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ErrBase

ResMed CPAP Error 13: High Pressure Relief on AirSense 10

Quick Answer

ResMed Error 13 is a high-pressure relief code specific to the AirSense 10's pressure regulation subsystem. The AirSense 10 and AirSense 11 operate within a pressure range of 4-20 cmH2O, and the devices include a software pressure cap and hardware relief to prevent over-pressurization. Error 13 fires when measured pressure significantly exceeds the target or when the relief mechanism activates unexpectedly.

ResMed Error 13 is a high-pressure relief code specific to the AirSense 10's pressure regulation subsystem. The AirSense 10 and AirSense 11 operate within a pressure range of 4-20 cmH2O, and the devices include a software pressure cap and hardware relief to prevent over-pressurization. Error 13 fires when measured pressure significantly exceeds the target or when the relief mechanism activates unexpectedly. This can occur from a blocked air outlet (mask port) with no mask attached during a test run, from a malfunctioning pressure transducer giving false high readings, or from a motor running in an over-speed condition. Because this error involves the pressure regulation circuit, it should not be ignored - over-pressurization can be uncomfortable and in rare cases cause barotrauma if therapy is continued. Factory reset is the first user step; persistent Error 13 requires DME or ResMed service.

ResmedCpapSeverity: high40% DIY Success
Time to Fix
10–30 min
Difficulty
beginner
Parts Cost
—
Tools Needed
Soft dry cloth, CPAP cleaning wipes

What Does the 13 Code Mean?

Error 13 is a high pressure relief activation - the device detected or caused an unsafe pressure condition. Reset first, then contact your DME if it persists.

Most Likely Causes

Based on aggregated repair data, here is the probability breakdown for this error code:

Pressure sensor malfunction giving false high readings40%
Motor controller fault driving motor at over-speed24%
Air outlet blocked during device self-test14%
Water entering pressure transducer from humidifier overfill12%
Firmware error in pressure algorithm10%

Symptoms You May Notice

  • Error 13 displayed during or after therapy
  • Therapy terminated abruptly mid-session
  • Device feels like it is blowing much harder than normal
  • Pressure appears to spike unexpectedly during the night
  • Device beeps and stops during startup

Can you reset a Resmed cpap to clear the 13 code?

AirSense 10: hold the home button for 5 seconds, navigate to Settings > Device > Reset Device. AirSense 11: Settings > My Options > Device Options > Reset.

Tools Required for Diagnosis

Soft dry clothCPAP cleaning wipes

Diagnostic Checklist

Follow these steps in order. We start with the easiest external fixes before opening up the machine.

1

Check the water chamber in the HumidAir humidifier

Check the water chamber in the HumidAir humidifier. Remove it and confirm the water level does not exceed the MAX fill line when in normal use. Empty any excess water and dry the chamber. Overfilling is the most preventable cause of moisture entering the pressure transducer.

2

Unplug the device for 60 seconds

3

Perform a factory reset. AirSense 10

4

If Error 13 persists after reset

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I damage my lungs if my CPAP shows Error 13 and I keep using it?
Continued use of a device with a confirmed pressure sensor fault is not recommended. If the sensor is reading incorrectly, the device may deliver more or less pressure than your prescription requires. While a single session is unlikely to cause permanent damage, regularly over-pressurized CPAP therapy can cause aerophagia (uncomfortable air swallowing) and in very rare cases at extreme pressures, barotrauma. Stop using the device for therapy and contact your DME provider.
What is the maximum safe pressure for a ResMed AirSense 10?
The AirSense 10 operates between 4 and 20 cmH2O. Prescriptions are set within this range by your sleep specialist. The device has both software and hardware pressure limits that prevent operation above 20 cmH2O. Error 13 fires when the measured pressure approaches or exceeds these upper limits unexpectedly - even within the normal pressure range, a sudden spike above target triggers the relief mechanism.
Does overfilling the water chamber always cause Error 13?
Not always, but it is one preventable cause. When the water chamber is overfilled, tilting or moving the device can cause water to enter the air pathway and reach the pressure transducer, corrupting its readings. Always fill the HumidAir chamber to the MAX line only, and never move the device while it has water in the chamber.

Related Resmed Cpap Error Codes

Code: HUBResMed CPAP Error Codes: Complete AirSense 10 and 11 Fault GuideCode: 12ResMed CPAP Error 12: Motor Fault on AirSense 10 and AirSense 11Code: 24ResMed CPAP Error 24: Climate Control Fault on AirSense 10Code: PRESSURE-HIGHResMed CPAP Pressure Too High: Fix High Pressure Discomfort

Models Known to Experience 13 Errors

This repair applies to most Resmed cpaps with this error code. Common model numbers include:

AirSense 10 AutoSet, AirSense 10 CPAP, AirSense 10 Elite, AirSense 10 For Her, AirSense 11 AutoSet

Last verified for technical accuracy on March 15, 2026