CPAP Error Codes: ResMed, Philips & BMC —What They Mean and How to Fix Them
- Amit Verma
- Dec 4, 2024
- 7 min read
Updated: 7 days ago
Woke up to an error code on your CPAP machine? Don't panic. Most CPAP error codes fall into three categories: something you can fix yourself in 2 minutes, something that needs a reset, and something that needs a service call. This guide covers all major error codes for ResMed AirSense 10, AirSense 11, Philips DreamStation, and BMC CPAP machines — so you know exactly what to do.
Quick Reference: What to Try First (Before Looking Up Your Code)
Before diving into brand-specific codes, try these steps — they fix 40% of CPAP errors:
Unplug the machine from the wall — wait 30 seconds — plug back in
Check the power cable — ensure it's fully seated at both ends
Check the air filter — a clogged filter causes motor errors on all brands
Check the tubing — ensure it's firmly connected to both machine and mask
Check the water chamber — overfilled or misaligned chambers cause humidity errors
■ If the error persists after these 5 steps, scroll down to find your specific brand and code below.
ResMed AirSense 10 & AirSense 11 Error Codes
ResMed displays errors as E-codes (e.g. E-87) or plain-text alerts on screen. Here are the most common:
Error Code | What It Means | What To Do |
E-87 | Motor failed to start, or motor hardware fault | Unplug for 30 sec, replug. If repeated → do not use. Contact service. |
E-100 | Internal system error | Unplug 30 sec, replug. If it persists → service required. |
E-101 | Motor speed out of range | Power cycle. Check that the filter is clean. If it persists → service. |
E-102 | Motor failed to reach operating speed | Power cycle. If repeated → motor likely needs replacement. |
E-103 | Motor overheating | Ensure the machine is in a ventilated area. Check the filter for blockage. Allow to cool 20 min. |
Check Filter | Air filter blocked or missing | Clean the foam filter or replace the disposable filter. |
Check Mask | Mask leak detected above threshold | Re-seat mask, check headgear tension, check cushion wear. |
Check Tubing | Tube not connected or leaking | Check the tube at the machine and the mask. Inspect for cracks or holes. |
Leak Rate High | Ongoing mask or tube leak | Adjust mask fit, try a different cushion size, check tube connection. |
Humid Alert | Water chamber issue | Re-seat the chamber, ensure not overfilled, and check for cracks. |
ResMed AirSense 11 — Additional Alerts
"Service Required" — Internal fault. Do not attempt to fix yourself. Contact ResMed or your provider.
"Unplug and Replug" — Soft reset needed. Safe to do at home.
"Replace Filter" — Reminder alert (not a fault). Replace the ultra-fine filter.
"Low Voltage" — Power supply issue. Check cable, check wall outlet voltage.
■ E-87 on ResMed is a hardware fault. Do not continue using the machine if E-87 keeps returning after a reset — the motor may be damaged, and therapy will not be delivered correctly.
Philips DreamStation & DreamStation 2 Error Codes
Philips uses F-codes (hardware faults) and E-codes (non-critical errors). F-codes are serious — E-codes are usually fixable at home.
Error Code | What It Means | What To Do |
F001 | System/algorithm controller fault | Power cycle. If it persists → service required. |
F003 | Flow sensor calibration failure | Power cycle. If it persists → service. |
F005 | Pressure transducer fault | Power cycle. If it persists → service. |
F006 | Data acquisition fault | Power cycle. If it persists → service. |
F010 | Blower/motor fault — most common F-code | Do not use. Contact the service immediately. |
F011 | Motor overheating | Move the machine to a ventilated area, check the filter, and allow it to cool. If repeats → service. |
E-87 | Non-critical motor alert | Power cycle. Monitor. If frequent → schedule service. |
Leak Detection | Mask seal or tube leak | Refit mask, check tube connections. |
Replace Filter | Filter reminder | Replace the disposable filter (every 30 days). |
Humidifier Fault | Chamber not seated or damaged | Remove and re-seat the chamber. Check for cracks. |
Philips DreamStation 2 Specific Alerts
"Attention Required" — Check the app or display for more details. Usually, a leak or filter alert.
"Device Needs Service" — Hardware fault. Do not use. Contact Philips or your provider.
■ Many Philips DreamStation Gen 1 machines were part of the 2021 global recall. If your machine is a DreamStation aGen 1, check the serial number against the Philips recall list before using.
