CPAP Battery Backup

CPAP battery backup systems can make it easier to integrate CPAP therapy into a busy and active lifestyle. Some CPAP users feel anxiety about what might happen during a power outage, and others may feel that using the machine means they can no longer go camping or take vacations. Happily, there are ways to ensure that a CPAP machine always has power, even during power outages or when traveling to places without electricity.

A battery backup can ensure power to your CPAP.

A machine with an integrated battery is one of the simplest options for a CPAP battery backup. This means that if the electricity were to go out, the CPAP machine's internal battery would power the machine without interruption. The battery, in turn, charges when the machine is plugged into a working electrical outlet.

The obvious advantage to this type of CPAP battery backup is the simplicity of switching back and forth from electrical to battery power, which requires absolutely no effort from the person using the machine. The battery in an integrated backup battery machine is also lighter-weight than other backup systems, as most CPAP machines require 12-volt batteries. 12-volt batteries are about the same size and weight as a car battery. However, the machines with integrated backup batteries generally weigh less than ten pounds. The biggest disadvantage to systems with an integrated battery is the cost, between $450 to $600 dollars per unit. Another disadvantage is that these systems are not automatic machines, and do require you to push a button to start them. However, these systems may be the perfect choice for those who are willing to spend the extra money for peace of mind in a power outage.

A sealed lithium ion backup battery with a built-in 12-volt outlet is one recent option offered by some of the major CPAP manufacturers. Since these batteries are sealed, there is no need to worry about battery leaks, and the system is waterproof. These handy batteries can weigh as little as 2.5 pounds and come with a travel bag, making them very portable. Lithium ion batteries can be rather expensive at over $200 dollars, but this price does include the necessary cords, batteries, battery charger, and the neat-and-tidy travel bag for the whole setup. These batteries can only power a CPAP machine for about 12 hours before recharging due to their small size. For longer trips, it needs more than one battery or a power source to recharge the battery. This type of battery cannot utilize solar power or DC power sources, as the battery charger needs an actual AC outlet for power.

It is essential to check with the manufacturer of the CPAP machine before setting up any type of homemade battery backup system, as using certain types of batteries or cords may void the warranty or service plan on a machine. In addition, it's wise to consult a friend or family member experienced in electrical engineering to ensure that the battery setup will not be in danger of exploding due to power surges. All batteries with exposed terminals have the potential to spark, so don't use batteries with oxygen therapy. Now that all the terrifying warnings are out there, realize that a homemade battery backup system may be the only option in some circumstances.

Unfortunately, CPAP manufacturers have not yet produced a battery backup option to power CPAP machines for longer than one or two nights. To get anywhere from 3 to 7 days of operation for a CPAP, most machines need a deep-cycle marine battery. This type of battery is heavy, weighing 40 to 70 pounds, and costs about $50 to $60 dollars for a battery rated at 85-amp hours. Look at the amp hour rating listed on the machine and compare it to that of the battery to find out how long an 85-amp hour battery would power a specific machine. You'll want to get a battery that carries a rating that's one and a half to two times higher than that actually required by the machine. If this seems confusing, another great option is to call the manufacturer to ask how long a specific battery would power that specific CPAP machine.

12-volt Cord Terminal Clips

Along with the actual battery, the machine will need the 12-volt cord designed by the manufacturer to fit the specific CPAP machine hooked to the battery, and an additional 12-volt accessory cord with a DC outlet. The latter type of cord is available at Wal-Mart or Radio Shack for around 20 dollars. The CPAP machine's 12-volt cord plugs into the machine at one end and the 12-volt accessory cord at the other end. Then hook the accessory cord to the positive and negative terminals of the battery.

For shorter periods away from power, power supplies intended to be a quick-start battery for a car are another option that's much simpler to set up and operate. They weigh around 5 lbs, cost about $60 dollars, and the DC cord from the CPAP machine plugs directly into the DC outlet on the battery. This eliminates the connection with open battery terminals that can cause sparking, and the quick-start unit is small enough to fit in a glove compartment.

Using a CPAP machine for sleep apnea doesn't have to mean being tied to home, and power outages are nothing to fear. With the right battery backup system, CPAP machines can go anywhere and allow users to get a good night's sleep away from home.

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