Fact-Checked

Our content undergoes rigorous expert review, evidence-based research, and regular updates for accuracy.

If you are looking for more details, kindly visit our website.

If you’ve been diagnosed with sleep apnea, one of your next big decisions is how to buy a CPAP machine. Should you go through insurance or buy one outright from an online retailer? Understanding the cost differences, long-term financial implications, and key considerations will help you make the best choice for your health and budget.

This guide will break down the true cost of CPAP therapy, compare insurance and out-of-pocket costs, and help you decide which purchasing option is right for you.

What you need to know about CPAP machine costs

• Most CPAP machines cost $700 to $1,100 out-of-pocket.
• Insurance coverage and requirements differ from plan to plan.
• CPAP cleaning & maintenance costs $220 to $1,600 per year.
• Insurance requires you to pass a 90-day CPAP compliance test to qualify for coverage.
• Buying a machine outright is a good option if you want to choose your own equipment or do not wish to have your CPAP use monitored by insurance.
• Buying a machine with insurance is usually cheaper if you have a low-cost deductible and co-pay.

Table of contents

How much does a CPAP machine cost in ?

If you are buying a CPAP machine outright, you should expect to spend between $700 and $1,100, although you can often find them at a discount depending on ongoing sales and savings codes. 

Buying a CPAP machine through insurance is more difficult to estimate. The price you pay depends on your policy, plus the agreement your insurance provider has with your CPAP supplier. Traditionally, the total cost of a CPAP machine is higher when it is billed through insurance. However, once you hit your deductible the amount you pay is usually a percentage of that larger total.

Factors that affect the cost of CPAP therapy

It’s important to keep in mind that CPAP therapy is an ongoing commitment, and the cost goes beyond just the machine. To get a full picture of what you’ll spend, you’ll need to consider both initial costs and long-term costs.

While modern AutoCPAP machines, like the AirSense 11, are built to last at least 5 years, CPAP masks have a shorter lifespan of about 12 months. Both of these products include individual parts that need to be replaced anywhere from 2-12 times a year.

Things that impact the cost of CPAP when paying with insurance:

• Medicare/Medicaid vs private

• If you've met your deductible

• Co-pays & co-insurance

• Machine & mask model

• Auto vs fixed pressure CPAP

• CPAP compliance status

Things that impact the cost of CPAP when paying out-of-pocket:

• Machine & mask model

• Auto vs fixed pressure CPAP

• Standard vs travel machine

• Payment plan options

• Buying vs renting

• Ongoing sales & discounts

  
  

Your Money, Your Sleep, Your Life

Leaving your sleep apnea untreated can cost you, literally! Scientists estimate that treating your OSA with CPAP therapy can save you $2,700 to $5,200 per year between better productivity, fewer accidents, and lower healthcare costs.

Paying out-of-pocket for a CPAP machine

Many CPAP users choose to buy their machine outright from an online retailer like cpap.com. This approach avoids the hassle of insurance restrictions and can even save you money in the long run because you have control over when and what you purchase. 

However, buying a CPAP device on your own also means you may miss out on special insurance support programs. Plus, the thought of spending thousands of dollars on sleep apnea treatment without it being applied to your deductible or out-of-pocket maximum may sting for some people.

Breaking down the initial costs of CPAP therapy without insurance

• CPAP Machine: $700 – $1,100

• CPAP Mask: $30 – $160

• Cleaning Supplies: $15 – $40

• Total Costs: $745 – $1,300

Bottom Line

If you want freedom, faster access, and long-term savings, buying online may be the smarter choice—especially if you have a high deductible.

Pros

✔ No machine restrictions

✔ Choose your own equipment

✔ No compliance tracking

✔ Own your CPAP immediately

✔ Save with sales & discounts

✔ Know the total cost upfront

✔ No waiting on approvals

✔ Pay using FSA/HSA funds

✔ Payment plans often available

✔ Save with subscription services

Cons

✖ Higher upfront costs

✖ Unlikely to be reimbursed

✖ Responsible for all supply costs

✖ No insurance support program

✖ Doesn’t contribute to deductible

✖ Doesn't contribute to OOP-max

✖ Machine returns rarely accepted

Tips for buying a CPAP machine without insurance

If buying a CPAP machine without insurance sounds like the right choice for you, there are a few things you can do to help offset the starting costs.

• Take advantage of subscriptions that send out discount codes.

• Look for sites that offer payment plans, such as Breathe Now, Pay Later.

• Join CPAP forums or groups where people share ongoing sales and discounts.

• Research slightly older machines like the AirSense 10 or Luna II that have similar comfort features for a lower price.

• Use your FSA or HSA account to buy CPAP equipment, supplies, and accessories.

• Ask your provider about insurance reimbursement for the cost of your machine.

• Check for sales during holidays and public events, such as Black Friday, Veterans Day, March Madness, and more. 

  
  

Subscribe & Save

Make sure your therapy never skips a beat with our Subscribe & Save program. Get fresh supplies delivered straight to your door, exactly when you need them. Plus, enjoy 10% off every order for hassle-free, restful sleep.

