Starting CPAP therapy can be overwhelming. Besides fitting different masks and dealing with your insurance provider, you have to choose the right CPAP tubing. With all the different CPAP hoses on the market, you likely have a lot of questions: Why are there so many different types? What is a 15mm hose? Which hose does my CPAP use? And do I really need a heated hose?
In this CPAP tubing guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about finding the perfect hose for an optimal CPAP setup. From the differences between heated vs non heated tubing to options for tubing lengths and diameters, we look at it all. We also list CPAP machine and hose compatibility to help you find the right hose for your CPAP. Lastly, we have tubing accessory recommendations that can help improve your sleep therapy experience.
Jump To:
- Hose Types: Heated vs Non Heated CPAP Tubing
- CPAP Hose Size: Length and Diameter
- Compatibility: Which CPAP Tubing Should You Use With Your Machine?
- Tubing Accessories
- Maintenance: Heated and Non Heated CPAP Tubing
Types: Heated vs Non Heated CPAP Tubing
When buying a CPAP hose, the first thing you might come across is the phrase “CPAP heated tubing.” But should you consider purchasing one? Are there any benefits to spending extra for it?
Let’s compare the features of heated vs non heated CPAP tubing:
CPAP Heated Tubing
At first glance, CPAP heated tubing looks just like any regular hose. But what isn’t readily visible is its heating element. This heating element consists of coils and a power source (which is typically plugged into the CPAP machine). It works by using electrical currents to heat the coils, which then warms the entire length of the tube.
So what’s the reason behind this design? The answer is that it prevents condensation buildup in the tubing, caused by your machine’s heated humidifier. By keeping the air temperature consistent from the humidifier to your CPAP mask, the heated tubing stops water droplets from forming and leaking into your mask.
Some models, like the Luna G3 and ResMed ClimateLine Air heated tubing, work with the auto humidity functions of their respective machines. By automatically adjusting the tubing temperature and humidity level, they can maintain a consistently warm and moist airflow regardless of changes in your room’s conditions.
Pros
- Prevents rainout caused by excessive condensation from CPAP heated humidifiers
- Ensures a comfortably warm and humid airflow
- Some models (e.g. Luna G3 and ResMed ClimateLine Air heated tubing) let you adjust the tubing temperature
- Ideal for people living in cold climates
- Ideal for those who often use heated humidifiers and are prone to dry airways during therapy
Cons
- Can be more expensive than non-heated tubing
- Not all machines support CPAP heated tubing
- Machine-specific, which means it will only work with a specific model or brand
- Heavier and less flexible than non-heated tubing
Of course, if you don’t use your CPAP heated humidifier, then you don’t need a heated hose. But if you live in a cold, dry climate or like to keep your room cool with air conditioning, then a humidifier is recommended. It’ll help keep your nasal passages, mouth and throat nice and moist so you can just sleep. Learn more about how CPAP humidifiers work in our CPAP humidifier guide.
Non-Heated Tubing
Non-heated tubing is just what it sounds like—a hose without the heating element found in its heated counterpart. While it can’t guarantee a rainout-free therapy, it has its fair share of advantages:
Pros
- More affordable (non-heated tubing can be up to 50% cheaper than heated tubing)
- Lighter and more flexible
- Most models are compatible with all CPAP machines and masks
- Ideal for those who don’t use their heated humidifiers
Cons
- Not as effective at preventing condensation buildup as CPAP heated tubing
- Unable to maintain consistent warmth and humidity
- Not the best choice for those prone to dryness and discomfort
Browse our wide selection of heated and non-heated tubing at RespShop.com.
CPAP Hose Size: Length and Diameter
Next, you have to select the right CPAP hose size. There are two dimensions to consider: the length of the tubing (from the machine to your mask) and its diameter or inner width.
How does the CPAP hose size affect your therapy? Why can’t you simply choose the longest, widest tube?
