Where can I find a CPAP machine for sale?

If you plan to use your insurance, you’ll need to get a CPAP machine from an insurance-approved medical supply store or durable medical equipment (DME) supplier. You’ll also need to choose from a list of covered CPAP devices. If you’re paying out of pocket, you’ll need to decide if you want a new machine or a refurbished one. This will depend on your needs and your budget: New CPAP machines are available through sleep clinics, DME suppliers, medical supply stores, large pharmacies, and online retailers like CPAP.com or The CPAP Shop. Reconditioned (refurbished) CPAP machines are sold by specialty vendors such as SecondWindCPAP or CPAP Liquidators, or sometimes through local DME suppliers. These are cleaned, tested, and often come with a warranty. It’s important to shop from trusted sources to ensure safety, hygiene, and proper setup.

CPAP Machine: Overview, Types, and Cost

Key takeaways:

CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) is a breathing machine that pushes air into your airways.
The most common reason people use CPAP is to treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
If you have sleep apnea, your health insurance will likely cover most of the CPAP machine’s cost.
A typical CPAP machine costs around $745 to $1,300. Before buying a CPAP machine, consider renting one to find out if the treatment works for you.

Many people hold their breath while sleeping but don’t know it. In obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), airways collapse or become blocked during sleep. People around you may notice that your breathing becomes shallow or even stops.

These disruptions in breathing are scary. And they mean your body isn’t getting the oxygen that it needs during rest. That’s why untreated sleep apnea can increase your risk for a range of conditions — from high blood pressure, stroke, and heart attack to glaucoma, diabetes, and depression. OSA can also affect your quality of life and increase your risk of dangerous driving accidents.

But OSA is treatable with a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine. Here’s what you need to know about how to choose a CPAP machine, how to use it, and how to save on CPAP machines and supplies if your insurance doesn’t cover it.

What is a CPAP machine, and what does it do?

A CPAP machine is an electric breathing device prescribed to treat sleep apnea.

CPAP works by pushing a constant flow of pressurized air into your airways to hold your windpipe and airways open. This prevents your airway from collapsing or becoming blocked during sleep.

CPAP machines require you to use either a mask that covers both your nose and mouth or nasal pillows. Nasal pillows are two small plugs — similar to the size and shape of earbuds — that fit up against your nostrils.

A flexible tube connects the mask to a box-shaped machine with an air compressor. Some machines have built-in humidifiers to prevent your throat and nasal passages from drying out.

If you have OSA, you should use your CPAP machine every time you sleep — even when taking a nap.

Benefits of a CPAP machine

Using a CPAP machine can feel like a hassle at first. Wearing a mask, adjusting straps, or hearing the gentle hum of the machine may take some getting used to. But for most people with sleep apnea, the benefits far outweigh the inconvenience.

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Here’s what you can expect with regular CPAP use:

Better sleep quality: fewer sleep disruptions, less snoring, and deeper, more refreshing sleep
More daytime energy: wake up rested, stay alert, and avoid drowsiness during the day
Sharper focus and memory: improved concentration and mental clarity
Improved mood: less irritability, anxiety, and depression; more patience and motivation
Long-term health benefits: longer life expectancy and lower risk of serious complications like heart disease, stroke, and diabetes
Lower accident risk: reduced chance of falling asleep at work or behind the wheel

Medical teams also prescribe CPAP in the hospital to treat people struggling to breathe, such as with pneumonia or congestive heart failure.

Types of CPAP machines

There are different types of sleep apnea machines that can be used to treat OSA. People often call them different types of CPAP machines, but they’re actually types of PAP, or positive airway pressure machines. The main difference between the types of PAP machines is the way they provide airway pressure.

CPAP machines

These use continuous positive airway pressure, and they’re the most commonly prescribed. The machine delivers a single, consistent amount of pressure to your airways — whether you’re breathing in or breathing out.

Most CPAP machines have a “ramp-up” feature, meaning it starts with a lower pressure and then ramps up to the full amount when you’re sleeping. This makes it easier to fall asleep. Unlike the other PAP machines, CPAP machines are available in a range of sizes, including a smaller, portable size for travel. These travel CPAP machines often come in a battery-operated version.

APAP machines

These machines use auto-adjusting positive airway pressure (APAP). People sometimes call this an auto-CPAP or auto-adjusting CPAP machine. Instead of having one pressure throughout the night, a healthcare professional will set a range of pressures. The machine will automatically adjust the pressure within that range based on your needs.

APAP machines can make breathing more comfortable, so they’re a good option for people who can’t get used to the CPAP machine. They’re also helpful for people who change positions a lot while sleeping. APAP machines used to be more expensive than regular CPAP machines. But now that APAP machines are becoming more popular, the cost can be pretty similar.

BIPAP machines

These are bilevel positive airway pressure (BIPAP) machines. They have two pressures — one for breathing in and one for breathing out. The higher pressure is used to keep your airways open when you’re breathing in. Having a lower pressure when breathing out makes it easier to breathe compared to a CPAP machine.

