ResMed machines are one of the most popular for CPAP therapy. But while using these CPAPs, the machine itself can begin to make noises that need to be fixed before using it again.
A ResMed CPAP produces noise because of a clogged filter, incorrect humidifier settings, or the tube temperature being too cold. The position of the CPAP, rainout, low air pressure or leaking air can also lead to a noisy ResMed unit.
This guide explains the 9 reasons why your ResMed CPAP machine could be making noise, how to determine which problem your unit is suffering from, and how to fix it.
9 Reasons why your Resmed CPAP machine is making noise
The most common cause of a noisy ResMed CPAP is from air leaking or rainout. If you already know this isn’t your problem then you can scroll past to start your troubleshooting.
1. Air leakage
A ResMed CPAP machine is most likely making noise(s) because of leaking air.
A point of contact or seal exists between the CPAP device and your face, and if it’s not correctly connected, leakage will occur. This is not a maybe, it’s guaranteed.
Air can also leak if the hose is not correctly attached at the mask or machine.
Diagnosis:
- Waking to dry eyes.
- If the water tub has become cracked or cloudy.
- Waking up with a dry or stuffy nose.
- A gurgling noise when you breathe in.
- Leaks.
- Holes, tears and cracks on air tubing.
- Bandings on the hose.
How to fix it:
- Make sure the hose is connected to your mask and machine properly.
- Run your hands along the entire CPAP hose to ensure no leaks.
- Straighten your CPAP hose before going to bed to ensure no kinks or bends could cause pressure to build up.
- Purchase a hose cover.
- Disconnect and reconnect the hose at both ends to see if you can re-establish the seal and if you can eliminate the whistling.
2. Cold tube temperature
While trying to sleep, many of us find it easier to breathe cooler air. However, when the temperature in the tube is too cold, the CPAP unit can become increasingly loud.
The noise actually occurs as a result of the temperature difference between the tube and room. Due to the temperature difference, moisture can condense inside the unheated tube.
This is more common in the early hours of the morning when the night is at its coolest.
For CPAP therapy to work correctly, the temperature and humidity inside the mask and tubes must match the temperature and humidity outside the mask and tubes.
Diagnosis:
- Mouth breathing.
- Waking up with a dry mouth.
- Coughing.
- Sneezing.
- Swelling.
- Headaches.
How to fix it:
- Using a heated humidifier.
- Adjust the temperatures of your room.
- Using an auto-setting ResMed CPAP.
- See if your model is compatible with heated tubing.
3. Position
A ResMed CPAP can make excessive noise because of poor positioning.
When your CPAP is directly next to your head on the nightstand, you probably won’t be able to sleep properly because of the noises it makes.
If your ResMed CPAP machine vibrates or rumbles, you can lessen the noise by placing it on a soft surface like a towel or foam pad, but make sure the vents aren’t obstructed and that it’s on a level surface.
Avoid setting your machine on the carpet if you don’t want it to block the vents.
CPAP hoses come in different lengths to allow you to put your machine in the most comfortable position. Consult your doctor before using one to ensure it’s right for you.
Diagnosis:
- Water collecting in the tube.
- Trouble sleeping.
How to fix it:
- Placing it on a soft surface like a towel or foam pad.
- Talk to your doctor to know where to place your CPAP for the best therapy.
- Consult your specific model’s user manual recommendations (these do vary slightly).
4. Clogged filter
A clogged filter is one of the most common causes of a loud ResMed CPAP machine. The filters in a CPAP capture dust, allergens, and debris to reduce the risk of inhaling particles or contaminants during use.
However, to perform at their best, you must change them regularly. Otherwise, they can become blocked, forcing your CPAP to work harder and louder to cycle air, which can result in the noises you’re experiencing.
Note: ResMed recommends that the filters should be replaced and not washed or reused.
Diagnosis of a clogged filter:
- If there is a layer of dust on it
- If the filter is dirt-clogged or has holes in it.
- Inspect the condition of the filter every month.
- Schedule regular maintenance or filter changing routine.
How to change the ResMed’s CPAP filter:
- Unplug the unit.
- Remove the air filter cover at the back.
- Remove the old filter and dispose of it.
- Place a new filter on the device with the blue-tinted side facing out.
- Replace the cover.
Note: To prevent water and dust from entering the device, make sure the air filter is in place at all times.
5. Humidity settings
One reason your ResMed machine is creating noise is that it is set on the wrong humidity settings. If you have a CPAP with a humidifier, your machine usually works a little harder by adding moisture to the cycle air, especially if it’s heated.
If the reservoir’s water level drops too low, you can hear odd noises. Incorrect humidifier settings will result in fluctuating humidity levels, which will produce a distinct noise.