Find out all the answers in our CPAP tubing guide to sizes:
Tubing Length
CPAP tubing come in various lengths with 6 feet being the most common and 10 feet being the longest. They can also be as short as 8, 4, and even 2 feet.
When selecting a tubing length, it all boils down to three factors:
- Where do you put your CPAP machine? If it’s on the nightstand or right beside you, a 6-foot hose will work just fine.
- How much freedom of movement do you need? An active sleeper will want to choose a longer CPAP hose. A hose that’s too short might cause you to accidentally pull the machine off your nightstand.
- Do you often use a humidifier? CPAP heated tubing is usually 6 feet long. But if you prefer to use non-heated tubing with your humidifier, you’ll want to avoid excessively long hoses, which can affect the temperature and humidity level.
Longer isn’t exactly better. While long CPAP hoses allow more freedom of movement, they can cause a decrease in air pressure, humidity, or temperature, potentially resulting in rainouts. This is because of the greater distance the air needs to travel from the machine to your mask.
That said, if you’re looking for a hose that is not the standard 6 feet length, we recommend Sunset Universal CPAP Tubing. This flexible, non-heated CPAP hose is available in 2, 4, 8 and 10 feet at less than $15.
Tubing Diameter
When it comes to CPAP hose size, one thing that confuses users the most is the diameter.
The inner width/diameter of standard CPAP tubing is 19mm. Slimmer tubing, like the ResMed SlimLine CPAP hose and the antimicrobial Liviliti Healthy Hose has an inner diameter of 15mm. You can also find hose diameters as narrow as 12mm, like the Philips Respironics Micro-Flexible heated tubing.
The confusion lies in the tubing connection cuffs—all of which are standardized to 22mm diameter. This connector size fits all CPAP hoses, masks, and machines.
Now that’s all sorted out, how does a CPAP hose’s diameter affect your therapy?
- Weight: The wider the tube, the heavier it is. If you often have trouble with tube drag (when your hose pulls your mask and breaks its seal), consider a slimmer hose.
- Air pressure: Modern CPAP machines have tube settings, letting you select the hose diameter you’re using. This enables the machine to adjust the air pressure appropriate to the CPAP hose size. That way, you won’t have to worry about pressure changes after switching to a different tubing diameter.
Compatibility: Which CPAP Tubing Should You Use With Your Machine?
As mentioned, most non-heated or standard CPAP tubing options offer universal compatibility with all CPAP machines and masks. Heated tubing, on the other hand, are machine-specific.
To ensure a functional setup, we’ve listed all the heated and non-heated tubing that is compatible with popular CPAP machines of 2024:
| CPAP Machine | Heated Tubing | Non-Heated Tubing |
|---|---|---|
| ResMed AirSense 11 | AirSense 11 ClimateLine Air heated tubing | Any standard hose, any 15mm hose, ResMed SlimLine CPAP hose |
| ResMed AirSense 10 | AirSense 10 ClimateLine Air Oxy and ClimateLine Air heated tubing | Any standard hose, any 15mm hose, ResMed SlimLine CPAP hose |
| ResMed AirMini | None | Any standard/15mm hose (use the AirMini tubing adapter), AirMini CPAP hose |
| Luna G3 Auto | Luna G3 heated tubing | Any standard hose, any 15mm hose |
| Breas Z2 Auto | None | Any standard hose, any 15mm hose, Z1/Z2 SlimStyle tubing |
| Transcend Micro | None | Micro Standard Hose or any standard/15mm hose, AirFlex 6Ft tubing (only compatible with the Transcend Micro) |
| Fisher & Paykel SleepStyle | SleepStyle ThermoSmart heated tubing | Any standard hose, any 15mm hose, SleepStyle Non-Heated tubing |
Tubing Accessories
Given all these options, you’re probably having a hard time choosing the right tubing. There’s a lot to consider: What if you need a longer hose but it gets tangled every night? What if you prefer a non-heated tube but are worried about condensation buildup?
