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What is the average cost of a BiPAP machine?
3 Best BiPAP Machines in - National Council on Aging
3 Best BiPAP Machines in
Fact Checked
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Learn more about the top BiPAP machines available in .
- BiPAP machines are used to treat complex breathing problems and sleep apnea conditions.
- There is a smaller selection of BiPAP models due to lower demand than CPAP machines.
- Your insurance may cover a BiPAP machine, as long as your doctor determines that CPAP therapy is not appropriate for your needs and condition.
1
Most Comfortable
ResMed AirCurve 10 VAuto With HumidAir & Heated Tube
Maximum comfort during sleep and PAP therapyMaximum comfort during sleep and PAP therapy
Comes with HumidAir humidification to keep air moistComes with HumidAir humidification to keep air moist
Comes with heated tubingComes with heated tubing
Check Price2
Best for Travel
DeVilbiss IntelliPAP AutoBilevel
Excellent choice for frequent travelersExcellent choice for frequent travelers
Easy to pack and carryEasy to pack and carry
Quiet at 26 decibelsQuiet at 26 decibels
Check Price3
Easiest to Use
React Health Luna G3 25A
Preheat humidifier functionPreheat humidifier function
Automatic supply remindersAutomatic supply reminders
Quiet at 26 decibelsQuiet at 26 decibels
Check PriceA quick look at the best BiPAP machines of
While many people are familiar with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines, bilevel positive airway pressure (BiPAP) machines are another type of device used for positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy. Unlike CPAP machines, which uses the same air pressure regardless of whether someone is breathing in or breathing out, a BiPAP machine releases air at different pressure levels for inhalations and exhalations. That can make exhaling easier. BiPAP machines may be necessary for certain conditions, like chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD) or sleep apnea, or for people who have tried CPAP therapy with unsuccessful results. Your doctor will determine whether BiPAP therapy is necessary for your condition and diagnosis.
BiPAP machines are generally more expensive and less frequently prescribed than CPAP machines, so there arent many BiPAP models on the market. With fewer choices, its important to consider the options to understand which machine will best suit your needs. For example, frequent travelers may want to research travel CPAP machines before making a purchase. Our Reviews Team researched the top models to help you understand the features and functions of each device so you can make an informed decision when selecting a BiPAP machine.
Best BiPAP machines of
ResMed AirCurve 10 VAuto With HumidAir & Heated Tube
Check Price
Pros
Comes with heated tubing
Sensors monitor air temperature and leakage
Swivel connector between tube and mask allows for easy movement
Can transfer data via memory card or mobile app
Cons
Slightly louder than other BiPAP machines
Warranty is only two years
Features
- Price: $1,776
- Weight: 2.75 pounds
- Noise level: 27 decibels
- Dimensions: 10.04 inches long, 4.57 inches wide, 5.91 inches tall
- Warranty: Two years
Additional information
The ResMed AirCurve 10 VAuto is one of the most popular BiPAP models available. It is designed with features that offer maximum comfort during sleep and PAP therapy, which encourages treatment compliance by making therapy as comfortable as possible. This model comes with HumidAir humidification to keep air moist as it moves into your airway, which helps prevent dryness and irritation.
Its heated tubing keeps the moistened air warm to avoid condensation inside the tube. The tubing also has a sensor where the tube attaches to your mask, which helps maintain a steady air temperature when it leaves the machine and enters your airway. A swivel connector between the tube and mask allows for easy movement throughout the night without kinking, pulling, or breaking the mask seal.
The AirCurve 10 features ResMeds Vsync technology to sense any air or pressure leakage from your mask. If there are any leaks detected, the machine will automatically adjust the pressure to make sure the prescribed treatment pressure reaches your airway. A memory card stored in the unit keeps track of your treatments, which can be accessed by your equipment supplier and shared with your doctor as needed. You can also transfer data over an internet connection using the myAir app.
