ResMed AirSense 11 Troubleshooting Guide
Most AirSense 11 problems have simple causes — a setting that was never applied, a humidifier that isn't heating, a mask that leaks. Here's how to work through them in order, and when it's time to stop and get help.
Everyday operation, settings, connectivity and cleaning — plus what to do when the humidifier or the machine itself stops working.
Starting and Stopping Therapy
Fit your mask properly first, then press the Start therapy / Standby button — or simply breathe normally if SmartStart is enabled. The device adjusts pressure automatically and, with the humidifier running, delivers warmed and moistened air to reduce the dryness that comes with CPAP therapy. Tap the down arrow to see more detail on the screen.
During therapy the screen dims and then goes dark after a short period to save power. Tap it to bring it back. Screen brightness also responds to the light in the room via the built-in sensor. If the power is interrupted, the AirSense 11 restarts therapy automatically once power returns — you don't need to do anything.
To stop, take your mask off first, then press the Start therapy / Standby button. If SmartStop is enabled, the machine stops on its own shortly after you remove the mask.
Adjusting Pressure and Settings
To change a setting on your AirSense 11:
- Swipe up or down on the screen to open the menu options.
- Select the parameter you want to change — pressure, ramp time or humidity level.
- Tap to toggle for on/off settings such as pressure relief or aeroplane mode.
Important: if your machine was shipped directly to your home, your prescription settings may not have been applied yet. Your provider installs them remotely, which requires a wireless connection between the device and their system. Never change your minimum or maximum pressure yourself — those values come from your prescription, and altering them can compromise your therapy.
If you bought your device from CPAPeuropa.com and asked our team to configure it, the pressure, ramp time and humidity are already set. There's nothing further to adjust.
Using the AirSense 11 Without Water
The heated humidifier is included, but it isn't required for the machine to run. There are two ways to go without it:
- Keep the tub in place and switch humidification off from the My Options menu.
- Remove the tub entirely and fit the side cover in its place.
Running dry is fine for short periods — travel, for instance — but most users find the air uncomfortably dry over consecutive nights. If dryness is the reason you're considering it, adjusting the humidity level is usually the better fix.
Bluetooth and Wi-Fi Connection
Connecting via Bluetooth
- Make sure the device is set up and plugged in.
- Open the myAir app and continue through the setup.
- Follow the app's instructions to complete the pairing. The Bluetooth symbol appears in the status bar once it succeeds.
- Tap Done.
Connecting to Wi-Fi
- Start with the Bluetooth connection through the myAir app.
- Once established, your AirSense 11 becomes accessible over Wi-Fi.
With a cloud connection active, the machine downloads ResMed software updates automatically — over Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, the cellular network, or any combination of the three. If none of them are available, the machine still records your therapy data internally and uploads it when a connection returns.
Cleaning Schedule
Regular cleaning matters for both hygiene and performance. The humidifier tub, air tubing and outlet connector each need attention on their own schedule.
Daily
- Wipe the humidifier tub thoroughly with a clean, disposable cloth
- Let it dry away from direct sunlight
- Refill with fresh water — don't top up yesterday's
Weekly
- Wash the air tubing in warm water with mild dishwashing liquid
- Clean the humidifier tub and outlet connector the same way, or in a solution of 1 part vinegar to 9 parts water at room temperature
- Rinse each part thoroughly and dry away from direct sunlight or heat
- Wipe the outside of the device with a dry cloth
For the mask itself, follow the instructions in its own user guide — sealing surfaces vary between models and some cushions tolerate less than others.
The Humidifier Isn't Working
Under normal use you'd expect to refill the tub every two to three days. If the water level hasn't dropped in that time, work through it in this order:
- Check the settings first. A low humidity level, or humidification switched off entirely, is the most common explanation. Raise the level and see whether consumption changes over the next two nights.
- Check the room. In a humid bedroom the machine needs to add far less moisture, so the tub empties more slowly. This is normal behaviour, not a fault.
- If the level still doesn't move, the heating plate beneath the water chamber may not be warming. At that point the humidifier needs servicing or replacement — contact your supplier.
The Machine Isn't Working at All
Work through these steps in order before arranging a repair. Most problems resolve within the first three.
- Check the power supply. Confirm the cord is seated firmly at both the machine and the wall. Test the outlet with another device to rule it out.
- Reset the device. Disconnect the power, remove the water chamber and detach the mask. Wait at least 30 seconds, reconnect everything and power on again.
- Read any error message. If the screen shows a code, check its meaning in the user manual or on the manufacturer's site and follow the steps given there.
- Clean and inspect the components. Remove the water chamber, mask and tubing. Wash with mild soap and warm water, rinse, and let them air dry completely. Look for cracks, splits or wear while they're apart.
- Replace consumables. Check the air filter and humidifier chamber for clogging, damage or discolouration. A blocked filter is a frequent cause of reduced airflow and unusual noise.
- Check for leaks. Confirm the mask is fitted correctly and no air is escaping. Adjust the straps, and if leaks persist, try a different cushion size or mask style.
- Contact your supplier. If none of the above resolves it, get in touch — we can advise further or arrange a repair or replacement for machines bought from us.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my screen go black during the night?
Can I change my own pressure settings?
Do I have to use distilled water in the humidifier?
My machine keeps waking me with a leak alert. What should I check?
Does the AirSense 11 need Wi-Fi to work?
How often should I replace the air filter?
When to Stop and Get Help
Most AirSense 11 issues fall into three categories: a setting that isn't what you think it is, a consumable that needs replacing, or a mask that no longer seals. Those you can resolve yourself in a few minutes.
Anything involving the heating plate, an error code that persists after a reset, or unusual noise from the motor is a different matter — those need servicing. Always check the user manual supplied with your device for model-specific steps, and if you're unsure about anything, ask rather than guess.
Please note: this guide covers device operation and maintenance, not therapy decisions. Pressure settings are prescribed by your doctor or sleep specialist and should only be changed by them. If therapy feels uncomfortable, if your AHI has risen, or if you're waking unrefreshed despite consistent use, that's a clinical question rather than a technical one — speak to your provider.