model.

Daily: empty any remaining water from the chamber each morning and leave it open to air dry. Do not leave standing water in the chamber between uses.

Weekly: disassemble the water chamber and wash it in warm water with a small amount of mild, fragrance-free dish soap. Rinse thoroughly and allow to air dry completely before refilling.

For tubing, hang it vertically after washing to allow water to drain and dry from the inside. A tube cleaning brush is useful for removing any residue from the inner surface.

Avoid the dishwasher, bleach, alcohol-based cleaners or ozone cleaning devices for water chambers and tubing, as these can damage seals, degrade plastic and leave harmful residues.

Standard 22mm tubing is universal and compatible with virtually all CPAP, APAP and BiPAP machines regardless of manufacturer. Standard filters with the same dimensions are also broadly interchangeable, though it is always best to use the manufacturer's recommended filter for your specific model.

Water chambers are not interchangeable between brands or models. Each humidifier tub is designed to clip, slide or lock into a specific machine housing. Always check the model compatibility before ordering a replacement chamber.

Heated tubing is brand and model specific and cannot be used across different manufacturers. If you are uncertain about compatibility, contact our team and we will confirm the correct part for your machine.

A complete CPAP setup requires the following essential accessories:

CPAP tubing: connects your machine to your mask. Standard 22mm tubing is supplied with most machines, but a spare is recommended.

Water chamber: if your machine has an integrated humidifier, a water chamber will either be included or available separately. Fill it with distilled water before each use.

Filters: ensure your machine has a clean filter installed before first use. Check whether your model uses disposable, reusable or both types.

Mask: select the appropriate mask type and size for your breathing pattern and facial anatomy.

Optional but recommended accessories include a CPAP travel bag, a DC power cable for travel, mask wipes for daily cleaning and a tube cleaning brush for weekly maintenance.

Yes. CPAP accessories including tubing, water chambers, filters and cleaning supplies are eligible for VAT Relief under Group 12 of Schedule 8 of the Value Added Tax Act 1994, provided they are purchased by an individual with a qualifying chronic illness or disability for personal use.

To claim VAT Relief, tick the declaration at checkout confirming your eligibility. This reduces the purchase price by 20%. No GP letter or formal prescription is required, but the declaration must be truthful. Making a false declaration is a criminal offence under UK law.