In addition to the machine and tubing, this unit comes with a power supply kit, an initial supply of filters, and a travel bag. This BiPAP machine comes with a two-year manufacturers warranty, which covers the unit, humidifier power supply, and any battery accessories. Manufacturer warranty coverage is only available to the original buyer of the machine. This is a shorter warranty period than some other brands offer.
Customer Reviews
ResMed Corp, listed as ResMed Shop on TrustPilot, has over 900 customer reviews with 4.4 out of 5 stars at the time this article was written. Most positive reviews mention helpful staff and excellent customer service. The company has an A+ rating and 1.26 out of 5 stars on BBB, based on 19 customer reviews. Recent negative reviews on the BBB website mention problems using the warranty and missing machine data, as well as performance issues with the machine itself.
DeVilbiss IntelliPAP AutoBilevel w/ Smartlink
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Pros
Small size makes it great for travel
Three-year warranty
Detachable humidifier
Quiet at 26 decibels
Cons
No built-in data connectivity
Patients need to share BiPAP data with their doctor in person via memory card
Features
- Price: $1,275
- Weight: 2.75 pounds; 4.45 pounds with humidifier
- Noise level: 26 decibels
- Dimensions: 6.5 inches long, 8.4 inches wide, 6.4 inches tall
- Warranty: Three years
Additional information
The DeVilbiss IntelliPAP AutoBilevel is an excellent choice for frequent travelers. Its small size makes this BiPAP machine easy to pack and carry, and the humidifier chamber is simple to attach and remove for storage. With a noise level of 26 decibels, it is about as loud as a whisper and less likely to disturb others around you.
Being away from home and in different surroundings can make it difficult to use prescribed medical devices and technology. The IntelliPAP AutoBilevel features a simple control and display panel with three large, easy-to-read buttons that control nearly all of the machines functions. It also turns on automatically when you start breathing into your mask and automatically stops the air flow and pressure when the mask is removed.
This model comes with the SmartLink therapy management system that stores your therapy data on a memory card. Instead of transferring data between patient and doctor or supplier using an internet connection, SmartLink requires patients to transfer data using the physical memory card. This may make the machine easy to use for those who dont like relying on an internet connection, but it also makes the transfer of data a manual process since it can only be done by providing the memory card in person. You will need to remember to bring the memory card with you to all appointments.
The IntelliPAP AutoBilevel comes with a three-year manufacturers warranty, as well as extra filters. It also includes an expandable carrying bag, which is ideal if you plan to travel with extra parts or accessories.
Customer Reviews
DeVilbiss Healthcare has an A+ rating on the BBB but is not accredited and doesnt have any reviews as of the time this article was written. Drive Medical, the parent company of DeVilbiss Healthcare, has an average customer rating of 1.13 out of 5 stars from an average of eight reviews, but none of the negative reviews are about oxygen or PAP products.
Neither Drive Medical nor DeVilbiss are reviewed on Trustpilot.
Note: When traveling by plane, medical devices like BiPAP machines and accessories do not count toward your carry-on luggage limit. The DeVilbiss IntelliPAP AutoBilevel is FAA-compliant, so you can carry it on the plane and use your device during the flight if needed.
React Health Luna G3 25A
Check Price
Pros
Easy-to-navigate display
For more Bi Pipe Machine Priceinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.
Preheat humidifier function
Automatic supply reminders
Quiet at 26 decibels
Cons
Cant remove the humidifier
Two year warranty
Features
- Price: $1,499
- Weight: 3.75 pounds
- Noise level: 26 decibels
- Dimensions: 10.4 inches long, 5.7 inches wide, 4.5 inches high
- Warranty: Two years
Additional information
When it comes to medical devices, ease of use is important, especially if you are new to BiPAP therapy. The React Health Luna G3 25A comes with advanced features but is simple to use. It has a built-in humidifier and comes with heated tubing to prevent airway dryness, which can make therapy more comfortable. It also features a preheat function, allowing the humidifier chamber to warm the water before you start using the machine. This can make the start of therapy easier to adjust to each night. The Luna G3 25A also features auto-ramp technology so you can begin your therapy at a lower, more comfortable pressure. The machine then slowly increases the pressure as you fall asleep.
