Updated on 28 October 2026 · By Andy Leleux, sleep technologist
What does the message mean?
ResMed CPAP devices (AirSense 10, AirCurve 10, Lumis) are designed for a nominal lifespan of 5 years. After 21,900 hours of operation, this message appears on the screen:
Important: this message is a recommendation to have the device inspected, not a shutdown. ResMed states in its technical bulletin (June 2021) that the device may continue to work. A service by an approved technical center is recommended (replacing the blower unit, calibrating the sensors).
Source: ResMed technical bulletin CJ BT062021-001, France and Belgium, June 2021 (in French).
After how long does the message appear?
The message is triggered at 21,900 hours of operation. How long it takes to get there depends on how many hours a night you use the device:
| Message after… | With use of… | For reference |
|---|---|---|
| 5 years | 12 h/night | |
| 6 years | 10 h/night | |
| 7 years | 8.5 h/night | |
| 8 years | 7.5 h/night | |
| 9 years | 6.5 h/night | |
| 10 years | 6 h/night | ← typical use |
| 15 years * | 4 h/night | ← NIHDI minimum |
In short: a patient who uses their CPAP at exactly the NIHDI minimum (4 hours a night on average) will only see this message after 15 years. With typical use of 6 hours a night, after 10 years. The NIHDI convention sets no lifespan for the device: your sleep center decides whether to have it serviced or replaced.
* The table in the ResMed bulletin gives 14 years for 4 hours a night; the arithmetic (21,900 ÷ (4 × 365)) gives 15 years.
What to do if the message appears
Keep using your CPAP as normal
The device keeps working. Do not stop your treatment.
Contact your CPAP provider
If you are covered by the NIHDI convention, your provider is your first point of contact. Repairs and replacement are included in the convention.
Discuss a replacement with your sleep center
Depending on your situation, you may be offered a new device. Otherwise, a technical service extends the life of the current one.
Routine care for your CPAP
Maintenance reminders based on ResMed's recommendations for the Air10 and Lumis ranges:
Every month
Inspect the filter and check it is neither blocked nor torn
Every 3 months
Replace the hypoallergenic filter (or more often in a dusty environment)
Every 6 months
Replace the standard filter. Wipe the outside with a damp cloth and mild soap
These reminders are for the device. For the mask, tubing and humidifier, which are cleaned on a very different schedule, see how to clean your CPAP without damaging it FR.
ResMed recommends having the device inspected by an approved technical center 5 years after its date of manufacture. Source: ResMed technical bulletin CJ BT062021-001, June 2021.
Got a new CPAP? What to do with the old one
If your old machine still works, or can be refurbished, it can help another patient. Second Souffle is our future non-profit project to collect and redistribute used CPAP machines in Belgium.
Find out about Second Souffle →Going further
Want to get more out of your treatment?
Before thinking about a replacement, first check that your current CPAP is properly set up. Our report decoder helps you read your data.
