ResMed CPAP High Leak Detected: How to Fix Mask and Air Leaks
Quick Answer
ResMed AirSense 10 and 11 devices trigger the High Leak warning when unintentional mask leak exceeds roughly 24 liters per minute for a sustained period during therapy. This is almost always a mask fit issue rather than a device problem. The most common causes are a worn mask cushion that has lost its seal, incorrect headgear strap tension, sleeping position shifting the mask, and mouth breathing with a nasal mask.
ResMed AirSense 10 and 11 devices trigger the High Leak warning when unintentional mask leak exceeds roughly 24 liters per minute for a sustained period during therapy. This is almost always a mask fit issue rather than a device problem. The most common causes are a worn mask cushion that has lost its seal, incorrect headgear strap tension, sleeping position shifting the mask, and mouth breathing with a nasal mask. The fix sequence is straightforward: clean and inspect the cushion, run the built-in mask fit test, adjust strap tension, and if leaks persist, try a different cushion size or mask type.
What Does the HIGH-LEAK Code Mean?
High Leak means your mask is leaking more than 24 L/min. This is usually a mask fit issue - check cushion condition, headgear tension, and consider a different mask size or type.
Most Likely Causes
Based on aggregated repair data, here is the probability breakdown for this error code:
Symptoms You May Notice
- High Leak warning on device screen
- Air blowing into eyes from mask top
- Whistling sound from mask during therapy
- Dry eyes in the morning
- myAir app showing high leak rate
- Waking with mask displaced from face
Can you reset a Resmed cpap to clear the HIGH-LEAK code?
AirSense 10: Settings > Device > Reset Device. AirSense 11: My Device > Factory Reset. A reset clears stored leak data but does not fix the physical leak source. Focus on mask fit and cushion condition rather than resetting.
Tools Required for Diagnosis
Diagnostic Checklist
Follow these steps in order. We start with the easiest external fixes before opening up the machine.
Clean the mask cushion with warm water and mild soap
Clean the mask cushion with warm water and mild soap. Oil from your skin reduces the silicone's ability to seal. Let it air dry completely. Inspect the cushion for cracks, tears, or areas that have become stiff and shiny.
Put on the mask and run the built-in mask fit test on the AirSense
If you use a nasal mask or nasal pillows and the myAir app shows
Check all tubing connections
Replacement Parts
If your diagnostic testing proves the component has failed, you will need a replacement. We recommend OEM parts over aftermarket for water-handling components.
| Part Name | OEM Number | Estimated Price |
|---|---|---|
| ResMed mask cushion (model-specific replacement)N/A · $0–$0 | N/A | $0 – $0 |
| ResMed headgear strapsN/A · $0–$0 | N/A | $0 – $0 |
| ResMed CPAP chin strapN/A · $0–$0 | N/A | $0 – $0 |
| ResMed ClimateLineAir Heated TubingN/A · $0–$0 | N/A | $0 – $0 |
Repair vs. Replace Calculator
Frequently Asked Questions
What leak rate is normal on a ResMed CPAP?
Why does my leak only happen during the night?
Can high leak damage my CPAP machine?
Related Resmed Cpap Error Codes
Models Known to Experience HIGH-LEAK 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, AirCurve 10 VAuto, AirCurve 10 ST
Last verified for technical accuracy on March 15, 2026