Disclosed is an apparatus for delivering breathable gas to a patient. The apparatus comprises a flow generator (22), a humidifier chamber (1), a first flow path (10), a second flow path (4) and a heating element (12). The flow generator (22) generates a flow of breathable gas. The humidifier chamber (1) contains a supply of water (13). The first flow path (10) delivers the flow of breathable gas from the flow generator (22) to the humidifier chamber (1). The second flow path (4) delivers the flow of breathable gas from the humidifier chamber (1) to a patient interface (5). The heating element (12) extends through the first flow path (10), the humidifier chamber (1) and into the second flow path (4).