The Best Backup Batteries for CPAP Machines

Whether you caught a cold, experienced a power outage, or plan to travel without your CPAP or BiPAP machine, you may occasionally interrupt your treatment. 

Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy is the most common and reliable method of treating sleep apnea, that is, of course, if you fully comply with treatment. 

Establishing a pattern of compliant usage until it becomes automatic and effortless will guarantee the therapy's effectiveness and prevent long-term health effects. 

But, once you start interrupting treatment with higher frequency, you begin to form a habit of non-compliance and miss out on the benefits of your sleep apnea therapy. 

The good news is that we understand the difficulties of staying on track for cpap users, and that’s why we come to you with solutions! No matter where you are or where you’re going, we have your back. Literally, CPAP backup batteries are a lifesaver when it comes to staying committed to your CPAP therapy! 

In this article, we'll talk about:

• What happens if you don't use CPAP one night?
• What are the most common reasons for non-compliance?
• What are CPAP backup batteries?
• Types of CPAP batteries
• Why use CPAP batteries?
• Which CPAP battery is right for me?

What happens if you don't use CPAP one night? 

When CPAP treatment is interrupted, the risk of sudden death, stroke, or heart arrhythmia due to sleep apnea during one night of failed use is likely small. However, dreaded symptoms such as drowsiness, excessive daytime sleepiness, snoring, and fatigue may come back.

If the non-compliance pattern persists, your sleep apnea effects will continue or worsen. 

Usage is also critical for insurance purposes, as insurance companies will not reimburse for CPAP therapy (including all of the equipment) if it's not being used.

What are the most common reasons for non-compliance?

Common reasons for CPAP treatment interruption or non-compliance include:

• discomfort
• facial pressure marks
• claustrophobia from the CPAP mask
• nasal congestion
• travel
• power outages

The need for electricity at all times and in all places is a major issue. 

CPAP batteries are a great backup that gives you the flexibility to take your therapy on the go, camping, on a flight, or simply at home in the event of a power outage when external sources of electricity are not available.

What are CPAP backup batteries?

CPAP machines run on electricity and need a continuous power supply to keep working efficiently. 

Power outages and travel plans can cause difficulty and inconvenience to patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). CPAP batteries are a safe alternative to continue using CPAP machines without complications.

CPAP batteries are convenient, easily rechargeable, and portable power stations that can last from ten to forty hours, depending on the pressure settings of the CPAP machine. 

As an added benefit, they also work powering other electronic devices such as your smartphone and easily connect to the cigarette lighter in your vehicle or car charger without the need of an ac outlet.

Types of CPAP batteries

There are two types of CPAP batteries: Lithium-ion batteries and Deep cycle batteries.

Lithium-Ion Batteries:

Lithium-Ion batteries are the most common CPAP batteries, many either 12 volt or 24-volt batteries, with an efficient run-time period and excellent portability. 

If the efficiency is high, Lithium-Ion batteries can last for more than a single night and fully charge in just five to six hours. 

• Great Portability
• Good for travel by plane
• Quick Charge

Deep Cycle Batteries:

Deep cycle batteries are more robust and heavier than Lithium-Ion batteries and make them ideal for camping trips and road trips. 

These types of batteries can be difficult to recharge. Once charged, the deep cycle batteries last for a longer duration.

• Not Portable
• Good for camping trips
• Longer Battery Life

Why use CPAP batteries?

Nothing compares to the enhanced quality of life that a good night's sleep will bring you when you continue your CPAP therapy. If your CPAP therapy is compromised for the following reasons, investing in CPAP batteries is a good decision.

• Power-Outages

Power-Outages can occur because of many reasons like faulty circuits, electrical overload, thunderstorms, or natural disasters like earthquakes and hurricanes, leaving you vulnerable to a night without CPAP therapy. 

If you live in an area with high winds, thunderstorms, hurricanes, or snow that lead to common power outages, then CPAP battery backups are a must. 

• Traveling

For frequent travelers and camping enthusiasts, we have great news! CPAP Backup Batteries give you the freedom and peace of mind to go out and explore the world.

Some CPAP machines are not portable, but by using CPAP batteries, some machines may become portable and long-lasting. These batteries also work for travel CPAP devices, and they are rechargeable, so no need to worry about finding an AC power source or power outlet in the middle of a forest! 

These portable cpap batteries do not tend to falter in harsh conditions and extreme climates and hence, are the best option for mountain climbers or hikers/campers. Researchers have found that CPAP machines work effectively at high altitudes.

For the jet setters, these are FAA approved and thus are suitable for in-flight purposes and will get you past tsa without delays. However, there are specific guidelines which you should follow if you want to carry CPAP batteries:

- Get a doctor's letter stating the need for CPAP and also a copy of the FAA compliance letter of your machine.

