AirSense 11 Troubleshooting Guide

AirSense 11 Troubleshooting Guide: Quick Fixes for Common CPAP Issues

When you rely on your AirSense 11 CPAP machine for restful sleep and good health, even small technical problems can feel stressful. The good news? Most issues can be solved at home with just a few simple checks.

This guide covers the most frequent AirSense 11 questions and fixes---from humidifier quirks to SmartStart concerns---so you can get back to uninterrupted therapy quickly.


1. Start & Stop (SmartStart / SmartStop) Isn't Working

Normally you can begin therapy by pressing the power button or, if SmartStart is enabled, simply by breathing into the mask. SmartStop should end therapy when you remove it.

  • Double-check that mask and hose connections are secure. A loose connection can prevent the machine from detecting your breath.\
  • Ensure SmartStart/SmartStop is turned on in your menu.
  • If SmartStart still doesn't trigger, try a deeper first breath or use the power button.
  • If SmartStop delays slightly, don't worry---this brief wait is intentional.

2. MyAir App or Cellular Connection Problems

The AirSense 11 doesn't use Wi-Fi; it relies on 4G cellular service. If you can't connect to the MyAir app or see network bars:

  • Restart everything -- Unplug the AirSense 11, uninstall and reinstall the MyAir app, and restart your phone.
  • Check signal strength -- On the machine, go to My Options → About.
    • An empty Provider field or crossed-out bars means no service.
    • Move the device to a spot with better reception and leave it plugged in for a few hours.\
  • Traveling abroad? Data transfer can fail outside the region of purchase.

3. Humidifier Issues (No Water Use, Leaks, or Dryness)

Water chamber not emptying? Your AirSense 11 may think the room is already humid.

  • From the home screen, tap + More → My Options → Climate Control and set it to Manual.
  • Activate Warmup mode to test whether the heater plate is warming. After 10 minutes the base should feel warm.

Experiencing leaks? Check for overfilling or hairline cracks and replace the chamber every 6 months or sooner if damaged.

Prefer therapy without humidification? Turn off Humidity Level and Tube Temp in My Options and insert either the empty chamber or a side cover.

Dry nose or throat? Increase the humidity one step at a time (starting around level 4) until comfortable. Heated tubing such as ResMed ClimateLineAir helps prevent "rainout" condensation.


4. Mask Leaks and Air Escaping

A slight leak (about 24 L/min) is normal, but more than that can reduce therapy effectiveness.

  • Refit from top to bottom -- Loosen the headgear completely, then tighten just enough for a gentle, even seal.\
  • Clean or replace cushions and headgear if they're worn or oily.
  • Try a different mask style -- for example, nasal pillows for facial hair or claustrophobia, or a full face mask for mouth breathing.
  • Add a mask liner to improve seal and comfort.

Use the built-in Mask Fit test (**+ More → Mask Fit**) to confirm a secure seal at full therapy pressure.


5. Dry Mouth or Empty Water Chamber

If your mouth is very dry, or the chamber empties each night:

  • Raise humidity gradually or enable automatic climate control if using heated tubing.\
  • Increase tube temperature one setting at a time to help air retain moisture.\
  • Consider a chin strap to keep your mouth closed if you use a nasal or pillow mask.

6. CPAP Rainout (Water in Hose or Mask)

Condensation happens when warm, moist air meets a cooler tube.

  • Use ClimateLineAir Heated Tubing or a soft tube wrap to maintain warmth.\
  • Increase tube temperature slightly in My Options.

7. Black Screen or Error Messages

A black screen usually means sleep mode---just tap to wake it. If it stays dark:

  • Confirm power connections.
  • Unplug for 60 seconds and plug back in.

Error 4: May indicate overheating. Unplug, let the machine cool for an hour, check and replace the air filter if needed, and ensure proper ventilation. Error X: Requires professional service---do not open the machine yourself.


8. Data or Prescription Settings Not Updating

If therapy data doesn't appear in MyAir or a new prescription isn't loading:

  • Verify that the serial number matches your account.
  • Make sure Airplane Mode is off (**+ More → Airplane Mode**).
  • Reboot the machine by unplugging it for 60 seconds.
  • Leave the machine on for a few hours after use to allow time for data upload.

Key Takeaways

  • Most AirSense 11 problems---humidifier quirks, leaks, app issues---are quick to solve at home.\
  • Keep supplies like replacement cushions, mask liners, and ClimateLine heated tubing on hand for smoother troubleshooting.\
  • Regular cleaning and part replacement (every 6--12 months for headgear and humidifier chambers) help prevent many common faults.

With these practical tips and the right accessories, you can keep your AirSense 11 CPAP therapy comfortable and reliable---night after night. Explore CPAP replacement parts and accessories →

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