If you have sleep apnea and rely on a CPAP machine to maintain uninterrupted breathing during sleep, a power outage can be a serious concern. In the event of a power outage, your CPAP machine will stop working, which can lead to interrupted breathing and other complications associated with sleep apnea.
In situations where power outages are common or expected, it may be necessary to invest in a backup generator to ensure that your CPAP machine continues to function. A backup generator can provide the necessary power to keep your CPAP machine running even during an extended power outage.
It is important to note that not all backup generators are suitable for powering medical devices such as CPAP machines. You should consult with a healthcare professional or the manufacturer of your CPAP machine to determine the type of generator that is appropriate for your needs.
In addition to a backup generator, there are other measures that you can take to prepare for power outages and ensure uninterrupted CPAP therapy. For example, you can invest in a battery backup system for your CPAP machine, which can provide several hours of power in the event of an outage.
You should also have a plan for what to do in the event of a power outage, such as having a fully charged battery backup system or a portable generator on hand. It is important to make sure that your CPAP machine is always ready for use and that you have a backup power source available in case of emergencies.
In conclusion, if you have sleep apnea and rely on a CPAP machine for uninterrupted breathing during sleep, a backup generator may be necessary for the event of a power outage. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional or the manufacturer of your CPAP machine to determine the appropriate backup power source for your needs and to have a plan in place for emergencies.
CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) is a medical device that helps sleep apnea patients to breathe more comfortably while asleep. It increases air pressure in the user’s throat to keep the air passages open while sleeping.
Table of Contents
What is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a severe sleeping disorder characterized by the repeated stopping and continuation of breathing while sleeping. There are different symptoms and types of sleep apnea. To read more about sleep apnea, you can click here. A CPAP machine is the best treatment for sleep apnea.
Why buy a generator for a CPAP Machine?
When you are at home, you can use your home electricity to power up your CPAP machine. However, when you are outside or traveling, you cannot always find an electric source to run your CPAP machine. What will you do when the power goes out for a long time? Why limit yourself indoors when you can enjoy camping, boondocking, and off the grid living? You don’t need to worry, as you can use a generator to power up your CPAP machine. With the right CPAP generator, you can not only power up your CPAP machine, but you can also use it to run a TV, cooler, ice shaver, coffee maker, or any other appliance in its power range.
Some Pre-requisites before buying a CPAP Machine
The most important thing to check before buying a CPAP machine is its ability to power your CPAP machine. You must also look at the backup time and number of CPAP machines it can manage. Ensure that the generator you intend to buy can be charged through various modes such as AC power, solar panel, generator, and a car outlet. It must be easy to carry and store. We have discussed these features in detail and other qualities you must look for in a CPAP machine in this review’s buying guide section.
Let’s look at the 5 best generators for a CPAP machine.
CPAP Generator Reviews
Image | Product | Features | Ratings | Check Price |
Jackery Explorer 500 Portable Power Station |
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Rockpals RP300W Portable Power Station |
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FlashFish EA150 Portable Power Station |
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Paxcess 330-watt Portable Power Station |
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Suaoki G500 Portable Power Station |
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1. Jackery Explorer 500 Portable Power Station – Overall Best
CPAP Usage: Jackery Explorer 500 is an ideal option for CPAP. It supports 12V-30V CPAP machines and can power your machine for up to 40 hours (if only used for CPAP).
Most of the CPAP machines are designed to run on both AC and DC voltage, so you can easily power two CPAP machines simultaneously with this generator.
Pure Sine Wave: It is a pure sine wave inverter that produces clean and stable power. The pure sine wave is essential for a CPAP machine because it is a sensitive medical device.
Power Output: This portable power station from Jackery can produce 1000 starting watts and 500 running watts. It means users can’t connect devices rating over 500 watts.
Battery Capacity: Jackery 500 comes with a Lithium-ion battery having 518Wh (watt-hour) battery capacity.
This battery capacity is quite enough to power other devices along with a CPAP for a long.
Battery Recharging Ways: Users can recharge the battery via a solar panel, carport, or a wall outlet. Three recharging options provide convenience to the people, especially to CPAP users. You can charge your generator’s battery at any time or by any method to power your CPAP.
