Rainout / Water in Hose
Various CPAP Machine
Severity: MinorWhat Does This Error Mean?
Rainout is condensation forming inside the CPAP hose when warm humidified air meets cooler tubing. Water collects in the hose and can splash your face or gurgle. A heated hose or lowering the humidity setting fixes it.
Affected Models
- ResMed AirSense 10
- ResMed AirSense 11
- Philips DreamStation 2
- All CPAP machines with humidifiers
Common Causes
- Room temperature lower than the humidifier output temperature
- Humidity set too high
- Hose not insulated — cool air condensing the moisture
- AC or fan blowing on the hose
- No heated hose being used
How to Fix It
-
Use a heated hose (ClimateLineAir for ResMed, heated tube for others).
A heated hose keeps the air warm throughout the tube, preventing condensation. This is the most effective solution.
-
Lower the humidity setting by 1-2 levels.
Less moisture in the air = less condensation. Find the balance between comfort and rainout.
-
Run the hose under your blanket.
Your body heat warms the hose, preventing condensation. Tuck the hose under the covers alongside you.
-
Use a hose cover/insulator.
Fabric hose covers insulate the tubing. They cost $10-$15 and significantly reduce rainout.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is rainout harmful?
Not harmful, but very annoying. Water splashing your face disrupts sleep. In rare cases, inhaling water can cause coughing.
Does a heated hose use more electricity?
Minimally. A heated hose adds about 20-30 watts — roughly the same as a small night light.