Luckily, there are hose accessories that offer solutions to all these and more. Here’s our CPAP tubing guide to accessories that’ll enhance your setup:
Hose Extension Connectors
While 10 feet is the maximum tubing length, you can extend your hose using a special adapter like the Sunset Healthcare Circuit Connector. This lets you connect two CPAP hoses of any length and diameter, giving you greater freedom of movement.
Tube Management Systems
If you have an extra long CPAP hose setup, you likely struggle with your CPAP hose getting all tangled up after a night of tossing and turning. It’s probably also dragging on the floor and getting caught on furniture. With a CPAP tubing holder, you can keep your setup nice and tidy.
Also known as a hose lift or clip, it secures your tubing above your head, around your bed, and to the machine. It even comes with a hook to hang your mask when not in use. Plus, the hose lift ensures your tube doesn’t end up on the floor during the day.
Tubing Wrap
Before heated tubing was invented, there was a simple solution to preventing rainout: CPAP tubing wrap.
These soft fabric covers slip onto your non-heated tubing, insulating the hose to minimize condensation buildup—all while protecting it from dirt and damage. When buying a CPAP tubing wrap, remember to choose the right one for your hose size. There are tubing wraps for standard hoses as well as wraps for 15mm hoses.
Maintenance: Heated and Non Heated CPAP Tubing
When it comes to cleaning requirements, is there a difference between heated vs non heated CPAP tubing?
The answer is: not much. Both heated and non-heated hoses can be cleaned with mild soap and water, but you need to be a bit more careful when handling a heated CPAP hose, along with its heating element. You also need to ensure that the connector is completely dry before reattaching the heated tube to your machine.
How to Clean Heated and Non-Heated Hoses
Whether you use a heated humidifier or not, it’s important to clean your CPAP hose every week. Doing so not only extends its lifespan, it also keeps the air you breathe free of allergens and disease-causing microbes.
- Disconnect the tubing from the CPAP machine and mask.
- Fill a basin with warm water and mild soap.
- Soak the hose in the soapy solution.
- For best results, scrub the inside of the hose with a CPAP tube brush.
- Rinse the hose thoroughly to remove any soapy residue.
- Hang the hose and let it air dry. Keep it away from direct sunlight.
Disinfecting CPAP Tubing
For a deep clean, you can disinfect your CPAP tubing with diluted vinegar. To do this, follow these steps:
- Mix 1 part vinegar in 3 parts water.
- Soak the hose in the solution for up to 30 minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly to remove any lingering smell.
- Hang the hose and let it air dry.
When to Replace CPAP Tubing
Even if you stick to a strict CPAP cleaning schedule, harmful bacteria will still accumulate in your hose over time. That means you need to replace your tubing every 3 to 6 months, depending on the manufacturer’s instructions.
Always check your hose for signs of wear and tear. If your CPAP hose looks damaged, deformed, or discolored, change it out right away.
Summary
When selecting a CPAP hose, it’s important to think about what you want and need in your current setup.
Do you often use a heated humidifier and struggle with rainout? Invest in a heated CPAP hose that’s compatible with your machine and avoid longer hoses. Does the weight of your tube keep breaking your mask’s seal? You might want to try a lighter, slimmer hose.
In some cases, the solutions to these problems come in the form of CPAP tubing accessories.
If you need a longer hose for better freedom of movement, you can connect two hoses with a special adapter. For a tangle-free setup, organize your tubing with a hose lift. And if you struggle with rainout but don’t want to buy a new heated hose, you can cover your non-heated CPAP tubing with a tube wrap to prevent condensation buildup.
Regardless of which CPAP hose you purchase, remember to care for it properly by cleaning it at least once a week. That way, you can get more use out of your hose, protect yourself from health issues, and get the most out of your therapy.
If you have any questions about our CPAP tubing guide, the RespShop team is here to help you out. Call, email, or chat with us by clicking one of the options below.