- For overseas travel, contact the airline a few weeks ahead of departing and inquire about the CPAP machine and the cpap battery pack. 

• Portability and Battery Life

CPAP batteries offer great portability allowing you to use CPAP machines whenever you need them without a power cord or wall outlet. You can fully charge some of these batteries, like Lithium-Ion batteries, in little time. They are lightweight, making it easier to carry them around.

• As a Backup

With CPAP therapy, it's always a good idea to have a backup plan. CPAP batteries are a great accessory to your cpap supplies that gives you peace of mind.

• Easily Rechargeable

It takes just about a few hours to recharge the battery power of your lithium-ion battery, and you're ready to go! If you like to spend a lot of time outdoors, you can purchase a solar generator for your lithium-ion battery.

• Affordable Cost

CPAP batteries are cost-effective, and you have several alternatives depending on the quality and features. The warranty for these CPAP batteries are also very good, ranging from 6 months to 1 year. 

• High Efficiency

CPAP batteries have longer run-time hours, and most of them can work up to 20 hours if they are fully charged. Run-time of the battery depends on the pressure being used and the machine type. You can improve your battery's run-time by not using the humidification feature when not required and also by preventing the use of an inverter.

Some modified batteries can also display how much battery life is remaining for its proper utilization and use. 

• Adaptable

CPAP batteries work well with any model of CPAP machine. They do not have any specific requirements. 

Many batteries come with power adapters, connectors, and extra USB ports, so you can also charge other devices like a cellphone. But it's always a good idea to check if you need a DC power converter for your specific model and make it part of your cpap battery kit.

Which CPAP battery is right for me?

Selecting the right battery for your CPAP can differ based on the:

• Type of machine
• Pressure settings
• Altitude
• Use of humidifier
• Use of power inverter

Let's take a look at the top CPAP battery options:

Medistrom Pilot-24 Lite

One of our best-selling and customer favorites is the Medistrom Pilot-24 Lite Battery and Backup Power Supply, a portable, versatile and powerful FAA compliant travel companion that can power CPAP equipment for up to 10 hours or more in almost any environment or condition. 

This cpap battery is compatible with ResMed AirSense 10™, ResMed AirMini™, ResMed S9™, 3B Medical Luna™, Apex Medical iCH™, Philips Respironics DreamStation™ Go, ResMed AirCurve™ VAuto, and ResMed AirCurve™ S.

Pros

• FAA Approved
• 1-2 nights of power 
• Ultra-portable
• Convenient AC and DC power charger
• Built in USB port for charging other small electronic devices
• Includes built in LED flashlight
• Sensitive to extremely hot temperatures  
• Also good for home use

Cons

• Not compatible with ventilator PAP devices.
• For the Dreamstation machine please use the Pilot-12.

 Expion 360 EXP96 Pro

Another great option we recommend is the Expion 360 EXP96 Pro Lithium Ion Battery Bank, which fully charges in 10 hours and lasts up to 4 full nights and features four charging ports for additional devices. 

The EXP96 Pro is compatible with: ResMed AirMini™, ResMed AirSense 10™, ResMed AirCurve™, AirStart, DreamStation Auto, HDM Z1 and Z2, IntelliPAP, and Transcend.

Pros

• Longer battery life (6 nights of power from a single charge)
• Ultra-portable with built in handle
• Built in USB port for charging other small electronic devices

Cons

• You'll need a DC charging cable to connect your CPAP machine to the EXP96 Pro. 
• The following CPAP devices require the purchase of an adapter:
• Resmed Airsense
• Resmed S9
• Philips Respironics Dreamstation
• Philips Remstar60 Series DC

Freedom CPAP Battery V2

A top-ranked CPAP battery is the Freedom CPAP Battery V2, with streamlined DC output cables that make connecting the Freedom V2 CPAP Battery to your CPAP machine fast and easy, and allows your CPAP machine to run for one to three nights.

Pros

• Compatible with the BPS solar charger.
• Ultra-portable
• Serves as a backup system when connected to CPAP machine
• FAA compliant
• Fast charging time
• Digital Display Screen

Cons

• You need to add an inverter which reduces your machine’s usage time

The Big Picture

There are many CPAP battery options in the market, and each offer its own advantages according to your specific needs. The best cpap battery is the one that fits your lifestyle and budget needs.

If you’d like to review your options with one of our Respiratory Therapists, we’d be happy to assist you.

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We hope you’re now ready to take on your next adventure without leaving your sleep therapy behind! Whether you’re off camping, traveling, or opting for a safe battery backup in case of a power outage, it's always a good idea to plan for the success of your sleep apnea therapy.