This model is excellent for users who may have vision difficulties. It has an easy-to-read display with lighting that helps make it easy to see at night. The interface features one home button and a large dial to navigate the settings and features. You can set reminders to alert you to replace things like filters or accessories, eliminating the guesswork or the need to keep track of your supplies manually. Plus, wireless connectivity allows you to transmit your therapy data to your equipment supplier and doctor.
Customer Reviews
Reviews of React Health are hard to find. The company doesnt have a profile on Trustpilot, and theres only one review on BBB with an F rating and 5 out of 5 stars. The company is also not accredited by BBB.
What to consider when choosing a BiPAP machine
A BiPAP machine is designed to help you breathe more effectively, usually during sleep. Here are some of the factors to keep in mind when looking into different BiPAP models:
- Prescription: Your prescription and the availability of machines that can accommodate your prescription will determine which devices to consider. Most BiPAP machines have similar pressure ranges, but youll need to confirm with your doctor and equipment supplier that the machine you want to purchase is compatible with your prescription.
- Climate control: Options like humidifiers and heated tubing are considered non-essential, but they can minimize or even eliminate BiPAP side effects. By adding moisture to the pressurized air, humidifiers keep your airways from drying out. Heated tubing warms the air, making it more comfortable to breathe.
- Limited choices: Compared with CPAP machines, there simply arent many BiPAP models available to purchase. A supplier or retailer that works with your insurance may only have one or two models to offer that work with your prescription, so be prepared for a limited selection.
- Noise level: Consider how lightly you sleep, as well as whether you sleep with a partner. Most modern BiPAP machines are designed to be about as quiet as a whisper, around 25 decibels, but if you or a partner are easily awakened by sounds, look for the quietest model available. A few extra decibels may make a big difference.
- Mask compatibility: Many BiPAP machines are universally compatible with PAP masks. However, there are some masks that only work with certain machines and tubing. If you are an experienced PAP user and have a favorite mask, check with your equipment supplier or the BiPAP manufacturer to confirm compatibility.
- Accessories:
A number of accessories may make BiPAP treatment more comfortable or convenient. For example, you can buy special pillows designed to accommodate your headgear and mask, a carrying case if you travel frequently, or features like a humidifier or data tracking accessory.
- Dimensions: Its important to consider where you will be using your BiPAP machine most often, and whether it will fit in your bedroom. If you have a large table or nightstand next to your bed, you can likely use a machine with larger dimensions. If you plan to travel frequently and will need to bring your BiPAP machine with you, its a good idea to look for one that is compact and lightweight.
- Data tracking: Data tracking allows you and your health care team to analyze the efficacy of your BiPAP treatment. Many insurance providers make data tracking a requirement of coverage.
- Insurance coverage: BiPAP machines are expensive, so if you have insurance, make sure you choose a model thats covered. Call your insurance company before you begin the buying process to confirm your coverage. Theyll be able to provide you with details like which machines are covered and where to purchase your BiPAP.
- Warranty: Most BiPAP machines come with a manufacturers warranty, but you should clarify what the warranty covers before making a purchase. Some warranties will offer the same coverage for the unit, power components, and humidifier, while others have different warranty terms for different parts of the machine. Also, manufacturers warranties usually only offer coverage for the initial buyer. If you are looking at refurbished or secondhand machines, ask the retailer if they provide any warranty coverage.
How to buy a BiPAP machine
As durable medical equipment that requires a prescription for use, there are specific steps you must take in order to purchase a BiPAP machine.
Diagnosis and prescription for BiPAP use
To buy a BiPAP machine, you need a diagnosis and prescription. There are many reasons you may seek medical care for breathing-related issues. You may have noticed difficulty breathing during sleep or unexplained fatigue while awake. Or a partner may even observe your snoring or breathing abnormalities while you sleep. A common diagnosis requiring a CPAP or BiPAP machine is sleep apnea, but doctors may also prescribe BiPAP therapy for COPD, pneumonia, certain neurological disorders, and post-surgical breathing recovery.