Recharge Time: An AC wall outlet will recharge the battery in 7.5 hours, and a car outlet will recharge it within 16 hours. But when using the Jackery SolarSaga 100-watt solar panel, the battery will take around 9.5 hours to recharge under full sun.
Keep in mind that recharging time varies from a different location, temperature, and weather.
A charging cable is included for both the carport and AC wall outlet, but you have to separately purchase the Jackery solar panel.
MPPT Controller: Jackery Explorer 500 features a built-in MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) Controller for quick and smart solar charging. It is more efficient as compared to PWM (Pulse Width Modulation)
Power Outlets: The power outlets include one 110 Volt AC outlet, three USB-A 5 Volt 2.4 Ampere ports, one 12 Volt 10 Ampere DC outlet, and two 2 Volt 7 Ampere DC outputs.
LCD Display: It displays both input and output along with battery status in percentage. It helps users know the status and activity of their generator.
Flashlight: A built-in flashlight includes two modes: normal mode and SOS mode. The SOS mode is for emergencies.
To activate the SOS mode, you have to double press the light button.
Automatic Shutdown: Jackery 500 is a power-saving generator. It automatically turns off in 12 hours when being drawn under 10 watts of power.
Safety and Protection: The Battery Management System (BMS) protects the users and their connected devices. It manages over-temperature protection, over-current protection, over-voltage protection, and more.
Size and Weight: This CPAP generator is lightweight and compact. Its weight is only 13.3 pounds, and its dimensions are 11.8 x 7.6 x 9.5 inches.
Warranty: Jackery Explorer 500 includes a 2-year warranty.
My Opinion:
Pros: Jackery 500 is the best portable power station for CPAP machines. It is easy to use and light in weight. It comes with a higher battery capacity and features a built-in MPPT Controller for fast solar charging. Also, Explorer 500 includes a flashlight with SOS mode, an automatic shutdown feature, and a Battery Management System.
Cons: It only has an AC outlet.
2. Rockpals RP300W Portable Power Station – Pass-Through Charging
CPAP Usage: Rockpals RP300W is another best portable power station for the CPAP machine. Use the Rockpals DC converter to power ResMed AirSense 10 for up to 2 nights or Philips Respironics DreamStation for up to 3 nights with heater/humidifier off.
Pure Sine Wave: It produces a pure sine wave, ideal for a sensitive medical device like CPAP.
Power Output: You will get 600 watts of peak power and 300 watts of rated power. Avoid exceeding the 300-watt power as the generator will go into protection mode. And the only way to reset the generator is to charge it via a wall charger.
Battery Capacity: It is powered by a Lithium-ion battery with 280Wh (watt-hour) battery capacity.
Battery Recharging Ways: The battery of Rockpals RP300W can be recharged using a solar panel, a carport, or an AC wall outlet.
Recharge Time: A 60-watt or 100-watt solar panel can recharge its battery within 5 to 7 hours. Or, if there is no sunny day, recharge your battery within 6 to 7 hours via a 12 Volt carport or your home’s AC outlet.
Pass-through Charging: Rockpals RP300W supports pass-through charging. It means you can power your CPAP machine while the battery is in recharging mode.
Power Outlets: It comes with one 110 volt AC outlet, three 12 Volt 4 Ampere DC outlets, one 24 Volt 3 Ampere DC outlet, and one 12 Volt 8 Ampere DC outlet, along with two 2.1 Ampere USB ports and two Quick Charge 3.0 USB ports.
You can either power your CPAP machine via an AC outlet or a DC outlet. Also, more than one CPAP can be easily connected to it.
LCD Display: The control panel is also featured with an LCD that shows solar/AC input and AC output watts/voltage.
Flashlight: A built-in LED flashlight is another useful feature of this CPAP generator. It includes two lighting modes. One is the immobile white light mode, and the second one is the SOS mode.
Automatic Shutdown: Rockpals RP300W is equipped with an automatic shutdown feature to save power. If not in use for up to 10 hours, it will turn off automatically.
Safety and Protection: A Battery Management System (BMS) is there for protection against over-temperature, overcharge, over-current, over-voltage, and more.
Size and Weight: It is light and more compact than Jackery Explorer 500.