BIPAP machines need more sensors and settings than a CPAP machine, so they’re usually more expensive. They’re more likely to be prescribed for someone with chronic breathing conditions, like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or central sleep apnea (a less common type of sleep apnea).

Types of CPAP masks

Just as there are different types of machines, there are also different types of masks. Most people use one of the following types of masks.

Nasal masks

These are attached from your upper lip to your nasal bridge. They deliver pressurized air through your nose. Nasal masks are more comfortable, less expensive, and less likely to lead to air leaks. But they won’t work well for you if you have a mustache or breathe through your mouth.

Nasal pillows

Flexible silicone prongs create a seal at the level of your nostrils. These are a good option for people:

With facial hair
Who feel anxious with the larger masks
Who just want the smallest mask available

But, if you’re using high pressures, the nasal pillow mask might not be strong enough to keep a good seal.

Oronasal masks

These traditional masks cover both your nose and mouth. They’re the best option if you breathe through your mouth at night, since the mask seals your nose and mouth. But they can be less comfortable than the other options. So, some people have trouble getting used to an oronasal mask.

How much does a sleep apnea machine cost?

According to the retailer CPAP.com, the average out-of-pocket cost for a CPAP machine is $750. Depending on the device, an initial sleep apnea machine setup — which includes a mask and supplies — can be between $745 to $1,300. If you need a travel sleep apnea machine, you can expect to spend another $500 to $1,000. With any of these machines, exact costs vary based on features.

Machine type	CPAP.com cost ranges for machine only
CPAP	$500-$1,000
APAP	$600-$1,600
BIPAP	$1,700-$3,000+
Travel	$500-$1,000

Upkeep, service, and replacement parts could average another $227 to more than $1,600 every year, depending on your particular machine. Here are accessories that need to be replaced regularly.

Equipment type	Yearly replacements	Cost for 1 year
Mask and headgear	1-2	$45-$340+
Mask cushions	4-12	$30-$240
Hose (tubing)	1-4	$15-$60
Air filters	1-12 (may be reusable)	$6-$144
Humidifier tank	1-2 (typically built-in)	$15-$54
Cleaning supplies	Includes special disinfectants	$20-$400+

Does insurance cover CPAP machines?

Generally, yes. If you’re on Medicare and have met your Part B deductible, your use of a medically necessary CPAP machine is covered. Medicare will pay 80% of the cost for rental and supplies for a 3-month trial. (By law, Medicare Advantage plans must provide the same level of coverage.)

After 3 months, if your healthcare team says CPAP therapy is helping you, Medicare should continue coverage. Once you’ve used the rented CPAP machine for 13 continuous months, you own it outright.

Private health insurance plans typically cover the purchase or rental of a CPAP machine too. They may have requirements such as:

Diagnosis of sleep apnea from a healthcare professional
Prior authorization of the treatment
Documentation from your healthcare team that you’re benefiting from CPAP treatment
Proof that you’ve received education from the CPAP provider on how to properly use the machine
Completion of a previous sleep test ordered by your healthcare team
Use of the CPAP machine for a specific number of hours each night

How to save on the cost of a CPAP machine

If you can’t afford to pay full price for a CPAP machine, here are a few money-saving options:

Rent a CPAP machine for as little as $1.30 a day (you’ll have to pay a deposit for the device and a set-up fee). Keep in mind that you’ll save money at first, but you’ll end up paying more than you would if you bought the machine itself.
Buy a refurbished machine at a discount from a used CPAP retailer such as SecondWindCPAP.
Sign up for discounts through the American Sleep Apnea Association’s CPAP machine and mask assistance programs. The machine program has a $200 yearly fee. The mask assistance program provides a year’s worth of supplies (masks, filters, and tubes) for $100. These programs may not be immediately available to you, and you might need to join a waiting list.

Tips for comfortably using a CPAP machine

Nobody enjoys sleeping with a mask on. You might not sleep well for several nights, until you get used to your CPAP machine. But you can expect the benefits of treatment to outweigh the initial discomfort.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has some tips for getting used to your CPAP machine:

Try out different types of face masks. You might need a different size. Or you might find that the oronasal mask makes you feel claustrophobic, so a nasal pillow could work better for your needs.
Make sure that you’re wearing your mask correctly. Irritated eyes may be a sign that the mask is too loose and air is leaking out. Tighten the straps, but not too tight. A mask that’s too tight may also leak air, and it could cause you to wake up with a headache.
Use earplugs. If the noise of the machine keeps you awake, try earplugs, or put the machine under the bed to muffle the sound.
Use a humidifier. This can prevent getting a dry or stuffy nose.
Wear it for shorter periods to start. Try wearing the mask for 10 to 30 minutes while awake to get used to it. Or wear it for shorter periods at night. As you get used to it, you’ll be able to wear it for longer.
Clean the mask and tube daily. To keep your CPAP machine working properly, soak your mask and tube in soapy water, rinse, and air dry every day. For specifics, read the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions.

Reach out to your healthcare team if you’re still having trouble getting used to your CPAP machine or your sleep quality doesn’t seem to improve. You may need different air-pressure settings, a different mask, or a different machine. Some people prefer continuous air pressure, while others are more comfortable with the different settings on BIPAP machines.

