Do you have a new PAP machine and no longer need your old machine?

Do you have an extra mask or tubing for your old machine that you never used?

Would you like to donate your unused or gently used equipment?

Chances are, if you've been using PAP therapy for more than a couple of years, you've got an old device hanging around. We're keeping an updated list of local and national organizations that can help you sell or donate your new or gently used equipment to those in need.

1. You don't have health insurance.

This is a no-brainer. If you don't have health insurance, but have sleep apnea, you will need to pay cash for your machine and supplies. 

If you're having a hard time making ends meet, check out the organizations listed in this post that offer free or low-cost CPAP and supplies.

2. You have a high deductible health plan.

Many Americans now have higher deductibles to meet before their health insurance benefits kick in (check out our guide for understanding your health insurance here). While we understand that having a higher deductible usually means lower monthly premiums and that some benefits, like preventative care, are covered before you meet your deductible, almost all plans require you meet your entire individual or family deductible before CPAP and supplies, or sleep studies, are covered. Especially at the beginning of the year, this can mean paying entirely out of pocket for your new CPAP and supplies.

Even if you have insurance, you may prefer to shop online and pay cash for CPAP and supplies. While most online suppliers will not bill your health insurance (most of them aren't contracted with any insurances at all) some will and many will provide you with a list of codes so that you can submit the bill to your insurance. While you won't receive anything back from your insurance, you will receive "credit" towards your deductible. Especially if you or another family members expects to use your insurance throughout the year, you want to make sure every dollar you spend out of pocket is counted towards your deductible (learn about in-network vs. out-of-network deductibles and coverage differences here).

You should also consider using your HSA (health savings account) or FSA (flexible spending account) funds to pay for CPAP and supplies online. Save your receipts!

Like iPhones, CPAP machines have changed a lot over the past few years. The latest models are even starting to look like Apple devices. These changes in the form and function of CPAPs serve very important purposes.

(1) If a CPAP machine is more attractive and user-friendly, someone diagnosed with sleep apnea is more likely to use it.

• They're quieter and smaller.
• It's easier to turn on and off (many turn on automatically once you put on the mask and start breathing).

(2) If the technology allows for wireless transmission of usage data, the CPAP supplier (for some of you that might be us, learn more about "smart machines" here) doesn't have to hassle patients for smartcard download. When compliance data is required by the insurance company, the provider can easily access the data (here's a post where we talk about our process).

• Your CPAP supplier can help you troubleshoot when you're having issues with therapy. They can even adjust the settings remotely on some machines.
• You have access to your usage data, either online or on an app. Knowledge is power.
• If/when your insurance company requires proof of usage for your device rental or purchase or when it's time for new supplies, your supplier can easily obatin the info and send it directly to the insurance company. No need to mess with shipping cards back and forth.

(3) New devices are better at treating sleep apnea. That's a big deal.

So, now that you want a new machine, you're going to ask, "How do I get a new CPAP?"

Are you enrolled in Medicare or have patients who are?

We reviewed Medicare coverage for sleep studies here.

In this post, learn about Medicare Part B coverage for CPAP and other PAP therapy (Part B covers certain doctor's services, out patient care, medical supplies and preventative services).

Don't have health insurance?

Did you just find out that CPAP isn't covered by your insurance?

Are you experiencing financial hardship and need a CPAP machine or supplies?

Need a backup device or a second device for traveling?

Here's a list of organizations that provide low-cost or free CPAP, APAP and bi-level machines and supplies so you can get the sleep you need.

As with any purchase of CPAP equipment, a prescription is required, even if the there is no charge.

It's important to know the basic about the different types of PAP (positive airway pressure) devices that are used to treat sleep apnea. Whether you're newly diagnosed with sleep apnea or a more seasoned user or healthcare provider, this post outlines the basics of each of the devices.

Our goal is to help you understand the differences in the devices or better understand the device you're currently using. Ultimately, we want to help those who suffer from sleep apnea be successful with PAP therapy. Read on!

One of the most obvious and important parts of the entire CPAP rigmarole is finding the right mask. In fact, finding a mask that is comfortable and has a good seal may make a huge difference in how likely you are to succeed with CPAP therapy. Here’s a short and sweet explanation of the different types of CPAP masks.

All PAP machines (CPAPS, bi-level or BiPAP, auto-sets, etc.) use a filter to clean the ambient air (fancy way of saying regular room air) before it is blown through the tubing and into your airway. Replacing the filter is the only type of maintenance that needs to be performed on your CPAP machine (not including the humidifier) .

Filters, like mask cushions and tubing, should be replaced regularly to ensure optimal usage and comfort. Just like the filter for your home air-conditioning or your vacuum cleaner, the filter will get dirty with use. Environmental factors can affect how regularly you need to change your filter. If you smoke or have pets that shed a lot, your filter may get dirtier faster.

Each machine may require a different size of filter. On the newest ResMed AirSense 10 CPAP unit, the filter is located at the left side under a plastic flap that looks like a grate (see picture).

Learn more about the different types of filters and which one is best for you.

Your CPAP’s accessory equipment is a lot like other frequently used health products, such as your toothbrush or a razor: it deteriorates, ceases to function optimally, and can get germy and unsanitary.

Just like you wouldn’t use the same toothbrush for months on end, it’s important to replace your CPAP equipment to make sure that your machine is as clean, effective, and comfortable as possible. However, unlike a toothbrush, the CPAP equipment may not look worn even though it needs to be replaced. That's why it's important to change your equipment following a schedule.

In this post we'll review the following components of your CPAP that should be replaced an how often you should replace them:

• Mask
• Cushions/pillows
• Headgear/chinstrap
• Filters
• Tubing
• Water chamber
• CPAP device