BMC CPAP & BiPAP Error Codes (GII, RESmart, Luna Series)
BMC machines — popular in India due to affordability — display E-codes numbered E01–E09:
Error Code | What It Means | What To Do |
E01 | Motor fault/motor failed to start | Power cycle. Check filter. If it persists → do not use. Contact service. |
E02 | Pressure sensor fault | Power cycle. If it persists → requires calibration by a technician. |
E03 | Flow sensor fault | Power cycle. If it persists → service required. |
E04 | Power supply fault | Check the power cable and adapter. Try a different wall outlet. |
E05 | Temperature / overheating fault | Allow the machine to cool in a ventilated area. Check filter. |
E06 | Humidifier fault | Check water chamber is seated correctly. Ensure not overfilled. |
E07 | Communication error between motor and controller | Power cycle. If it persists → service. |
Mask Leak | Leak rate too high | Adjust mask fit, check headgear, check tubing connection. |
Filter Alert | Filter requires cleaning or replacement | Clean reusable filter with water, dry completely before replacing. |
■ BMC Tip: BMC RESmart machines often trigger E01 when the filter is heavily clogged. Always clean the filter first before assuming motor failure.
My CPAP Won't Turn On — What Do I Check?
If there's no error code but the machine simply won't power on, work through these steps:
Step 1 — Check the power supply
Is the power cable plugged in fully at both ends? Try a different wall socket. Check if the socket is live by plugging in a phone charger.
Step 2 — Check the adapter
CPAP machines use a specific voltage adapter (12V or 24V, depending on brand). If the adapter is warm/hot to the touch, it may have failed. Using the wrong voltage adapter can permanently damage your machine.
Step 3 — Check for water damage
Has the humidifier overflowed into the machine? Water inside the device will prevent it from powering on. Do NOT force it to start — allow to dry completely (24–48 hours).
Step 4 — Check for physical damage
Any cracks, dents, or signs of drop damage? Has it been stored in extreme heat (e.g., a car in summer)? Heat exposure can damage the power board.
■ If none of the above resolves it, the machine's internal fuse or power board may have failed. This is a service repair, not a home fix.
When to Call for Service vs When to Fix Yourself
Situation | Fix Yourself? | Call Service? |
Mask leak / Check Mask alert | Yes | — |
Filter alert / dirty filter | Yes | — |
Machine overheating (one-off) | Try cooling first | Only if it repeats |
Humidifier not seated | Yes | — |
Power cable issue | Check cable/outlet | If the cable is damaged |
E-87 (ResMed) — first occurrence | Try a power cycle | If it returns |
E-87 (ResMed) — recurring | — | Yes |
F010 (Philips) motor fault | — | Immediately |
E01 (BMC) after filter check | — | Yes |
The machine won't power on | Check cable/adapter | If persists |
"Service Required" message | — | Immediately |
Burning smell from the machine | Stop using now | Immediately |
How Long Does CPAP Repair Take?
Item | Detail |
Diagnosis | 1–2 working days |
Motor replacement (most common repair) | 3–5 working days |
Complete service | 5–7 working days |
ResMed warranty | 2 years — may cover full repair cost |
Philips warranty | 2 years — may cover full repair cost |
BMC warranty | 1–2 years — check your warranty card |
■ Don't want to wait? Consider renting a CPAP or BiPAP machine while yours is being serviced — so your therapy doesn't get interrupted. Healthy Jeena Sikho provides same-day rental delivery.
FAQs — CPAP Error Codes
Q1. Is it safe to use my CPAP machine if it's showing an error code?
It depends on the code. Mask leak alerts and filter reminders are safe to address at home, and use continues. Motor fault codes (E-87, F010, E01) mean the machine is not delivering correct therapy — do not use until serviced.
Q2. Will resetting my CPAP machine clear the error code permanently?
A power cycle clears soft errors caused by a one-time glitch. If the same error returns within a few days, the underlying hardware problem hasn't been resolved and needs professional attention.
Q3. My ResMed shows E-87 every few weeks, but works fine in between — should I worry?
Yes. Intermittent E-87 means the motor is struggling. It will eventually fail completely. Get it serviced before that happens — a complete motor failure mid-night is far more disruptive than a scheduled repair.
Q4. My CPAP error code isn't listed here — what do I do?
Take a photo of the error message and contact your machine provider or the brand's India service line. ResMed: 1800-103-0670. Philips: 1860-180-1111. BMC: contact your dealer.
Q5. Can a CPAP error code damage my therapy data?
In most cases, no — therapy data is stored separately from the motor. After a major error event, sync your ResMed myAir or Philips DreamMapper app to confirm your recent data is intact.
Q6. How often should I service my CPAP machine to avoid error codes?
Annual preventive servicing is recommended for all brands. Clean or replace the filter monthly. Clean the water chamber weekly. Replace tubing every 6–12 months.
Related Guides on Healthy Jeena Sikho
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