Troubleshooting your PAP Device
Sep 25, 2023
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Have an issue or question about a device? Take a look at these common problems and solutions.
While many issues have to do with familarizing yourself with your machine and routine, sometimes you need more information specific to that device. If you need more help, we invite you to visit ourmachine support and information page.
If your mask is leaking around the cushions/pillows, you may not have your mask on properly or you may need to make some minor adjustments.
- Adjust mask while in the sleeping position. Lie down and adjust your headgear straps. Do not overtighten because this could make the mask uncomfortable and cause air leakage. You should be able to fit one finger under the straps. You can run the mask fit feature on your PAP device to help correct the leakage
- Try resetting the mask by pulling it away from your face and gently placing it back onto your face
Have you been cleaning your cushions/pillows daily? Have you been replacing your supplies as recommended? Worn out or oily masks can create leaks. Click here to find our Cleaning Schedule
This may be attributed to a low humidity level, excessively high tube temperature, or a mask leak.
- Adjust mask while in the sleeping position. Lie down and adjust your headgear straps. Do not overtighten because this could make the mask uncomfortable and cause air leakage. You should be able to fit one finger under the straps. You can run the mask fit feature on your PAP device to help correct the leakage
- You may need to increase your humidity on your PAP device. Be sure to increase in small increments
- You may need to decrease your tube temperature. Be sure to decrease in small increments
- In cold weather environments you may use a room humidifier to reduce dryness
- You may need a chinstrap if you are using a nasal or pillow mask
For directions on how to increase your humidity or decrease your tube temperature, please refer to your machine’s user manual.
This may occur when either the humidity setting on your machine is set too high or there is residual water inside the PAP tubing after cleaning.
- You may need to decrease your humidity level on your PAP device. Be sure to decrease in small increments
- You may have over filled your humidifier chamber. Do not fill above the max line
- Place your machine approximately level with the height of your bed. Make sure your machine is not above your head when lying down
- Hang PAP tubing during the day to dry
- Tubing/hose covers can be purchased from AdaptHealth Marketplace
- The temperature of the heated hose should be warmer than room air to avoid condensation
Directions on how to decrease your humidity can be found in your machine’s user manual.
- Decrease or turn off your ramp time feature on your PAP device
- If you are having issues with not getting enough air while exhaling, reduce your EPR/Flex/Reslex/IPR pressure relief
Directions on how to change your EPR/Flex/Reslex/IPR can be found in your machine’s user manual.
- Use the Ramp feature or your PAP device. You can increase the time you would like the machine to stay at a lower pressure before it starts therapy
- Anytime you get up and walk away from your machine, shut your machine off. Once you get back in bed, restart your therapy and your machine should start in Ramp mode if enabled
- Check for leaks with your PAP mask, as this can cause your air intake to feel stronger. You can check for leaks by using the Mask Fit feature on your PAP device
- If you are having too much difficulty exhaling, increase EPR/Flex/Reslex/IPR pressure relief
Directions on how to change your EPR/Flex/Reslex/IPR can be found your machine’s user manual.
- Verify that the light switch controlling your outlet is in the “on” position
- Confirm whether the power strip is switched on when the device is plugged into it
- Connect the PAP machine to an alternative outlet to test its functionality
- Ensure the plug is securely inserted into the rear of the machine
- Verify that both segments of the power cord are firmly connected, with the wall plug securely inserted into the black box
- Check the black box on the power cord for the green light indicator
- Inspect the power cord for any signs of damage or wear
- Be sure not to plug the CPAP power cord into an overloaded extension cord or power strip with and excess of other cords, as this can potentially damage the CPAP power cord