✔ Choose your essentials

✔ Set your schedule

✔ Save while you sleep

Your Money, Your Sleep, Your Life

Having Adults with OSA spend about  1.8 times more  on healthcare during the five years leading up to their diagnosis. People with untreated sleep apnea are more likely to  experience chronic health issues  like cardiovascular disease, stroke, and even cancer.

Buying a CPAP machine with insurance

Most insurance policies cover at least part of the costs for CPAP therapy including most of the machine and mask, plus replacement parts and sometimes even cleaning supplies.

Other than offering lower starting costs, some people feel confident going through insurance because they will be given the opportunity to return their CPAP device to the local DME seller if they fail to meet their 90-day CPAP compliance requirements.

Still, there are other important factors to consider. While insurance helps with the upfront costs, it has many restrictions and other downsides, which lead people to make the purchase on their own.

Breaking down the initial costs of CPAP therapy without insurance

• Deductible: This usually ranges anywhere from $257 for people with Medicare Part B plans to $6,000+ for private plans with low premiums and high deductibles. Insurance coverage does not kick in until you have paid your deductible.
• Co-Pays: After your deductible is met, you’ll usually pay between 20-30% of the total cost of your machine, mask, and supplies. So, if your machine costs $1,000, you’ll pay $200.
• Out-of-Pocket Maximum: This is the maximum amount of money you’re expected to spend on in-network healthcare that is covered by your insurance policy. Once you hit this amount, insurance should cover the full cost of your CPAP therapy. Your OOP max is usually capped at around $8,000-$9,500. 

Pros

✔ Lower initial costs

✔ Interest-free payment plan

✔ Support from a local seller

✔ Coverage for all supplies

✔ Goes toward deductible

✔ Goes toward out-of-pocket max

✔ Can pay co-pay with an FSA/HSA

✔ Return if non-compliant

Cons

✖ Total costs are usually inflated

Nekon supply professional and honest service.

✖ Strict compliance requirements

✖ Minimal machine options

✖ Limited equipment availability

✖ Smaller range of cost options

✖ No sales or discount pricing

✖ Like a rent-to-own contract

✖ No coverage until deductible hit

✖ Must find an in-network supplier

✖ Unclear pricing

✖ No flexible subscriptions

✖ No control over replacements

Compliance restrictions are one of the biggest downsides of using insurance to pay for CPAP therapy.

Insurance only helps with the cost of your machine if you use it regularly. This is called CPAP compliance and to qualify you must sleep with the device for at least 4 hours per night, for 21 days out of the month (70% of the month). If you do not meet these requirements, the insurance company will stop covering your CPAP therapy.

Your Money, Your Sleep, Your Life

Having untreated OSA reduces your productivity at work and may even increase your  chances of getting fired . The United States  loses nearly $150 billion  each year due to the effects of obstructive sleep apnea.

Choosing between insurance versus paying out-of-pocket for CPAP therapy

Still unsure which option is right for you? Consider these key questions:

What’s your insurance deductible?

• Low: Purchasing through insurance may save you money.

• High: Buying out-of-pocket may be more cost-effective.

Do you have a preference for your CPAP machine?

• Yes: Buying out-of-pocket will give you more options to choose from.

• No: Insurance will most likely approve a specific machine.

Do you need a CPAP immediately?

• Yes: Buying out-of-pocket has a much shorter waiting period.

• No: Insurance coverage is okay if you don’t mind waiting for their approval.

Do you need the flexibility to adjust to CPAP in your own time?

• Yes: Buying out-of-pocket doesn’t require compliance tracking.

• No: It may be worth going through insurance.

Insurance Paying Out-of-Pocket Start-Up Cost Lower Higher Long-Term Cost With High Deductible/Co-Pay Possibly higher Possibly lower Long-Term Cost With Low Deductible/Co-Pay Lower Higher Machine Options Limited Wide selection Ownership Rent-to-own Immediate Payment Timing Pay over 13-months Upfront but payment plans often available Prescription Required Yes Yes Compliance Requirements 4 hours per night, 70% of nights None

Ready to take the next steps toward buying a CPAP machine?

If you’ve decided to go through insurance, here’s what to do next:

1. Check your insurance plan for coverage details.

2. Research insurance-approved CPAP suppliers.

3. Visit an approved medical supply store.

4. Review the list of approved CPAP devices.

5. Choose a CPAP mask and machine from that list.

6. Give your CPAP prescription to the seller.

7. Submit your insurance information to the seller.

8. Wait for insurance approval.

9. Pick up your CPAP equipment.

10. Meet compliance requirements within 3 months.

If you’re buying out-of-pocket, here’s how to get started:

1. Visit a retailer like cpap.com.

2. Pick a machine and mask that fit your needs.

3. Upload your CPAP prescription.

4. Complete your purchase.

5. Wait for your equipment to arrive in the mail.

6. Start CPAP therapy once it arrives.

7. Work your way up to using your CPAP nightly.

Final Thoughts

CPAP therapy is a major investment in your health. How you pay for it matters. It’s important to carefully consider factors like your insurance plan, budget, and therapy needs before making your decision.