This Rockpals power station’s weight is only 7.5 pounds, and it is 7.4 inches in length, 5.9 inches wide, and 5.5 inches in height.
Warranty: A 2-year warranty
My Opinion:
Pros: Rockpals RP300W is ultra-compact and light in weight. It produces clean energy and allows pass-through charging. It features a variety of outlets and a flashlight with SOS mode. Also, RP300W has BMS for ultimate protection.
Cons: Its on/off buttons are easy to press accidentally.
3. FlashFish EA150 Portable Power Station – Lightest CPAP Generator
CPAP Usage: People suffering from Obstructive Sleep Apnea can also buy this FlashFish EA150 solar generator to power their CPAP machines during power outages or camping trips.
CPAP users can either use an AC outlet or a DC outlet to power their CPAP machines. But never forget to use DC to DC converter and turn off the humidifier.
Pure Sine Wave: It delivers clean power suitable for all vulnerable electronic devices, including CPAP.
Power Output: FlashFish EA150 can produce 200 starting watts and 150 running watts.
Its AC output port can power devices less than 150 watts, and the DC output port can power devices less than 120 watts. Every time, make sure you are not exceeding the power limit; otherwise, the generator will go into protection mode.
Battery Capacity: It features a Lithium-ion battery with 166Wh (watt-hour) battery capacity.
Battery Recharging Ways: You have three different options to recharge your battery. You can either use a wall outlet, a 12 Volt car socket, or a solar panel to recharge this FlashFish EA150.
Recharge Time: If you are using an 18 Volt 50 Watt solar panel, its battery will get fully recharged within 7 to 9 hours.
Power Outlets: The main panel of FlashFish EA150 carries two 110 Volt AC outlets, two 12 Volt 5 Ampere DC outlets, one 5 Volt 2.4 Ampere USB port, and two Quick Charge 3.0 USB ports.
LCD Display: It also has an LCD panel that displays the input charging power, AC output, DC output, and battery level.
Safety and Protection: This CPAP generator from FlashFish is also featured with a Battery Management System (BMS). It offers over-current protection, low-voltage protection, over-voltage protection, and short-circuits protection; along with overheat protection and lock-on protection.
Size and Weight: It is even lighter than Rockpals RP300W. Its weight is only 4.5 pounds, and its dimensions are 8.3 x 4.7 x 5.1 inches.
My Opinion:
Pros: FlashFish EA150 is the lightest CPAP generator. It gives a pure sine wave and has two quick-charge USB ports and AC outlets. Also, it includes an LCD display and a BMS safety feature.
Cons: It doesn’t allow pass-through charging.
4. Paxcess 330-watt Portable Power Station – Wireless Charging
CPAP Usage: You can either use a 110 Volt AC plug or a 12 Volt DC plug to power your CPAP machine. It is recommended to purchase a DC to DC converter to make this generator work for your CPAP. Also, remove or turn off the heater/humidifier to get peaceful sleep for up to 3 nights.
Pure Sine Wave: This Paxcess 330-watt generator is also a pure sine wave inverter. It takes care of your sensitive electronic devices much better than a modified sine wave inverter.
Power Output: It can give 700 peak watts and 330 rated watts. Always avoid exceeding the rated power limit of 330 watts because once exceeded, the generator will automatically shut down.
Battery Capacity: Its battery capacity is 288.6Wh (watt-hour).
Battery Recharging Ways: Like all the CPAP generators mentioned above, you can also recharge its battery using a wall outlet, a carport, or a solar panel.
Recharge Time: A compatible 100-watt solar panel will recharge its battery in 5 to 8 hours, depending on the sun’s appearance. A wall outlet can recharge the battery in 5 to 6 hours, and within 7 to 8 hours, your battery will be fully recharged with a car charger.
MPPT Controller: A built-in MPPT Solar Charge Controller ensures efficient battery charging via a solar panel.
Power Outlets: If we look at this CPAP generator’s power panel, it offers eight power outlets that include both AC and DC plugs.
It has two upgraded 12 Volt 5 Ampere DC ports and one 12 Volt 10 Ampere DC port. Also, we have three Quick Charge 3.0 USB ports, one Type-C port, and one upgraded 110 Volt AC outlet.
