If you have Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), most sleep specialists may recommend the use of Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy. This therapy is provided with the help of  CPAP machines.

When you have sleep apnea, you suffer from obstructed airways when asleep, which makes it difficult for you to breathe throughout the night. A CPAP machine helps sleep apnea patients breathe better by directing pressurized air to their airways. The air helps keep their lungs open so they can comfortably take in enough oxygen and exhale carbon dioxide without interruptions.

If you have undergone a sleep study and you’ve been diagnosed with sleep apnea, you may be thinking of buying a CPAP machine. Considering that CPAP machines are also used with  CPAP masks and other accessories, you may need to buy these CPAP supplies. Well, to help you come up with an estimated cost of your CPAP therapy, we give you a breakdown of a CPAP machine's cost and its related accessories.

What Influences the Cost of A CPAP Machine

The cost of a CPAP machine varies depending on various factors, as explained below:

Features: 

CPAP machines that have advanced features such as heated humidifiers and automatic air adjustment cost more. Standard CPAP machines are the cheapest as the air pressure levels are manually adjusted. Other machines, such as Automatic Positive Airflow Pressure (APAP) machines that have more advanced features, are more costly as they provide more comfort.

Machine Types: 

There are three types of sleep apnea treatment therapy machines: CPAP, APAP, and BiPAP.

A CPAP machine provides only one air pressure level when the patient inhales and exhales. BiPAP machines provide two different levels of air pressure continuous flow. BiPAP machines, due to the difference in pressure levels, enable patients to breathe more naturally. The BiPAP machine also comes with more advanced features. APAP machines are auto CPAP machines. The machine automatically adjusts the pressure air levels in line with your breathing. Among the three machines, a CPAP machine is the cheapest. An APAP machine is more expensive than a standard CPAP machine. The BiPAP machine is the most expensive.

Size: 

CPAP machine’s cost also varies according to the size. Conventional CPAP machines made for home use are bigger but cheaper than travel CPAP machines. A travel CPAP machine is a portable CPAP machine that you can carry with you when traveling. It’s lightweight and compact and can fit in your carrier bag or car. Notably, this machine is not a replacement for the standard CPAP machine made for home use, as the former is meant to be used when traveling. The cost of a travel CPAP machine may range between $450 and $1200.

Brand: 

We have different manufacturers of CPAP machines, including Philips Respironics, AirSep, and ResMed. You may have to pay more if you purchase your machine from a reputable brand. The good news is that you’re guaranteed quality if you buy your device from reputable brands compared to buying from new entrants in the market. Besides, such providers, despite their high cost, offer warranties that run for two or more years.

How Much Does A CPAP Machine Cost

A CPAP machine's cost ranges between $250 and $1,000 without factoring in the price of other CPAP medical equipment.

As mentioned earlier, the cost will depend on the type of machine, the features, the size, and the brand.

Here’s a simple cost breakdown of CPAP machines based on their types.

Does Insurance Cover A CPAP Machine Cost?

The amount of money you’ll part with while buying your CPAP machine also depends if you have medical insurance coverage or not. While some policies cover the whole cost, some companies will offer insurance coverage for part of the cost. For instance, Medicare and Medicaid often cover the cost of sleep apnea CPAP machines and their accessories. Notably, most health insurance providers will not cover the cost of a travel CPAP machine as they consider this a luxury item.

How Much Do CPAP Supplies Cost?

CPAP machine costs also include the costs of accessories and supplies. Some of the CPAP accessories that you might need to use with your CPAP machine are:

• CPAP masks
• Hose and tubing
• CPAP headgear
• CPAP humidifier
• CPAP supplies such as filters, mask wipes, and disinfectants

These CPAP accessories are meant to enhance your sleep apnea treatment. They make the therapy more effective and comfortable.

Also, you may need to replace some parts of your CPAP machine regularly to avoid wear and tear. You’ll also need to budget for cleaning supplies such as CPAP disinfectants and tube brushes to keep your machine clean.

Here’s a cost breakdown of the common CPAP accessories and supplies:

A CPAP mask - The cost of a CPAP mask ranges between $50 and $160. The cost of the mask will depend on the mask type, features, and materials used. The mask comes with a frame, headgear, filter, and cushion. The filter and mask cushions should be replaced every three to six months.

CPA tubing and hoses – A CPAP tubing costs between $5 and $15. The price will depend on the type of hose or tubing you choose. For instance, heated hoses are pricier than standard ones. Also, the tubing should be replaced every six to twelve months.

Humidifier water chamber – A CPAP humidifier is needed to prevent a dry nose by moistening the air you’re breathing. A humidifier costs between $150 and $300. The humidifier chamber needs to be replaced annually, and a replacement can cost you between $20 and $40.

CPAP headgear and chin strap - If you’re an active sleeper, you may need headgear to keep your mask in place as you sleep. A headgear costs between $30 and $50. A chin strap is a headgear that is meant to keep a mouth breather mouth shut to reduce leaks and promote nose breathing. The average cost of a chin strap is around $30.

Filters - Disposable CPAP filters cost between $1 and $10, while reusable ones will cost you $5 to $20. You can also go for bacteria filters if you need extra protection against bacteria and molds. You can buy bacteria filters for $20.

Cleaning CPAP supplies – Cleaning your CPAP machine regularly can enhance its longevity. Besides, a clean CPAP machine also means quality therapy. Some cleaning supplies that you might need and their cost include:

• CPAP disinfectant - $15
• Mask wipes - $10
• Tube brushes - $15
• Mask and tube soap - $5
• CPAP cleaning machine - $60 to $400

Travel accessories - If you have a travel CPAP machine, you might need some accessories to use with your machine while traveling. For instance, you might need a carrying case which will cost you around $50. You may also need a power adapter whose average cost is $60.

Conclusion

A CPAP machine is an effective treatment option for sleep apnea patients. The cost of a standard CPAP machine is between $250 and $1000. When considering the cost of your machine, remember to factor in the price of other CPAP accessories that are meant to make your therapy more effective.

If you’re looking to buy a CPAP machine, you can get one at  No Insurance Medical Supplies. Remember to check with your insurance company, as they may agree to cover the whole or part of the cost of the CPAP machine and its related accessories.