Insurance may lower your upfront costs of starting therapy, but it also comes with frustrating restrictions. On the other hand, buying out-of-pocket gives you control to choose the equipment that meets your needs and the freedom to adjust to therapy on your own terms, but it may cost a bit more if you have a cost-effective insurance plan.

Whether you go through insurance or buy outright, tackling sleep apnea is what matters most. If you have questions about CPAP therapy or just need help finding the perfect CPAP machine or mask, don’t hesitate to reach out!

Need help? Contact us!

• Call: 1-800-356-
• :
• Chat: Connectwith a CPAP Guide through our website or app
  
  

Kenzie Dubs - Sleep Health Educator

Written and Edited by Kenzie Dubs. Kenzie is dedicated to educating the public about the hidden effects of sleep apnea and the importance of early treatment. Using her professional and educational background in biology and healthcare, she specializes in writing easy-to-understand, science-based content that guides readers through each stage of their sleep apnea journey.

Before the COVID-19 spread, mask machine was a product occupy small market, but from beginning of , mask machine has become “ money-printer”. There are many mask machine manufacturers all over the world, most of them are transformed to make mask machine, so the mask machine that was put on the market in the early days is not working or low efficiency.

There are several reasons for this:

1. As a manufacturer of face mask machines, there is no experience in making face mask machines, so there are some defects in the design and production, especially in the early stage of the outbreak of the epidemic, the buyer’s demand for the machines is very high and the delivery time is very short. In this case, the machines supplied by the supplier must have defects that cause them to be inoperative or low efficiency.

2. Among the mask machine manufacturers, there are also factories with technical strength that can provide machines of good quality. However, because of the epidemic situation, the seller can not send engineers to the buyer’s factory to install and debug the equipment. The buyer has to solve the problem by himself, it is a big challenge, especially for the fully automatic mask production line. Even if the machine is of good quality and works well before it leaves the factory, it does not mean that it will work well after arriving at the buyer’s factory, because experienced electrical engineer are needed in the installation and commissioning process, the buyer may not be able to find such engineers.

3. Most of the buyers of face masks are also changing their profession to make face masks. For them, this is also a new industry. Face masks are even more fresh machines for them, both the buyer and the seller need to be familiar with the process for something new.

After the outbreak of Covid-19, a large number of mask machine suppliers emerged in China. All of them wanted to share in the opportunity and turned to make mask machines. Some suppliers went to buy the drawing of mask machines, some suppliers went to buy ready mask machine and copied, also some suppliers start from zero to develop their own mask machines. Richpeace is one of those people who invest their own research and development.

Before, Richpeace is an automatic machines solution supplier, when COVID-19 outbreak, Our boss, Arron Li decided to start developing a face mask machine. This decision was the only way which can keep over 700 employees can survive because at the special period, other machines won’t be sold at all. The decision was also a challenge, but Richpeace was not the first to accept such a challenge. The reason to do this also based on the strong technology R&D ability. 

The main component of the mask machine is the ultrasonic. Prior to this, Richpeace already had the mature ultrasonic application technology for the ultrasonic quilting machine and the ultrasonic automotive sunroof production line, more importantly, for the control part, RICHPEACE has its own R & D team For all the machines that Richpeace brings to market, including quilting machines, sewing machines, embroidery machines, spreading machines, cutting machines, electronic control systems are developed by Richpeace team.

Over the past 10 months, Richpeace has brought to market four major types of face masks: 3ply surgical mask machine, N95 folding mask machine, cup mask machine and fish type mask machine. For customers who can install and debug their own machines, Richpeace can provide fully automated production lines to save labor; for customers who can not install and debug their own machines, Richpeace offers semi-automated solutions that are simple to debug and fast to produce.

Automatic mask production lines:

Semi-auto mask making machines:

As the epidemic abates, face masks requirement is smaller than before, and most of the mask machines manufacturers have dropped out of the war, but Richpeace will continue to invest in face masks to keep up the global shortage. Customers familiar with Richpeace know that our prices are higher than those of other suppliers, but the price is relative to the quality.

If you have already got a quotation from Richpeace about the mask making machine, and you think our machine is too expensive. Then you must understand a truth: Good goods are not cheap, and cheap goods are not good.

We have no advantage in the price war, but we are confident in the quality war. You buy low-priced equipment, the more you use it, the worse you will feel. You buy our high-quality equipment, the more you use it, the happier you will be. Then, what do you think and how will you choose?

At present, the epidemic raised again from the data all over the world, so the demand for face masks is expected to increase. For clients who want to invest in the face mask production now, the following considerations should be taken into account when choosing the right face mask machine supplier:

1. How about the technology development ability of the mask machine supplier?

2. Is the supplier able to provide continuous and in time after-sale service?

3. Is the quality of the machine good enough? If now you cann’t go to visit supplier’s factory due to COVID-19, social software videos can be used to visit the factory or see how the machine is running.

4. Consider whether you have the ability to install and debug equipment, or whether you can find the right engineers to install and debug equipment?

If you are interested in above mask machines, please contact Gina for more information, +(，Wechat),

Want more information on Automatic Mask Machine? Feel free to contact us.