This is the power supply that came with your standard CPAP or BiPAP machine initially. An AC Power Supply will run from your machine directly into a wall outlet.  The AC Power supply features the “cord” that runs from your outlet to the CPAP’s power adapter power station which includes a secondary cord that runs from the adapter (brick) to your machine. Every machine type has its own specific AC Power Supply.

CPAP DC power cords will allow you to power your CPAP machine by plugging it into a moving power source such as a boat or a car. When using a DC cable, it’s a good idea to also use a DC power converter to ensure that your machine is receiving an accurate and constant voltage because while it isn’t required, it can prolong the life of your machine and prevent damage.  

These are CPAP battery options that are designed for one specific type of CPAP machine and will typically feature a connection that can only be used by that particular device such as a docking station or a casing with particular dimensions and measurements. Travel CPAP batteries might not have the longest run times but they’re rechargeable and tend to be pretty small in size, making them and their chargers easy to throw in your suitcase or travel bag.

Lithium ion CPAP batteries are the most common and popular type of portable power for CPAP users due to the fact that they’re lightweight, rechargeable and typically airline approved. These batteries are smaller in size than most other CPAP battery power options and will be somewhere between the size of a large smartphone and a DVD case and will typically feature AC and USB connections which are compatible with most CPAP and travel CPAP types without too much worry about CPAP cable compatibility.

Important note: Most manufacturers of portable CPAP batteries will either feature a device compatibility chart/list on their website or can provide one upon request. Be sure to confirm that the battery or power option you’re interested in can be used with your machine prior to purchase. 

This type of power option is the only power option that includes a 3-prong outlet, so use of an adapter/converter isn’t typically required. Most universal batteries will feature multiple connections/ports which makes it a great buy for traveling CPAP users who want to pack as little as possible, as well as customers who don’t want to worry about purchasing converters and adapters.

UPS batteries are a favorite among CPAP users who live in areas that are known to experience tornados, hurricanes, and even snowstorms that cause frequent power outages, as well as those who are located too far off-grid for reliable residential electricity. The UPS battery is placed between the CPAP machine and the wall which means that the battery plugs into the outlet and the machine plugs into the battery. When the power flickers or goes out entirely, the battery immediately picks up and continues to run the machine for as long as the battery’s charge allows.

Solar power is one of the newer existing technologies to be integrated into the world of medical equipment. This is a great option for those who plan to be without power for more than 1-2 days at a time, as it’s much cheaper and much more lightweight than trying to carry multiple battery packs. And while they’re not a great option for direct use, solar panels are a reliable, eco-friendly way to charge your portable battery supply.

Note: In order for a solar panel to efficiently charge portable CPAP batteries such as Medistrom, NiteOwl, and Freedom 160, a solar panel with 12-28 volts of output power and between 40-100 watts is required.

Unfortunately, choosing a replacement power supply for your CPAP/APAP or Bi-PAP machine isn’t quite as simple as choosing one that has the correct shape plug. If it’s time to replace your machine’s cord, don’t hesitate to reach out to your device’s manufacturer or the customer service team of the vendor you’re working with for assistance with finding the compatible power option. Even a wrong, incompatible power supply (cord) can look like the right one due to all batteries having similar designs but using a supply with the wrong wattage/voltage can damage your device.

Just as your electric bill will be higher when you’ve needed to run your air conditioner, your heater or even your washing machine more often, your CPAP machine’s power consumption will always be higher when its multiple features are in play. Heated tubing and heated humidification can cause a portable CPAP battery to drain faster than it would if those features were temporarily cut off.

Sleep apnea therapy doesn’t have to pause just because you’re on the go! For both peace of mind and continued effective CPAP machine function, there are great options available. From camping trips to family visits, there are no limits on where you can take your sleep apnea treatment!