Replacement parts
Replacement CPAP air filters
The air inlet filter keeps dust and lint out of the machine and your airway; it is a cheap part that needs regular replacement.
Why it helps
Every breath you take on CPAP passes through the machine's inlet filter first. A clogged filter can restrict airflow, and some machines will flag a blocked filter as a possible cause of problems. Fresh filters are one of the simplest maintenance items, and Medicare's usual maximum allows 2 disposable filters (A7038) per month and 1 non-disposable filter (A7039) every 6 months.
How to choose
Filters are model specific, so buy the one made for your exact machine (for example, an AirSense 11 uses an Air11 filter, which comes in standard and hypoallergenic versions). ResMed's AirSense 11 guide says to check the filter and replace it every six months, or sooner if it has holes or is blocked by dirt or dust, and that the filter is not washable or reusable. Other machines use a washable filter plus a disposable one, so check your manual. A hypoallergenic filter catches finer particles; ResMed notes it causes a small reduction in pressure accuracy at high leaks.
Do not wash a filter that the manual says is disposable, and never run the machine without a filter in place. Replace the filter more often in dusty rooms, with pets, or during smoke events.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I change my CPAP filter?
Follow your machine's manual. ResMed's AirSense 11 guide says every six months, or sooner if it has holes or is blocked. Medicare's usual maximum is 2 disposable filters per month, which many suppliers use as their refill schedule.
Can I wash a disposable CPAP filter?
No. ResMed says the AirSense 11 filter is not washable or reusable. Only filters described as reusable or non-disposable in your manual should be rinsed.
Are generic filters safe to use?
A filter that does not fit the slot exactly can let unfiltered air past it. Buy filters listed for your exact machine model, and check the fit when you install it.
Sources
Last reviewed October 11, 2026. How we research · Report an error