CPAP machine side effects

While CPAP can lead to life-changing improvements in sleep quality, it can sometimes lead to irritating side effects. The most common side effects include:

Dry mouth
Waking up more often overnight
Congestion
A feeling of pressure from the mask
Nosebleeds

You may be able to prevent or lessen some of these side effects by following the strategies above, like using a humidifier, making sure your mask fits well, and giving yourself time to get used to the machine. It’s worth troubleshooting any side effects so that you can enjoy the health benefits of a CPAP machine.

What are some alternatives to a CPAP machine?

If you can’t get used to wearing the mask or don’t sleep well due to CPAP machine noise, ask your primary care provider about trying some other OSA treatments. Keep in mind that while several different types of surgery exist for OSA, not all people with OSA will benefit from surgery. It depends on the underlying cause of your symptoms.

The following table lists some common alternatives to CPAP.

Treatment	Description	How it works
Nasal expiratory positive airway pressure (EPAP)	Disposable or reusable valves inserted into or over your nostrils	Limits the air you exhale with each breath, maintaining pressure that keeps your airways open
Neuromuscular tongue muscle stimulator	Prescription mouthpiece worn 20 minutes a day while awake	Strengthens your tongue muscle with mild electrical currents so that your tongue won’t relax and block your airway as much during sleep
Oral appliance	Custom-fit prescription device, similar to a sports mouth guard or orthodontic retainer	Fits over upper and lower teeth, keeping your jaw in a position that allows airways to stay open while you sleep
Position therapy	Special pillow or other device	Helps people with sleep apnea caused by sleeping on their back to stay sleeping on their sides
Tongue retainer	Sleeve-shaped oral device, often made of silicone	Holds your tongue in place during sleep to keep it from blocking your airway
Implantable nerve stimulator (Inspire implant)	Small instrument implanted under the skin of the chest	Sends a mild electrical current to your tongue muscles while you sleep to prevent them from collapsing and blocking your airway
Turbinate reduction surgery	Nose surgery, often done with septoplasty	Removes or reduces swollen tissue inside the nose to make breathing easier
Septoplasty	Nose surgery, often done with turbinate reduction	Straightens the wall inside the nose (the septum) if it’s crooked
Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP)	Throat surgery	Removes extra tissue from the back of the throat to help keep the airway open
Maxillomandibular advancement (MMA)	Jaw surgery	Moves the upper and lower jaw forward to create more space in the airway and improve breathing

Frequently asked questions

CPAP machines and oral devices are usually used separately. Each one works in a different way to keep your airway open during sleep. But in some cases, a sleep specialist may recommend using both together. An example is if an oral device helps reduce the CPAP pressure needed or addresses other specific jaw or tongue issues. Always check with your sleep specialist before combining treatments to make sure it’s safe for you.

If you plan to use your insurance, you’ll need to get a CPAP machine from an insurance-approved medical supply store or durable medical equipment (DME) supplier. You’ll also need to choose from a list of covered CPAP devices.

If you’re paying out of pocket, you’ll need to decide if you want a new machine or a refurbished one. This will depend on your needs and your budget:

New CPAP machines are available through sleep clinics, DME suppliers, medical supply stores, large pharmacies, and online retailers like CPAP.com or The CPAP Shop.
Reconditioned (refurbished) CPAP machines are sold by specialty vendors such as SecondWindCPAP or CPAP Liquidators, or sometimes through local DME suppliers. These are cleaned, tested, and often come with a warranty.

It’s important to shop from trusted sources to ensure safety, hygiene, and proper setup.

All CPAP machines require some type of mask to deliver pressurized air and keep the airway open. While there isn’t a truly “mask-free” CPAP option, mask designs have become much smaller and more comfortable, including options like nasal pillows.

For people who can’t tolerate any kind of mask, there are alternatives to CPAP. One example is the Inspire implant. This is a small, FDA-approved device that’s placed under the skin. It gently stimulates the airway muscles during sleep to keep them open. Inspire doesn’t require a mask or hose. But it does involve surgery, and so it isn’t right for everyone.

The bottom line

CPAP machines can be expensive, but they’re a worthwhile investment in your health. If you have been prescribed CPAP for OSA, your insurance plan may cover a CPAP machine and supplies. Medicare will likely cover machine rental and supplies for a few months — or more — if the treatment works.

If you’re uninsured or your plan declines coverage, look for used CPAP machines and organizations that may provide machines at a discount. Be patient while you’re getting used to a CPAP machine. It can take time and practice. You may also need to work with your specialist to adjust your settings.

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Written by:

Karen Hovav, MD, FAAP

Karen Hovav, MD, FAAP, has more than 15 years of experience as an attending pediatrician. She has worked in a large academic center in an urban city, a small community hospital, a private practice, and an urgent care clinic.

Edited by:

Sophie Vergnaud, MD

Sophie Vergnaud, MD, is the Senior Medical Director for GoodRx Health. A pulmonologist and hospitalist, she practiced and taught clinical medicine at hospitals in London for a decade before entering a career in health education and technology.

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