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Which mask setting to choose on your CPAP device
Your device asks you to choose a mask type. This setting does not change your prescribed pressure, but it tells the machine how to interpret leaks. If it is wrong, your nightly data is distorted and comfort may suffer.
Why the setting does not always follow the mask type
Your device does not measure the shape of the mask. It measures airflow and infers the leak from it. Each mask family has its own leak profile, tied to its vent holes and to the volume of air it holds.
Some recent nasal masks, such as the AirFit N30i cradle, sit under the nose instead of covering it. Their leak profile resembles that of a pillows mask, so ResMed classifies them as Pillows. The opposite also happens: the AirFit F40 is a full face mask, yet it is set to Pillows.
That is why the table below keeps two separate columns: what your mask is, and what you need to select on the screen.
The table, model by model
These values apply to ResMed devices, in particular the AirSense 10 and AirSense 11. They come from the official compatibility list published by ResMed, and from the AirFit F40 user guide for that model.
Full face masks
| Mask | Mask type | Setting to select |
|---|---|---|
| ResMed AirFit F20 | Full face mask | Full Face |
| ResMed AirFit F20 For Her | Full face mask | Full Face |
| ResMed AirFit F30i | Full face mask | Full Face |
| ResMed AirFit F40 | Full face mask | Pillows |
| ResMed AirTouch F20 | Full face mask | Full Face |
| ResMed Mirage Quattro | Full face mask | Full Face |
Nasal masks
| Mask | Mask type | Setting to select |
|---|---|---|
| ResMed AirFit N20 | Nasal mask | Pillows |
| ResMed AirFit N30 | Nasal mask | Pillows |
| ResMed AirFit N30i | Nasal mask | Pillows |
| ResMed AirTouch N20 | Nasal mask | Pillows |
| ResMed Mirage FX | Nasal mask | Nasal |
| ResMed Mirage FX For Her | Nasal mask | Nasal |
Nasal pillows masks
| Mask | Mask type | Setting to select |
|---|---|---|
| ResMed AirFit P10 | Nasal pillows mask | Pillows |
| ResMed AirFit P10 For Her | Nasal pillows mask | Pillows |
| ResMed AirFit P30i | Nasal pillows mask | Pillows |
| ResMed Swift FX | Nasal pillows mask | Pillows |
| ResMed Swift FX For Her | Nasal pillows mask | Pillows |
Where to find this setting on your device
On the AirSense 11, you can reach it yourself from the touchscreen. Open the settings, tap Mask, choose Pillows, Full Face or Nasal, then confirm with OK.
On the AirSense 10, the path goes through the My Options menu, then Mask Type.
Remember it when you change masks. Your provider or sleep centre sets it on delivery, but nobody updates it for you afterwards.
What about masks from other brands
This table only covers ResMed masks, because they are the only ones whose setting is published. We have written to Philips, Fisher & Paykel and Löwenstein to obtain the same information for their ranges, and we will complete this page as soon as they reply.
If you use a Philips DreamStation, note that its Mask Type menu does not refer to a mask family but to a resistance number, printed on your mask packaging. It is a different system, not to be confused with the ResMed one.
Once the setting is right, check your mask seal with the mask fit test built into your device. You will find the full range on our ResMed page.
Frequently asked questions about the mask setting
No. Your prescribed pressure stays the same. This setting only helps the device interpret leaks and adjust its compensation.
Because ResMed classifies this mask by its leak profile, not by its shape. The N20 is still a nasal mask, only the device setting differs.
There is no danger and your pressure does not change. However the device misreads your leaks, so your nightly reports become less reliable.
On the touchscreen, in the settings, under Mask. You choose Pillows, Full Face or Nasal, then confirm with OK. You do not need to go through your provider.
The table currently covers ResMed masks only. We are waiting for answers from Philips, Fisher & Paykel and Löwenstein to complete it. In the meantime, ask your provider.