Selecting a BiPAP machine and equipment supplier
In most cases, your condition and prescription will determine which machine is right for you. Your doctor may even recommend a specific machine. Once you know the machine (or options) youre considering, you can decide where to shop.
Note that some insurance plans only offer coverage of equipment purchased from certain suppliers. Its always important to check with your insurance and confirm coverage before trying to purchase a BiPAP machine. Buying online can offer more options, as online suppliers can ship BiPAP equipment to most locations in the United States. To purchase your BiPAP machine from an online retailer, have your doctor first confirm your prescription with the supplier.
Does Medicare pay for BiPAP machines?
Medicare does cover BiPAP machines, but there are specific terms and restrictions to Medicare coverage. In order for Medicare to cover your BiPAP machine, first you need to have a qualifying diagnosis from your doctor and a prescription for PAP therapy. Your doctor and the equipment supplier you choose must also be enrolled in the Medicare program for your therapy to qualify for coverage.
When you have a diagnosis and prescription for PAP therapy, Medicare covers the cost of BiPAP device rental plus any necessary accessories for a three-month trial period. With this coverage from original Medicare, you will pay 20% of the cost of all equipment and supplies after youve reached your Part B deductible.
After the trial period, Medicare will require medical documentation that you still require therapy and that the therapy is helping you. Medicare covers a total rental period of 13 months, including the three-month trial period. When your rental period reaches 13 months, if your usage data shows youve used the machine consistently and as prescribed, you will own the machine.
Comparison of the best BiPAP machines, as of May
See Special Offers See Special Offers See Special Offers Price $1,776 $1,275 $1,499 Weight (in pounds) 2.75 without humidifier; 4 with humidifier 2.75 without humidifier; 4.45 with humidifier 3.75 (including built-in humidifier) Dimensions in inches (L x W x H) 10.04 x 4.57 x 5.91 6.5 x 8.4 x 6.4 10.4 x 5.7 x 4.5 Noise level (in decibels)* 27 26 26 Pressure range 325 cm H2O 325 cm H2O 425 cm H2ONote: If CPAP is an option for your condition, some insurance plans, including Medicare, may request that you try CPAP therapy before the plan will provide coverage for BiPAP therapy. Additionally, if your condition doesnt meet Medicare or insurance requirements for BiPAP reimbursement, you may have to provide additional medical justification for using one, since BiPAP machines are typically more expensive than CPAP machines.
How we chose the best BiPAP machines
Our Reviews Team consulted with industry experts to better understand the purpose and function of BiPAP therapy and CPAP and BiPAP machines. Based on our expert consultations and research, we determined the following factors to be important for our readers when shopping for a BiPAP machine:
- Cost
- Noise level
- Weight and size dimensions
- Mask compatibility and comfort
- Humidification
- Warranty
- Customer service
We had all of our selections medically reviewed by an expert in the field to ensure that each brand and model is appropriate for our readers needs.
Why you can trust our Reviews Teams expert review
Our Reviews Team recommends products and services that we feel strongly about, and that we believe will truly benefit our readers. Weve spent more than spent over 250 hours researching machines for PAP therapy to give you the most accurate review of each model and brand. To make our selections, we:
- Interviewed industry experts
- Consulted with a respiratory therapist to confirm the accuracy and integrity of our reviews
- Researched 15 manufacturers and 45 models across the category
- Read real reviews from verified customers on trusted third-party sites, including the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and Trustpilot
- Reviewed academic research to better understand the details and benefits of CPAP therapy and how the devices work
Bottom line
The most important thing to consider when shopping for a BiPAP machine is finding one that fits your PAP therapy prescription. Most retailers and medical suppliers have more CPAP machines to choose from than BiPAP machines, but its helpful to know beforehand which features may make your BiPAP therapy more comfortable and effective. Always discuss the available machines with your doctor to understand which ones will work for you.
