ResMed QuietAir: silent CPAP mask technology explained

QuietAir™ is a ResMed technology found on certain CPAP masks. It is integrated into the elbow or diffuser of the mask and converts the intentional exhaled air leak into a multi-directional, quiet airflow - for you and your bed partner.

On this page, we explain how QuietAir works, which masks feature it, and how to choose a compatible mask for your profile.

• The intentional leak: a misunderstood principle
• How does QuietAir work?
• Benefits of QuietAir
• The different forms of QuietAir
• QuietAir-compatible ResMed masks
• Which QuietAir mask should you choose?
• QuietAir diffuser maintenance

The intentional leak: a fundamental principle of CPAP masks

Every CPAP mask has an intentional leak - also called a "vent", "diffuser" or "exhalation port". This is not a manufacturing defect: it is a mandatory and essential system to flush out exhaled CO₂ and ensure treatment effectiveness.

Without this leak, you would re-breathe your own CO₂ in a loop - making the treatment ineffective and potentially dangerous.

The difference between masks lies in how this leak is managed:

• With a standard vent: exhaled air often exits as a concentrated jet, generating noise and a perceptible air draft.
• With QuietAir™: air is diffused through multiple micro-openings over a wider surface, breaking up the flow and making it more discreet.

How does QuietAir work?

QuietAir technology is based on the principle of multidirectional diffusion. Rather than one or a few exhaust openings, the QuietAir elbow or diffuser features hundreds of micro-perforations distributed across a circular surface.

When you exhale, air does not escape as a single jet but disperses into many fine micro-flows in multiple directions. This produces two effects:

• Noise reduction: the airflow is broken up before reaching ambient air, reducing exhalation noise. Some models achieve levels around 27 dBA measured with QuietAir.
• Elimination of direct air draft: exhaled air no longer forms a directed jet toward the outside (toward the face or partner), but dissipates diffusely.

Benefits of QuietAir for CPAP users

For you

• Quieter night-time experience at mask level.
• Less sensation of "airflow" against the face, especially in lateral position.
• Greater overall discretion for people sensitive to sound stimuli during sleep.

For your partner

• The exhaled air jet no longer blows toward a partner lying nearby.
• Reduced mask noise perceived from the other side of the bed.
• Improved nighttime cohabitation, often cited as a reason for treatment abandonment.

The different forms of QuietAir on ResMed masks

QuietAir-compatible ResMed masks available at VivaRespire

Full face masks

• ResMed AirFit F20 - ResMed's most popular full face mask. QuietAir elbow available depending on version. Silicone cushion, magnetic headgear adjustment. Suitable for most face types.
• ResMed AirTouch F20 - Premium version of the F20 with UltraSoft memory foam cushion. Typically includes a QuietAir elbow. Recommended for sensitive skin and patients experiencing redness with silicone cushions.
• ResMed AirFit F40 - Compact next-generation full face mask with a minimal cushion positioned under the nose. Integrates a QuietAir vent ring. Ultra-discreet design for patients who feel confined in traditional full face masks.

Nasal pillows masks

• ResMed AirFit P10 - Ultra-lightweight nasal pillows mask (under 45 g). Integrated QuietAir diffuser. Ideal for patients who reject any face frame, those who read or watch TV before sleeping, or restless sleepers.

See also our full selection of CPAP masks. To understand which mask type matches your profile, see our guide on how to choose a CPAP mask.

Which QuietAir mask should you choose?

You breathe through your mouth or your mouth opens at night

Choose a full face mask with a QuietAir elbow: the AirFit F20 or AirTouch F20. These masks cover both nose and mouth, eliminating oral leaks.

You find full face masks bulky

The AirFit F40 is a compact full face mask with a cushion positioned under the nose - more discreet, with an integrated QuietAir benefit.

You breathe exclusively through your nose and move a lot at night

The AirFit P10 is ResMed's lightest nasal pillows mask. With its QuietAir diffuser, it remains discreet even during nighttime movements. The silicone pillows adapt to different nostril sizes.

Your partner complains about the air draft

All QuietAir-equipped masks reduce the exhaled air jet. If the main concern is air blowing toward your partner, also check the diffuser orientation relative to your usual sleep position.

QuietAir diffuser maintenance

The micro-perforations of the QuietAir diffuser can become blocked over time with skin residues, sebum or cleaning detergent. Regular maintenance is essential to maintain acoustic performance.

Daily cleaning

• Clean the elbow or diffuser with warm water and a mild soap.
• Rinse thoroughly to remove any soap residue from the micro-perforations.
• Air dry - avoid rubbing with a cloth that could block the openings.

Replacement

QuietAir elbows and diffusers are available as separate spare parts. ResMed generally recommends replacing them every 6 to 12 months depending on wear. If your mask noise level gradually increases, this is often a sign that the diffuser needs replacing.