The inner workings of a CPAP include the tubing that connects many accessories together. The CPAP hoses serve different functions and depending on its length and diameter, can affect your personalized experience in your CPAP therapy.
The two main dimensions we need to consider when talking about your CPAP hose are the length and the diameter (both the inner diameter and the diameter of the connecting ends).
CPAP Hose Length
CPAP hoses, or tubings, can vary in length, or how long it is, depending on where you attach it and what it connects. A standard tube is about 6 feet long but you can also opt for either a shorter length, like 4 feet or longer lengths, like 8 feet or 10 feet.
This standard length hose is commonly used to attach the CPAP machine or humidifier to the mask. Think about your placement of your machine and humidifier to decide on a good length. Another important aspect to remember is if you use a heated humidifier, it’s a good idea to have a CPAP hose with a shorter length to avoid water accumulation in the hose and the dropping of temperature. Heated hoses are also available if ever the humidifier can’t be physically close to you. Shop for hoses here.
Shorter hose lengths are dedicated to the connections between the machine and humidifier, and a mask to a longer hose (for comfort and less tug on the mask). These are usually 3 to 4 feet in length.
CPAP Hose Diameter
The inner width of the tubing and the connector are their respective diameters. Standard tubing averages to about 19mm in diameter, while slimmer tubing is about 15mm. The inner tubing diameter affects the amount of pressure that is delivered to you (the slimmer, the more pressure generally). When setting up your CPAP machine, you will have to select the type of tubing used. If you change the diameter of this tubing at one point in your CPAP therapy, remember to update the settings or consult a provider to have it changed.
The diameter of most CPAP hose connectors are a standard 22m and are fit onto virtually all CPAP masks.
When considering a slimmer CPAP hose, try to check your machine for compatibility before buying as some machines aren’t designed for this kind of tubing.
A word on CPAP Hose Care
CPAP Hoses, like all the other parts of the CPAP machine, need to be maintained well to ensure proper sleep apnea therapy. It is recommended for hoses to be washed every after use with warm water and mild soap/shampoo. After this, allow the hose to dry before using it again.
If maintained well, CPAP hoses can last for up to a year. Regularly check on your tubings to make sure they still fit well and are in pristine condition.
