Supplies
CPAP Supply Replacement Schedule (Medicare Table)
Medicare's usual maximums, which many private plans mirror, allow a new mask frame every 3 months, cushions or pillows up to twice a month (full face cushions once a month), tubing every 3 months, disposable filters twice a month, and headgear, chinstrap, reusable filter and water chamber every 6 months. Replace anything sooner if it is damaged or stops sealing, even if you pay yourself.
The Medicare table
These are the usual maximum quantities in CMS policy L33718 (revision effective January 1, 2024, checked October 2026). Full face mask (A7030): 1 per 3 months. Full face cushion (A7031): 1 per month. Nasal mask (A7034): 1 per 3 months. Nasal mask cushion (A7032): 2 per month. Nasal pillows (A7033): 2 per month.
Combination oral and nasal mask (A7027): 1 per 3 months, with its oral cushion (A7028) and nasal pillows (A7029) 2 per month each. Headgear (A7035): 1 per 6 months. Chinstrap (A7036): 1 per 6 months. Standard tubing (A7037): 1 per 3 months. Heated tubing (A4604): 1 per 3 months. Disposable filter (A7038): 2 per month. Non disposable filter (A7039): 1 per 6 months. Water chamber (A7046): 1 per 6 months.
Maximums, not requirements
Medicare treats these as the most it will usually pay for; quantities above them are denied as not reasonable and necessary. You do not have to replace items that often if they are still in good shape.
Manufacturer schedules differ in places. Philips says to replace DreamStation 2 tubing every 6 months, the gray reusable filter every 6 months and the blue disposable filter every 30 nights. ResMed says to replace the AirSense 11 filter every six months or sooner if damaged or blocked.
Signs something needs replacing now
Cushions: leaks you cannot fix, stiffness, tears, or a cushion that feels slick or yellowed. Headgear: stretched straps you keep tightening. Tubing: holes, tears, cracks or stains that will not wash out. Water chamber: leaks, cracks, cloudiness, pitting or a torn seal.
Filters: visibly gray or dirty. Change filters sooner in dusty or smoky conditions.
Ordering on schedule
With Medicare, suppliers must contact you no sooner than 30 days before your current supply is expected to run out, get your affirmative response, and deliver no sooner than 10 days before it runs out. Auto shipping is not allowed.
A new order from your clinician is needed if the quantity you use per month increases or the type of supply changes, according to the CMS policy article.
Checklist
- Note the date each item was last replaced.
- Check cushions and headgear monthly.
- Check filters every week or two.
- Inspect tubing and water chamber monthly.
- Respond to your supplier's refill contact; they cannot auto ship under Medicare.
Supplies that can help
The air inlet filter keeps dust and lint out of the machine and your airway; it is a cheap part that needs regular replacement.
The plain hose between the machine and the mask; it wears out and should be replaced on a regular schedule.
Tubing with a built-in heating wire that keeps humidified air warm all the way to the mask, which is the main fix for rainout (water droplets …
The removable water tank of a CPAP humidifier; it wears and needs replacing, especially if it cracks, clouds or leaks.
A soft strap that supports the jaw to help keep the mouth closed, used mainly with nasal and nasal pillow masks to reduce mouth leaks.
Thin gel or foam pads that stick to the bridge of the nose, where many masks press hardest, to prevent red marks and sores.
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Frequently asked questions
How often should I replace my CPAP mask?
Medicare allows a new mask frame every 3 months and cushions up to monthly or twice monthly depending on type. Replace sooner if it leaks or is damaged.
How often does insurance pay for CPAP supplies?
Medicare follows the usual maximum table in its PAP policy, and many private plans use similar intervals. Ask your plan for its schedule.
Do I have to replace CPAP supplies on schedule?
No. The schedule is a maximum, not a requirement. Replace items when they wear out or stop working.
How often should I replace my CPAP tubing?
Medicare allows one standard or heated tube every 3 months. Philips says to replace DreamStation 2 tubing every 6 months. Replace it sooner if it has holes, tears or cracks.
Sources
Last reviewed October 11, 2026. How we research · Report an error