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Your CPAP water chamber plays a big role in keeping therapy comfortable. But when it becomes cloudy, smells strange, leaks, or runs dry overnight, it can quickly become frustrating. The good news? Most CPAP water chamber problems have simple solutions — and many require just a quick cleaning or setting adjustment.
This guide covers the most common issues and how to fix them fast.
1. Cloudy Water in the Humidifier Chamber
Cloudiness usually comes from **mineral buildup**, especially if you use tap water.
Fixes:
- Use distilled water only (prevents mineral deposits)
- Soak chamber in a 1:1 vinegar + water solution for 15–20 minutes
- Rinse thoroughly and air dry
CPAP Cleaning Wipes / Cleaning Guide
If cloudiness stays even after cleaning, the plastic may be permanently etched — time to replace it.
2. Water Chamber Smells Bad
Odors can come from minerals, old stagnant water, or bacteria.
Fixes:
- Empty the chamber every morning
- Let it air-dry fully — never store it with water inside
- Clean with mild soap daily
- Use vinegar soak weekly
A persistent smell usually means the plastic has absorbed odor molecules → replace the chamber.
3. Water Running Out Overnight
If your tank empties too fast, humidity is set too high for your environment.
Fixes:
- Lower humidity 1–2 levels
- Use heated tubing (reduces evaporative loss)
- Raise room temperature slightly
4. Water Leaking from the Chamber
Leaks can come from cracks, worn seals, or improper assembly.
Fixes:
- Check for hairline cracks while holding it under light
- Inspect the silicone seal (replace if stretched or torn)
- Make sure the lid snaps firmly shut
- Ensure the chamber is seated fully in the CPAP machine
If you find even a tiny crack → replace the chamber immediately.
5. Water Spitting or Gurgling Into the Mask
This is usually **rainout** — condensation forming in the hose.
Fixes:
- Lower humidity slightly
- Use heated tubing
- Keep hose elevated above your head
- Use a hose cover for insulation
Related: How to Stop CPAP Rainout
6. Pink or Orange Slimy Film Inside Chamber
This is typically **Serratia bacteria** — common in moist environments.
Fix immediately:
- Wash with mild soap
- Soak in vinegar for 20–30 minutes
- Air dry completely every day
If slime returns quickly → replace the chamber.
7. White Crystals or Scale Buildup
Minerals form crystals when tap water evaporates.
Fix: Vinegar soak or switch to distilled water only.
8. Overfilling the Chamber
Too much water can splash into the tubing or cause internal leaks.
Fix: Always fill exactly to the MAX line, not above it.
If your chamber doesn’t have a clear fill line, stop when the water reaches ~¾ full.
9. Chamber Doesn’t Click or Seat Properly
If misaligned, the machine may be noisy or leak humidified air internally.
Fix:
- Slide the chamber straight in until you hear a click
- Make sure no debris or mineral buildup is on the insertion rails
- Inspect for bent metal rails if using a Respironics unit
10. Water Chamber Not Heating Correctly
If water stays cold, humidity won’t work well.
Fixes:
- Ensure the humidifier setting isn’t set to OFF
- Clean the metal heating plate under the chamber
- Test with a different chamber to rule out a defective tank
If the heating plate on the CPAP machine itself malfunctions, contact your provider.
Summary: Quick Fixes for CPAP Water Chamber Problems
- Use distilled water to prevent cloudiness
- Empty and air-dry the chamber daily
- Lower humidity if running out of water
- Use heated tubing to prevent condensation
- Replace cracked or smelly chambers
- Clean with vinegar weekly
Final Thoughts
Most CPAP water chamber issues—cloudiness, strange smells, or overfilling—come from simple maintenance problems. With the right cleaning routine and a few small adjustments, your humidifier will stay fresh, safe, and comfortable every night.
Explore more CPAP troubleshooting guides: