Why Is My CPAP So Loud? Tips To Making It Quieter

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Whether you’re new to using a CPAP machine or an experienced vet, at one point or another you’re convinced that your CPAP machine is being too loud.

There are a few reasons your CPAP might be louder than it should be:

  • It is dirty or not properly assembled
  • It is old or in need of repair
  • Your mask is making noise, not your machine
  • Placement of your machine

These are just a few issues, there are certainly other problems that may occur but these are the most common. Keep reading to find out how to remedy these issues and get your CPAP to operate quieter.

How Loud Is A CPAP Supposed To Be?

It is helpful to first take a look at how loud your CPAP is actually supposed to be. You might think about the noise that a washing machine makes, this noise level is marked at 50-75 decibels depending on the machine. A CPAP is designed to be quiet so that it does not disturb the wearer or anyone that might sleep in the room with them and is measured at 30 decibels.

The equivalent noise to 30 decibels is leaves rustling. It’s likely to sound like some steady white noise for most people. It might even sound like a light rainstorm outside without the occasional thunder.

For most people, that’s comfortable and might even help you fall asleep faster once you get used to it. However, there are going to be times when the sound of your CPAP gets louder than this. It might start gradually making more noise because problems are developing.

Is The CPAP Too Loud Because It’s Dirty?

Looking first at the machine itself, when the filter, hoses or the tank is dirty it can make the machine louder. You should be changing your filter regularly, at least once a month, more often if your machine functions in a room where there is lots of dust or where pets have access.

You should be looking at your filter for visual cues that it needs to be changed and you can generally tell by the color of the filter if it is time to swap out.

You should also be cleaning the tank often, every day is ideal, but if you cannot clean it every day aim to do so every other day or as often as possible. You also want to make sure your hoses are clean and that they are properly attached to both the machine and the mask.

Check the manual for your particular CPAP to check on its maintenance requirements. Make sure you are following the recommended schedule to ensure your CPAP is clean and functioning for years.

Is Your CPAP Too Loud Because It Needs Maintenance?

If you have an older machine or you have noticed that there is something wrong with it, you may need to have it repaired or replaced. Older machines are going to make more noise because they have more hours on them and they have been used more.

The continually moving parts make for a machine that is going to make more noise than a new, top of the line option. If you have a machine that needs work you should get it to the repair shop quickly.

Is The Noise Coming From Your CPAP Mask?

Another common issue is that your mask may be what is making the noise rather than the machine itself. If your machine is whistling or making a high-pitched noise it is likely that there is a problem with the connection of hoses or the fit of your mask.

Your mask should have a tight seal in your nostrils so that there is no way for air to escape from around your nostrils. Your mask should be snug and should have the proper straps on the top and sides of your head to make sure that it does stay in place while you sleep.

If your mask is making noise, try swapping out the nose pieces or swapping for an entirely different style of mask to figure out what is going to work best for you.

Is Your CPAP Noisy Because Of Where You Have Put It?

The last issue you might want to take into account is where your CPAP is placed. Your CPAP needs to be on a level surface that is stable and secure and that is also close enough to you and your bed that movement is not going to dislodge it as you move in your sleep.

You can think of a CPAP along the lines of an air filter for a fish tank, if it is not level it is going to make more noise and it can even rattle against other items on the night stand or other area where you have it placed.

Try placing your machine on a level surface with a soft item beneath it to help keep it level and to help muffle the sound. A rubber mat can be both a suitable cushion as well as easy to clean if the machine leaks at all.

What Else Can Be Used To Keep A CPAP Quieter?

  • Q-Tube Muffler – there is actually a “muffler” (just like one for your car engine) that can be attached to your CPAP’s Q-tube to muffle the sound going through the hoses. It’s compatible with machines made by Somnetics, ResMed, DeVilbiss Healthcare, Philips Respironics, and Fisher Paykel.

In Summation

A CPAP is a lifesaving machine that is going to keep you alive when you are sleeping. For many, life with out a CPAP is simply not possible. Though they can be noisy and they can cause some discomfort while you sleep, they are essential.

Taking the time to make sure your machine is in good shape, that it is clean and clean and that the filter is clean as well, that the hoses are hooked up properly, your mask fits well and that the machine is on a stable and level surface.

There is no way to make a CPAP completely silent, it simply cannot be done, if you do take the time to care for your machine and troubleshoot what issues might be causing the noise you can greatly reduce the overall noise that it makes and sleep happily.