Frequently asked questions
BiPAP is a form of PAP therapy, which stands for positive airway pressure. A BiPAP machine is used for maintaining an open airway for effective breathing, usually during sleep. BiPAP machines apply different levels of pressure to keep the airway open while you breathehigher pressure when you inhale and lower pressure when you exhale.
The average cost of a BiPAP machine is around $1,500. The models featured in this article range from $1,275 to $1,995. Cost can vary with the addition of optional features like heated tubing or enhanced connectivity.
Most BiPAP machines start to show signs of wear and tear around five years, which is when theyre eligible for replacement if youre using insurance.
CPAP uses a constant flow of air pressure to hold the airway open, regardless of whether youre inhaling or exhaling. BiPAP uses constant flow to provide two pressure settingsa higher pressure when you breathe in, and a lower pressure when you breathe out. For some people, the lower pressure makes it easier and more comfortable to exhale.
BiPAP is often prescribed for certain conditions like central sleep apnea or COPD. It may also be recommended for people who have trouble tolerating a CPAP machine.
Yes. BiPAP machines increase oxygen levels and help stabilize carbon dioxide levels. Thats why theyre used in emergency situations, such as an attack of COPD symptoms.
Have questions about this review? us at .
Sources
- Johns Hopkins Medicine. BiPap. Found on the internet at https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/bipap
- ResMed. Device innovation: Our Features & Algorithms. Found on the internet at https://www.resmed.com/en-us/healthcare-professional/products-and-support/innovation-technology/
- Yale.edu. Decibel Level Comparison Chart. Found on the internet at https://ehs.yale.edu/sites/default/files/files/decibel-level-chart.pdf
- Transportation Security Administration. What Can I Bring? Medical. Found on the internet at https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring/medical
- Medicare.gov. Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) Devices, Accessories, & Therapy. Found on the internet at https://www.medicare.gov/coverage/continuous-positive-airway-pressure-devices
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CPAP Machine Cost: Is it Cheaper Without Insurance?
Key Takeaways
- Out-of-Pocket vs. Insurance: Paying out of pocket can range from $900 to $1,400 for initial setup, often making it more affordable than going through insurance.
- Factors Affecting Cost: The CPAP market seems to be restabilizing after the COVID-19 pandemic, Philips DreamStation recall, and supply chain disruptions which led to increased costs and availability issues for CPAP machines.
- Equipment Cost Breakdown: Expect to spend between $500 and $1,650 for your first CPAP machine setup, or between $ to upwards of $ or more for a BiPAP machine and supplies.
- Yearly Maintenance Costs: Annual upkeep can range from $330 to $900, depending on how often you replace various parts.
- Insurance Limitations: Insurance companies may require compliance with usage and can reclaim the machine if you dont meet their criteria.
The first step to getting the most out of your CPAP therapy and receiving the restful night of sleep you deserve is purchasing the right machine for you. CPAP, APAP, and BiPAP machines fit different needs, varying based on the lifestyle factors that matter the most to you.
However, when it comes to the different types of machines, the cost is the factor that will likely influence your machine choice the most. While replacement supplies will be required a few months after you begin therapy, the only purchases you need to be concerned with to begin therapy are your CPAP machine, CPAP mask, and some basic cleaning supplies.
When paying out of pocket without insurance, you can expect to spend $900 to $1,400 on average for your initial therapy setup. Paying out of pocket is typically the most affordable approach, though there are other variables (such as varying levels of insurance coverage) and more expensive machines to consider that well explore in more detail below.
In this comprehensive pricing guide to sleep apnea machines, masks, and equipment, well dive into:
First, lets talk about the reason behind recent machine price increases and why the last couple of years have been rough for pricing and availability.
Why Are CPAP Machines So Expensive in ?
Its certainly true that CPAP machines of all types were more readily available and affordable in previous years, and there are quite a few factors contributing to the increased costs. The CPAP shortage can be traced back to the COVID-19 pandemic we experienced in ; more accurately, though, to the supply chain disruptions that occurred as a result of the pandemic. Then, in June of , Philips Respironics issued a voluntary recall affecting an estimated three to four million devices.