Wireless Charging: Paxcess 330-watt generator also offers a wireless charging feature. A 5-watt wireless charger is located at the top of the unit. It is compatible with most Qi-enabled devices.
LCD Display: It shows the input, AC output, DC output, and the remaining life of the battery.
Flashlight: A built-in flashlight with SOS mode.
Safety and Protection: Thanks to the Battery Management System (BMS) that gives overcharge protection, over/under voltage protection, overcurrent protection, and short circuit protection along with overload protection and temperature control.
Size and Weight: The weight of this CPAP generator (7.1 pounds) is almost the same as the weight of Rockpals RP300W.
My Opinion:
Pros: Paxcess 330-watt generator is a highly portable CPAP generator. It features an upgraded battery and power outlets. It has a wireless charging feature that makes it different from other power stations. Also, it has an MPPT Controller for efficient charging.
Cons: Only one AC outlet is available.
5. Suaoki G500 Portable Power Station – Heaviest CPAP Generator
CPAP Usage: The last but not the least CPAP generator is the Suaoki G500. You can either power ResMed AirSense 10 or Philips DreamStation for about 4 to 5 nights with this generator.
To use your CPAP machine, you must have a 12 Volt DC converter, and you should turn off the humidifier to get extended runtime.
Pure Sine Wave: It gives pure sine wave output that is essential for a CPAP machine.
Power Output: Suaoki G500 provides 600 watts of surge power and 300 watts of rated power.
Battery Capacity: It has a Lithium battery with an ultra-high capacity of 500Wh (watt-hour).
Battery Recharging Ways: Solar panel, car outlet, and an AC wall outlet
Recharge Time: If you are going to use a Suaoki 100-watt solar panel, its battery will be recharged in 7 to 8 hours. Also, via a wall outlet, it will get recharged in 7 to 8 hours.
MPPT Controller: This CPAP generator is also equipped with an MPPT Controller to increase the solar charging efficiency.
Power Outlets: Suaoki G500 comes with two 110 Volt AC outlets, one 12 Volt 10 Ampere DC outlet, two 12 Volt 3 Ampere DC outlets, and three Quick Charge 3.0 USB ports (2 x USB-A, 1 x USB-C).
LCD Display: The LCD screen shares some important information related to the generator.
Safety and Protection: It also includes the BMS system for excellent protection of your attached devices.
Size and Weight: It is heavier than all the CPAP generators mentioned above, but still, it only weighs 15 pounds. Also, its dimensions are 11 x 7.5 x 8.3 inches.
Warranty: Suaoki G500 is backed by a 2-year warranty.
My Opinion:
Pros: Suaoki G500 is a reliable machine with excellent battery capacity. It includes an MPPT Controller for efficient charging and has a variety of power plugs. Also, G500 is easy to use and protected by BMS.
Cons: It is comparatively heavier. Also, it is not a waterproof power station.
Buyer’s Guide
Users must have to consider the following factors at the time of purchasing the best CPAP generators.
Compatibility
First of all, check if the CPAP generator is compatible with the CPAP machine you have. Compatibility is one of the most important things to consider when buying a CPAP generator. Many CPAP generators are compatible with 90% of the CPAP machines, but it is still necessary to check.
Power Needs
The next thing to consider is your power needs. If you plan to run any other appliances along with a CPAP machine, take their wattage into account. Generally, people use phone/laptop chargers, coolers, and devices with 100-150 watt power on a CPAP generator. It is better to have a cushion of extra power when it comes to a CPAP machine generator.
Pure Sine Wave
A CPAP machine is a sensitive medical device; hence, it needs pure sine waves. Inverters with modified sine waves are not advisable for CPAP machines. So, make sure you are buying a generator that produces pure sine waves.
Battery Capacity
A CPAP generator with a higher battery capacity can power your medical device for a long. Take an example of Jackery Explorer 500 that comes with a battery capacity of 518Wh (watt-hour). This generator can easily power a CPAP machine for up to 5 nights. But if you are a traveler and go on long trips, then a generator with a 1000Wh battery capacity would be ideal for you.
