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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
| Form | Description | Masks concerned (examples) |
|---|---|---|
| QuietAir elbow | Connection elbow between the tube and mask, integrating the micro-perforations | AirFit F20, AirTouch F20 |
| QuietAir diffuser (vent) | Diffuser integrated into the mask body, often on top or side | AirFit N30, AirFit N30i |
| QuietAir ring (vent ring) | Diffusion ring on the mask perimeter | AirFit F40 (depending on generation) |
| Nasal pillow diffuser | Micro-perforations integrated into the nasal pillow mask body | AirFit P10, AirFit P30i |
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.
Frequently asked questions about QuietAir technology
Yes. QuietAir is a new-generation exhalation diffuser developed by ResMed to reduce sound signature and the sensation of airflow from exhalation ports. ResMed reports a significant perceived noise reduction compared with standard diffusers. In practice the mask is more discreet for the partner and more comfortable in a quiet bedroom. Perception varies but feedback is very positive on the majority of compatible masks.
This is one of the main benefits. Standard diffusers project exhaled air as a concentrated jet that can reach a partner's face or arm. QuietAir spreads that flow across a wider surface at reduced velocity, making it markedly less disturbing. If you sleep as a couple and your partner complains about the CPAP blast, this is a much-loved upgrade.
QuietAir is fitted on recent ResMed mask generations: AirFit F20, AirTouch F20, AirFit F30, AirFit F40, AirFit N20, AirFit N30 and AirFit P10. QuietAir cushions or frames carry a discreet marking on the diffusion piece. Check the exact reference when ordering replacement parts: some older references still exist without QuietAir and are not equivalent in noise.
No. The QuietAir diffuser is cleaned like any standard part: weekly wash with warm water and mild soap, air drying. Avoid abrasives or solvents. The micro-perforations must stay clear to preserve silence and exhalation flow: hardened build-up can increase noise and residual pressure. That is why regular cleaning matters.
The QuietAir diffuser follows the lifespan of the frame or cushion in which it is integrated, typically 6 to 12 months depending on use and care. When you replace the cushion, you automatically get a new diffuser. If you notice an increase in noise or a more pronounced blast without other cause, it is likely a sign of soiling or wear of the diffuser. See our CPAP mask lifespan guide.
On most recent ResMed masks, yes: the diffusion piece is built into the frame or cushion, and a QuietAir cushion is compatible with the standard frame of the same generation. Still, check the exact reference on the product page. For older masks (first-gen AirFit F20 for instance), the frame itself may not be compatible. To upgrade, the simplest is to order a QuietAir frame + cushion kit.
Marginally. ResMed integrated QuietAir as standard across recent ranges without significant launch premium. When you buy today, you get QuietAir by default on AirFit F20, F30, F40, N20, N30 and P10 cushions. The investment is well worth it: noise comfort and partner sleep quality are noticeably improved.