The recall introduced a sudden and large demand for new CPAP machines on top of existing supply chain disruptions and an increased need for computer parts for the newly-relocated work-from-home workforce. To add to this, a semiconductor chip shortage that was already on the rise since late became exacerbated by several events around the world. Production was hampered by three separate factory fires and the Russian invasion of Ukraine, which supplied roughly half of the worlds neon gas used to power the lasers required for semiconductor chip production.
To provide relief to a market in need of CPAP devices, ResMed revived the AirSense 10, this time without a wireless modem. While the AirSense 10 Card-to-Cloud doesnt pair with ResMeds MyAir app or wirelessly transmit data, its a more affordable take on therapy and an attempt to provide a more affordable machine to those in need.
How Much Does a CPAP Machine Cost in ?
Costs can vary because there are generally two ways to buy a CPAP machine:
- Working With Your Doctor Through Insurance
- Online Through a Third-Party Retailer Like CPAP.com
There are many variables that will be unique to your situation if youre paying through insurance, but typically, people who pay out of pocket for their equipment spend between $500 and $1,650 for their first CPAP machine and equipment setup, detailed below:
Equipment TypeLow-End CostHigh-End CostBiPAP CostMachine$400$1,200$1,200-$2,500+Mask$40$180$40-180Cleaning Supplies$15-30$200-300$15-300Total Upfront Investment~$500~$1,650~$1,300-3,000+As you can see above, the lower end of the initial investment in CPAP equipment and necessary supplies can range from about $500 with a value-priced machine to around $1,500 with a more modern machine with advanced features and data tracking. For those who require a BiPAP machine, the price can range from just over $1,000 to upwards of $3,000 or more, depending on the specific level of treatment you need.
Theres much more to discuss here, however, such as upkeep and maintenance costs that can stack up over time, which well discuss in more detail below. First, though, lets break down the costs, advantages, and disadvantages of paying with insurance versus paying out of pocket.
CPAP Machine Cost With Insurance:
Lets start with a potentially surprising ideaif you get your new CPAP machine from your insurance company, you may be overpaying. With most insurance companies, your machine is covered only if youve met your annual deductible. If you havent met your deductible, youll be on the hook for the cost of the machine, which may be more expensive than purchasing it yourself online.
Typically, the cost of the device will be broken up over a 10-month period (sometimes longer) and youll pay an installment each month as part of a rental agreement. At the end of the rental term, youll own the machine. This may sound comparable to purchasing a machine outright, but insurance companies typically pay much more for CPAP machines than were able to sell them for on our site, directly to you.
And for those looking to buy a secondary travel machine through your insurance company, you may run into some roadblocks as well. Insurance companies typically only supply one home unit every five years, so its likely youll need to pay out of pocket for any additional machines during the five-year period.
CPAP Machine Cost Without Insurance:
We discuss renting a CPAP machine through insurance more in-depth below, but for now, were going to take a look at what you can expect to pay out-of-pocket for a CPAP machine.
Standard CPAP Machines: Without insurance, the average cost of a CPAP machine in comes out to around $750; fixed-pressure CPAP machines can typically be found between $600 to $1,000. While CPAP machines may have paved the way for CPAP therapy, APAP machines have significantly risen in popularity in the last decade and are becoming prescribed more and more over CPAP as the technology improves.
APAP Machines: Interestingly, the average cost of an APAP in is about $700. With the rise in popularity, you can find a range of these auto-adjusting units online from as low as $400 to around $1,000-1,200 for higher-end options.
BiPAP Machines: A BiPAP machine starts out at around $1,600 but can cost upwards of $3,000 in some cases. These machines offer much more advanced therapy for specific needs and, in some cases, can even initiate breathingsomething CPAP cannot do.
Travel CPAP Machines: Lastly, travel machines typically cost between $600 and $900. Most travel machines are also auto-adjusting and offer therapy in a compact form, typically with optional waterless humidification.