Portability
To power your CPAP machine outdoors, you must need a portable generator. This article has all the lightweight and compact generators that are easy to lift and move.
The lightest CPAP generator is the FlashFish EA150 that only weighs 4.5 pounds.
Power Outlets
Many CPAP machines operate on both AC and DC voltages, so it is up to you to either uses a 110V AC plug or a DC plug to power your medical device.
If you have a 24 Volt CPAP machine, make sure your CPAP generator features a 24 Volt outlet. Or, if you own a 12 Volt CPAP machine, make sure you are selecting a generator having 12 Volt ports.
Battery Management System
Battery Management System is the most useful feature of CPAP generators that protect numerous factors beyond our control.
It gives over-voltage protection, low-voltage protection, overheats protection, and over-current protection, along with short-circuiting protection and lock-on protection.
Display
When you have a generator with a fully loaded display, it becomes easier to use it. The latest models tell you about battery percentage, recharging status, and power is drawn.
Warranty
All the CPAP generators on our list are of high quality and will not create any problems soon. However, a warranty adds value to your purchase and gives you peace of mind. In case of any unfortunate event, you have a warranty to claim and get your generator sorted out.
Price
A basic CPAP generator will not cost you much. However, if you want more power and the latest features, you will have to pay more. We suggest you never compromise on quality as it is critical for your wellness.
FAQs
How much power does a CPAP machine use?
Before purchasing a CPAP generator, it is necessary to determine how many watts your CPAP machine uses. Most of the CPAP machines use 30 to 60 watts of power, so make sure you are buying a generator that can produce more power than the CPAP requirement.
How can I calculate the backup time for my CPAP device?
You can find out the backup time with the help of a simple formula given below.
Backup Time: Generator Power Output*0.8/CPAP Machine operating Power
For example, your CPAP machine’s operating power is 60 watts, and the generator has a power rating of 500 watts. The backup time will be 6-7 hours. For a CPAP machine with 30 watts of power, it will be 13-14 hours.
How to lower the power rating of my CPAP machine?
You can reduce the power drawn by your CPAP machine by removing the humidifier part of the CPAP machine. Only do this if you can manage without it. Secondly, you can use a DC adapter instead of an AC adapter to conserve power and enhance your generator’s backup time.
What other devices a CPAP generator power?
Other than a CPAP machine, the generator can power any device falling under its rated power limit. They will be mostly small appliances like mobile/laptop charger.
Can a single generator power 2 CPAP machines?
Yes. If the generator has more than one CPAP plug output, it can power 2 CPAP machines. Please keep in mind that the backup time will be half for both machines.
Can I take my CPAP generator/machine on a plane?
A CPAP generator is not allowed on a plane. However, there is no restriction in taking a CPAP machine along with you.
What care should I take for my CPAP generator?
Always keep your generator in a dry place away from water and snow. Make sure it is kept under the shade and not exposed to sunlight. If you plan to store your machine for a long time, ensure that it is completely charged and check it periodically.
What are the advantages of using a solar generator for CPAP?
Advantages:
A solar generator serves as a handy power bank during outdoor trips like camping, hiking, and others. There will be no need to find electricity hook-ups in campsites to power your CPAP. Also, during emergencies like power outages caused by natural disasters having a solar generator is quite useful.
Solar generators are highly portable because they are light in weight and have a compact design. So, as a traveler, you can easily carry them anywhere with ease.
- Solar generators don’t require fuel to run, so it is an eco-friendly option for CPAP users.
- They are energy-efficient as well.
- You can recharge the solar generator battery via a carport or an AC wall outlet.
What type of solar panel is best to use for a CPAP generator?
Solar panels collect solar energy and convert it into electricity. But crystalline solar panels are different from amorphous panels.
Crystalline solar panels are more efficient in collecting and converting electricity as compared to amorphous solar panels. They are further divided into polycrystalline and monocrystalline panels. But these crystalline panels are quite expensive. So, if you don’t have enough budget for a crystalline panel, then an amorphous panel is the only option for you.
Conclusion
Now that you know everything about a CPAP generator, you can select one from the list above and make your life easy. Don’t compromise on your outdoor trips if you suffer from sleep apnea because a portable CPAP generator is there to help you.