The CPAP machine can save you from distracting sounds at night such as snoring because it cures it but it might also end up replacing the noise instead. Don’t worry, I’m here to help you fix that.

So, how to make a CPAP machine quieter? There are different ways to quiet down a CPAP machine, check out these 10 helpful tips on how to make a CPAP machine quieter!

  1. Use a white noise machine
    • Using a white noise machine will save you from a lot of noises. It produces a low sound that we aren’t able to hear at all and it can mask most kinds of noises!
  2. Switch to a quiet CPAP machine
    • Due to the complains about the loud noise most CPAP machines make, there are now companies or manufacturers that began designing “quiet” versions that you can buy.
  3. Clean your CPAP machine
    • Sometimes, it might only need a little cleaning. Machines also need to be maintained properly in order to continue functioning well.
  4. Avoid leaks with a CPAP pillow
    • Using a CPAP pillow can prevent leaks coming from the mask. They are custom made in order to suit your best comfort. Check online for available CPAP pillows that can lessen the noise.
  5. Check leaks from the mask
    • There are times when the mask ends up leaking due to improper placement. Try moving the mask’s position to avoid leaks that can cause the noise.
  6. Do not over tighten the mask
    • Some people believe tightening the mask will prevent the leaks but it can actually work backwards instead so avoid over tightening the mask to prevent leaks and make loud noises.
  7. Try to reposition the machine
    • For some cases, it’s the machine’s positioning that can cause the noise. To fix this, try to move the machine somewhere below ear level but not too low.

      Remember, the air you’re breathing will come from wherever the machine is placed so keep it somewhere with fresh air.

      You can also try placing a soft towel beneath the machine so it can absorb the “shock” from the vibration and prevent making loud noises.
  8. Check the humidifier’s water
    • When the water level from the humidifier becomes low, the machine might make noises. Try to bring back the normal water level for the humidifier to quiet down the machine.
  9. Replace the mask cushion.
    • Mask cushion can no longer work as it gets worn out by time and may cause mask leaks that produces noise. Replacing it can help get rid of noises.
  10. Try using special mask liners.
    • If replacing the mask cushion did not solve the noise problem for you, try to use some of those special mask liners that can help seal the mask properly and prevent leaks.

What are the quietest CPAP machines today

Since it was mentioned above, there are now indeed quiet versions of CPAP machines that can be purchased. It can be the mask alone or together with the device that produces the air pressure.

Regardless of which one you need, we will provide a list of five most popular and preferred quiet CPAP machines that you can switch to.

  1. AirFit P10 Nasal Pillows Mask by ResMed
    • This one is declared as the quietest CPAP mask manufactured by ResMed. It is equipped with the latest technology in sleep apnea technology.

      The mask is 50% lighter and 50% quieter than other masks produced by the company.

      The quiet air woven-mesh ventilation system will redirect the air that you exhale in a gentle manner.

      This is why users report that using this mask is so gentle and relaxing since it is very quiet compared to other masks they’ve used before.
  2. AirFit N10 Nasal Mask by ResMed
    • This mask have a very user-friendly design and has a visual freedom with ultra light, compact and whisper quiet.

      Its optimum seal is ensured by Spring Air technology while the Easy Click headgear clips guarantee the most comfortable fit.
  3. AirSense 10 AutoSet + HumidAir and Climate Air Tubing
    • This one is also from ResMed and it is equipped with an ultra-quiet “Easy Breathe” motor that patients can enjoy. The low noise makes the environment peaceful.

      Even with higher pressure settings, it is still not as loud as other CPAP devices.

      The “Easy-Breathe” is a highly innovative motor featuring special isolating materials and foam which are built within the base of the machine.

      Thanks to this, the machine produces little to no turbulence at all and it does not release any disturbing noise into the environment, giving users a peaceful sleep at night.
  4. DreamStation Auto CPAP by Respironics
    • The dream station is considered a revolutionary product that incorporates high-end technology that gives a whisper quiet sleep and comfortable therapy whenever you use it.