Additional CPAP machine costs include the price of a mask, hose, and replacement supplies, including disposable, reusable, and bacteria filters. These additional supplies add comfort, an increased level of effectiveness, and cleanliness to your machine setup.
How Much Do CPAP Supplies Cost?
In addition to the CPAP machine itself, you have to consider the cost of CPAP supplies and add-ons, such as a humidifier, mask, hose, and cleaning supplies. Supplies are covered by insurance, but coverage levels vary from state to state. When you shop with CPAP.com, you can schedule subscriptions for commonly worn parts like cushions, headgear, and air filters to save 10% AND get free shipping on each subscription order.
To give you an idea of the average cost of CPAP supplies, we put together an annual breakdown of average expected costs, seen here:
Equipment TypeAnnual ReplacementsAverage Cost for 1 YearCPAP Mask Cushions4-8~$60-300+CPAP Mask Headgear1-2~$40-60CPAP Mask Frame1-2~$100-200+Tubing1-2~$10-30Machine Air Filters1-4~$12-20Humidifier Chamber1-2~$30-80Cleaning Supplies2-4~$80-200+Total Estimated Costs:X~$330-900Based on the above estimates, yearly CPAP ownership can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to nearly a thousand or more depending on your equipment and how often you replace the various pieces of it. In our experience, however, wed wager that the majority of CPAP owners will fall somewhere between $400 and $600 in yearly maintenance costs.
Below, youll find a more detailed breakdown by equipment type of what to expect when its time to replace equipment.
CPAP Masks: CPAP masks typically cost anywhere between $30 and $160. The cost of your CPAP mask will vary depending on the style, features, and quality of materials used.
The actual frame of your mask (the part your cushion snaps onto and headgear connects to) should be replaced every six to 12 months, but your mask cushion should be replaced every three to six months, or monthly if using an AirTouch memory foam cushion. Nasal pillows should be replaced every 1-3 months. Cushions typically cost between $15 and $60, depending on your mask.
CPAP Headgear: You dont need to purchase headgear separately when you buy a mask, but it will also become worn over time and should be replaced every six to nine months; you can expect to pay $15-$40 for your replacement headgear.
CPAP Humidifiers: External humidifiers typically cost between $150 to $250, but the good news is that modern CPAP machines virtually always have a built-in humidifier, so upkeep is the only real cost to consider as far as humidifiers are concerned nowadays. The humidifier chamber itself will need to be replaced every six to twelve months, but thankfully, replacement chambers start at around $20 and top out at around $40.
While not required, a humidifier can often make your CPAP therapy more comfortable and tolerable.
CPAP Hoses and Tubing: Most standard CPAP hoses can be found for less than $15, but specialty unheated hoses can go for upwards of $40. CPAP hoses should be replaced every six to twelve months. The price difference in hoses lies in the type of hose you choose. Heated hoses are more expensive than standard hoses and start at around $30 with the most expensive models coming in at around $65.
With heated hoses, heating coils cut down on the formation of condensation inside the hose itself, making for a more comfortable therapy experience.
CPAP Supplies: Supplies like filters range in price from $10 to $40, based on what your specific machine requires. Almost all CPAP machines have different filters that are used to remove atmospheric irritants from the air you breathe.
The three different types of filters are disposable (fine), reusable (foam), and bacteria. Disposable filters are the cheapest and found on most machines. They cannot be washed and work best when replaced every three to six months. Reusable filters are intended to be cleaned periodicallyusually once a monthand arent used in every machine; these should also be replaced every three to six months.
Reusable filters range from $9 to $20. Bacteria filters are optional but add another level of protection to your CPAP setup by filtering out mold, bacteria, and other tiny particles that might make it past your machines standard defenses. Bacteria filters can be purchased in a pack of five for under $20 or a pack of ten for under $30.
How Much Do Cleaning Supplies Cost?
Regularly cleaning and maintaining your CPAP equipment can increase the longevity of your machine and the quality of your therapy.