The pressure on your CPAP machine must be set correctly to avoid this noises.
Diagnosis:
- Discomfort in the mouth, nose, and airways.
How to fix it:
- Check that the lid is firmly attached.
- Use distilled water in your CPAP humidifier to avoid a mineral build-up that makes a CPAP louder.
- Check the humidity settings and adjust to better match the humidity in the exterior air or in-line with your user manual
6. Air pressure
The noises coming from your ResMed CPAP machine can easily be caused by air pressure. The pressure should neither be very high nor excessively low.
Selecting the device’s AutoRamp setting can help if the air pressure feels too high. This will let it offer a low start pressure, which will make it easier for you to fall asleep.
Also, using its sleep onset detection feature, ResMed will gradually ramp up to the prescribed pressure as soon as it detects that you have drifted off to sleep. The expiratory pressure relief (EPR) lessens the pressure given during expiration, making it simpler to breathe out against the air pressure.
Diagnosis:
- Noises when inhaling.
How to fix it:
- Setting the air pressure correctly. The ideal CPAP pressure for most people is between 6 and 14 cmH2O, with an average of 10 cmH2O (always set your CPAP to your prescribed level from your Doctor).
- Consult your doctor on the right air pressure.
7. Loose mask
A common reason for a noisy ResMed CPAP is a loose mask.
A loose mask is one that cannot fit correctly because it is too big. No matter the CPAP brand, the CPAP machine will make noises if the mask you are using is loose. This is particularly common when you buy a new mask without it being properly fitted first.
Diagnosis:
- It keeps slipping off.
- You notice more frequent leaks.
- You still snore or experience apnea even while using the CPAP.
How to fix it:
- Always fit the mask before purchase.
- Before buying, double check that the headgear is not too tight, the mask size is correct and that you will be comfortable in its mask type.
- Tighten the mask’s straps as much as possible without becoming uncomfortable.
- Get additional CPAP equipment such as a mask liner or CPAP pillows with cut-outs to achieve a better fit.
- Remove the mask and replace it with a new one.
Plentiful Air has more information to help you stop your ResMed CPAP from leaking available here.
8. Temperature
Temperature is another cause of ResMed noises. When the room temperature and that of your CPAP machine differ, there will be some kind of noise.
For the ResMed auto CPAPs, the HumidAir heated humidifier will reach its ideal temperature of 104°F. The device then maintains this temperature for another ten minutes, allowing therapy to begin. If therapy is not started within that period, the CPAP will cool down and blow cool air.
The ResMed machine will work with or without water. However, if you want operate it without water you must enter the menu and switch off humidification in the’ My Options’ menu.
If you use water in your ResMed CPAP, be sure it is distilled water.
Diagnosis:
- Blocked hose.
- The hose looking cloudy.
- Sore throat.
- Nasal congestions.
How to fix it:
- Adjusting the temperatures.
- Adjusting the humidifier settings according to your doctor’s recommendations.
9. Rainout
CPAP rainout is an extremely common reason for a noisy ResMed CPAP.
When hot air cools in your tubing and reaches your mask as water, CPAP rainout occurs, leaving you with a damp face. You will hear noises when water condensation touches the tube and mask.
Diagnosis for rainout:
- Waking up to a damp face.
- Gurgling in the tube.
How to fix it:
- Use an automated ResMed CPAP machine such as the ResMed AirSense 10.
- Make sure your CPAP machine and mask are not leveled.
- Lower the pressure in your CPAP machine to the same level as the pressure in your mask.
- Using a heated tube or insulating the CPAP tubing with a cloth.
- Using a tube jacket.
- Wrapping the CPAP hose to ensure a consistent supply of heated air.
- Set your CPAP to a proper temperature level.
- Make changes to your room’s temperature.
- Making adjustments to the humidifier’s settings.
More detail about leaking ResMed CPAP machines is available here.
Why your ResMed CPAP machine beeping
A ResMed CPAP machine beeps because it has detected a leak. The beep is a notification that you need to adjust your mask to minimize leaking. When the mask position is corrected, the beeping will stop.
How to reset a ResMed CPAP
To reset your ResMed CPAP machine, enter the clinical menu by navigating to the ‘my option’ menu, and pressing and holding the ‘home’ and ‘turn’ buttons at the same time for approximately 5 seconds. The settings can then be adjusted as desired.
You can as well turn the machine off then switch it on again and go back to sleep with the machine at the low initial pressure.
Why your ResMed CPAP is not turning on
A ResMed CPAP machine will not turn on if there is a power cord issue, the power outlet is faulty, or the CPAP machine is defective.
However, it is morel likely the ResMed CPAP is asleep, or the power has been disconnected. Especially if the ResMed CPAP won’t switch on and the screen is blank.