      The machine actually delivers whisper quiet sound levels and the device is virtually one of the quietest CPAP therapy devices available on the market until today, it has not been beaten.

      Its motor has a sound level of only 25.8 dB when used on average pressure setting. (10cm) Even at higher pressure levels, it still lives up to its name.
  5. Quattro Air Full Face Mask System
    • Not only is it a quieter CPAP machine, it also has an efficient and quiet CPAP mask making it a full set that is worth checking.

      The quattro air full face mask is also manufactured by ResMed and it also provides high quality, comfortable and whisper quiet mask system.

      Its quietness delivers a satisfying therapy and makes compliance a lot easier that ever.

There are plenty more options for quiet CPAP masks and machines out there, but these top five can be one of your first choices.

Why CPAP machine can be loud

The CPAP machine or “continuous positive airway pressure” is just like any other ventilation machine. It vibrates and produces loud noises even when they are trying to design it with quiet features.

In this case, if your CPAP machine is louder than usual, it might have a leak, a defective part, a low water level in the humidifier or such.

It can have many reasons why it will make loud noises that can turn sleeping nights uncomfortable when its job is to actually make sleeping a lot better than before.

Sometimes, it is simply worn out by time and you might have to replace the machine. The average lifespan of a CPAP machine is seven years but it can last longer if maintained properly.

There are also cases when it might just be overheating. Make sure to turn it off when the machine is not being used to avoid the loud noise it can produce when it’s overused.

How to clean CPAP machine to make it quiet

As an additional, you can also learn about properly cleaning your CPAP machine to make it quiet. Here’s what you need to do.

What you need to use for cleaning:

  • Soft cloth
  • Dish soap (mild antibacterial is better)
  • Warm water
  • Tub, basin or your sink
  • Towel

Once you’ve prepared the tools we will use for the cleaning, we’re ready to start. Here’s the step by step procedure on how to clean the CPAP machine.

  1. Unplug the machine
    • The most important step is by making sure the machine is unplugged for safety precaution. We must avoid unwanted accidents such as electrical shocks when cleaning.
  2. Disassemble the parts
    • Disconnect the mask from the CPAP tubing. If your mask or nasal pillow has a headgear, remove or detach it. If there are other parts that are easily reattached, you should also separate them.
  3. Wet the soft cloth with warm water
    • Gently wipe the external surface of the CPAP machine to remove dust once the soft cloth is properly soaked. Once again, make sure everything is unplugged to avoid accidents.
  4. Fill the tub, basin or sink with warm water
    • Now, submerge the mask or nasal pillow, headgear if you have one, tubing and any connectors or parts in the warm soapy water. Let it sit in there for a short period of time, at least 30 minutes at most.
  5. Rinse the filters
    • Some filters can be rinsed but others are required to be replaced at least once a month. The replacement time can be different depending on the product.
  6. Reassemble the machine
    • Once everything has been completely dried, place the parts back together. Apply the headgear to your mask or nasal pillow, hook the mask or pillow back onto the tubing and make sure to connect everything.

      If you notice anything odd or different, or if the machine isn’t working as it should, you should feel free to contact the manufacturer for assistance.

Related Questions

How noisy is a CPAP machine?

A CPAP machine can be very noisy, like a car engine. However, the newer models today are designed to be quieter in order to provide better experience and comfort for its users and other people.

Is it dangerous to sleep without CPAP?

Yes, if you have severe sleep apnea, it can be dangerous to sleep without CPAP or any treatment used to counter the condition. Sleep apnea can bring in other complicated health issues that can turn fatal.

First of, it disrupts the breathing causing us the heart to stop beating for mere seconds up to two minutes, that alone is already dangerous.

For your best safety, sleep with CPAP as much as possible.

Why is my CPAP machine whistling?

Your CPAP machine may be creating the whistling noise due to a leak or holes. Make sure there are no holes and the mask is properly sealed to avoid the whistling sound.

The CPAP machine makes the whistling sound when the air that is meant to be delivered to your body escapes through the leak or hole.