To get the most out of your therapy, clean your CPAP with cleaning supplies such as:
CPAP Machine Rental Cost
There are a few online companies that specialize in CPAP machine rentals, though we dont recommend this route as a long-term solution. While the low monthly cost, typically $30-$70 a month for most options, may seem appealing, youll actually be paying significantly more over time.
Insurance usually replaces a CPAP machine every five years which is the average CPAP life expectancy. Even the cheapest rental we found at $30 a month works out to $1,800 over a span of five years, and thats not even for a current-generation CPAP model.
On average, you can expect to pay about $60 a month to rent a CPAP machine, and over the course of five years youll end up paying $3,600, or more than double the amount of purchasing a brand new AirSense 11 AutoSet.
Renting a CPAP can be a great way to test drive a new machine or try out some different features or brands in the short term, but when people talk about renting a CPAP machine, its actually usually being done through their insurance provider.
How Much Does it Cost to Rent a CPAP Machine (Through Insurance)?
Renting to own your CPAP machine through your insurance company would mean the machine is yours, right? Unfortunately, thats not always the case.
While the most common way of starting your CPAP therapy through your insurance company is renting your machine, you are often required to use it in order to keep it. You read that rightif you dont regularly use your CPAP machine, then your insurance company can take it from you even if youve been paying for it monthly.
Insurance and Compliance Reporting
Insurance commonly requires a basic level of therapy complianceusually around four hours of usage a night for 70% of nights. If you go a period of time without using your machine, it may indicate to your insurance company that youre not serious about your sleep apnea treatment, and they will request the machine back.
The insurance model works well for those who wouldnt consistently use their machine without insurance checking in on them, but approaching therapy on your own terms can be much more empowering. If youre someone that gets anxious easily or would worry about not meeting compliance requirements, youd most likely benefit from owning your machine outright.
Some of the community members over at CPAPtalk.com have also pointed out that when you work with insurance, you tend to pay a frustration tax as well. Its not actually any amount of money, but rather your sanity thats being spent when waiting to be approved for replacement supplies or repairs for your machine if something goes wrong. Instead of simply purchasing new supplies and having them shipped straight to you, youll have to run everything through your insurance first, which will require another level of planning ahead and less flexibility when you need supplies in a pinch.
Buying a CPAP machine online means youre always in charge of your therapy. Youll own it from day one.
Do You Get the Best CPAP Machine Through Insurance?
When getting a CPAP machine with insurance, many people assume theyll get the best machine, which isnt always true. In many cases, the CPAP supplier your insurance company recommends is reimbursed the same amount of money regardless of the quality of your machine. Thus, theres no incentive for the CPAP supplier to give you the best machine.
In addition, if the supplier gives you a cheap, average machine, then they can pocket more of the insurance companys reimbursement versus giving you a more expensive, higher-quality machine.
With CPAP.com, you are in control of your CPAP therapy. You can choose the machine that best fits your lifestyle and sleep apnea needs.
You Can Still File a Claim When You Buy With CPAP.com
To keep our prices low, CPAP.com doesnt bill insurance for our machines or accept Medicare. CPAP.com is considered an out-of-network DME or CPAP supplier, and insurance plans differ in coverage based on the DME and insurance carrier.
We can provide you with an insurance-compliant reimbursement form but we cannot guarantee that your insurance will reimburse you when you buy from us. If you plan to do this, check with your insurance company before your purchase to be sure that youll be reimbursed.
Final Thoughts
Getting a good night of sleep translates to the overall productivity of your day. Without a good night of sleep, you can experience daytime sleepiness or trouble focusing, but the dangers of untreated sleep apnea can be much more severe. Successful CPAP therapy can lower your blood pressure and lower your chances of stroke, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and even Alzheimers.
While there are many people who simply prefer to let their insurance handle everything, purchasing or renting your machine through insurance is typically more expensive in the long run. Buying a CPAP machine from a reputable dealer like CPAP.com puts the power back in your hands, and often at a better price. Explore your options on CPAP.com to find your ideal machine and pricepoint for your lifestyle so you can begin to experience the life-altering benefits of CPAP therapy.
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