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M Series BIPAP Plus with Bi-Flex

The M Series BIPAP Plus is a small and feature packed Bilevel, that looks more like a stylish clock radio than a BIPAP.

It easily packs away in your carry on luggage and can be used with a DC Power Source.

Manufactured by Philips Respironics. 3% of BiLevel Machine product buyers choose this product.

4.7 of 5 7 Reviews

This product no longer available and this information is for reference only. Newer Model Available: PR System One REMstar BiPAP Pro with Bi-Flex.

Replacement Parts

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1-800-356-5221(Mon-Fri 8AM-10PM CST, Sat 8AM-6PM CST)

Product Features

The M Series Bipap Plus differs from a CPAP in that it switches back and forth between two pressure levels, one higher and one lower, rather than providing one continuous pressure level. The pressure upon inhalation is higher to hold the airway open, but as the user exhales, the pressure drops to a preset lower level. A bilevel machine responds well to people with very high CPAP pressure needs, weak chest wall muscles, lung disease or other health problems that keep them from being able to exhale against a CPAP pressure.

Specifications

This Product Includes...

M Series BIPAP Plus Device
6 ft Flexible Tubing
Carrying case with padded shoulder strap
AC Power cord (3ft)
Reusable gray foam filter (2)
Disposable ultra-fine filter (1)
Setup Guide

Product Specifications

The Respironics BiPAP Plus Bilevel machine includes the following features:

Environmental

Temperature 41 deg F to 95 deg F (Operating) -4 deg F to 140 deg F (Storage)
Relative Humidity 15 to 95% non-condensing (Operating and Storage)
Atmospheric Pressure 83 to 102kPa (Operating) 5600 feet to sea level (Storage)

Physical

Dimensions 7.5"(L) x 5.0"(W) x 3.1"(H) 19.0 cm(L) x 12.7 cm(W) x 7.9 cm(H)
Weight2.2 lbs

Electrical

AC Voltage Source 100 to 240 V, 50/60 Hz
DC Voltage Source 24V (when operated with the external DC power adapter accessory)
AC Current 1.25 A maximum
DC Current 3.0 A maximum
Protection against electric shock CLass II
Degree of protection against electric shock Type BF Applied Part
Modes of Operation Continuous
Electromagnetic Compatibility The device meets the requirements of EN 60601-1-2, second edition (2001)
Fuses There are no user-replaceable fuses.

Pressure

Output 4 to 25 cm H2O
Pressure Stability 4 to 10 cm H2O (+/- 0.5 CM H2O), Greater Than 10 to 25 cm H2O (+/- 1.0 CM H2O)
Sound Pressure Level 30 dB(A)
Maximum Flow <35 LPM

Control Accuracy

IPAP (4 to 25 cm H2O) +/- 1.5 cm H2O from static setpoint
EPAP (4 to 25 cm H2O) +/- 1.5 cm H2O from static setpoint
Ramp Duration (0-45 minutes) +/- 10% of setting
Rise Time (0.1 to 0.4 seconds) +/- 25%
Miscellaneous: Lighted LEDs, Auto on/off, mask off alert, patient reminders

Associated Specifications
Direct Battery Operation: Indicates which machines have a DC port in which you can use to connect a battery pack or a deep cycle marine battery with an optional DC cable. This is different from an integrated battery that works only with the machine it was designed for. (i.e. Everest CPAP Machine) see property Integrated Battery	Yes
Auto Altitude Adjustment: Altitude Adjustment is defined as the machine's ability to compensate for changes in altitude. Compensation can either occur manually or automatically. Manual adjustments occur within the Setup Menu and must be set by the user. Automatic requires no user intervention.	Auto
Auto Pressure Adjustment: This property defines whether the machine automatically adjusts pressure to meet the needs of the CPAP user on a breath-by-breath basis. All APAP machines are defined as 'Auto Adjusting', but some BiPAP's also use an Auto feature on both the IPAP and EPAP. If not marked, Yes, assume the machine does not have AUTO capabilities.	No
Heated Humidifier: This indicates which heated humidifier works best with the listed CPAP machine. In some instances, Built-in is used to describe a machine/humidifier combination system. The Fisher and Paykel HC150 was used for machines that do not have an integrated or built in humidifier system.	M Series Heated
Manufacturer: This is the company that produces the product being compared.	Respironics
Advanced Software/Data: Identifies which machines are data capable and have the ability to track your therapy progress over time. The machine captures key metrics like AHI (Apnea/Hypopnea Index), Leakage, and most pressure used. Depending on the machine, the data can be retrieved through an on Machine Screen Display (MSD), through Optional Software (OS), and/or through SmartCode (SC).	MSD
Travel Sized: Looking to travel? We have found some machines are easier to travel with than others. These smaller and more lightweight machines are still robust enough for constant daily use as well as travel.	Yes
Pressure Range: A CPAP (Constant Positive Air Pressure) delivers continuous airflow at a prescribed pressure at 4cm to 30cm. APAP operates between a range and BiPAP machines are a mix of ranges and constant pressures. This pressure is measured in centimeters of water pressure (H2O) and 4-20cm is average pressure range on most CPAP machines.	4-25cm H2O
Voltage Range: Domestic Voltage is the voltage that is used with a standard wall outlet in the United States and ranges from 100-120 volts. International Voltage can range from 220v-240v AC.	100-240V AC
Data Card: This property marks the machines that have the ability to record performance data on a removable card. Some machines that are flagged as having software (seeOptional Software), do not have removable memory cards, rather instead, records information on-board and must use a download cable to retrieve the data from the machine.	No
Auto ON/OFF: This feature turns the machines off and on when putting on or taking off the mask. When you put your mask on the machines senses you breathing and turns itself on. Take off the mask and the machine turns off.	Yes
Under 3 lbs: This measures only the weight of the machine and does not include total weight of power cables, bag, additional batteries or non-built-in humidifiers.	Yes
Built-In Humidifier: Identifies which CPAP has a humidifier that is built into the CPAP. Built-In humidifiers cannot be separated from the CPAP machine.	No
Type: This identifies the machine as continuous, auto adjusting, or bilevel operation. This does not identify whether the machine automatically adjusts pressure. Auto adjusting refers to APAP, whereas BiPAP Auto is differentiated using the Auto Pressure Adjustment property. BiPAP machines are defined further using Spontaneous or Timed properties. A CPAP machine blows one constant pressure of air into your passageway throughout the night. Your ideal pressure was determined during your sleep study. A BiPAP machine delivers two separate pressures of air; One when the patient inhales and a separate pressure when they exhale. The machine alternates between the two set pressures to help optimize your sleep apnea treatment. An APAP machine automatically adjusts on a breath by breath basis to blow the minimum pressure needed to keep your airway open during sleep. This allows your machine to provide you with your ideal pressure nightly.	BiPAP
Optional Software: Software is an option on some CPAP machines. The software can give details on compliance and performance. The patient or physician downloads the data from the CPAP machine to determine how long a patient has used their machine each night and how well the machine is working to stop Apnea/Hypopnea events. This property shows the software package to use for machine that has the ability to transfer data to your computer and report Hours of Usage. See Advanced Software for a list of machines that can report AHI or Leakage.	No
Machine Weight: This is the actual weight of the CPAP Machine without any accessories, power cord, or humidifier. Machines with a weight 3lbs or less are also identified in the Under 3 lbs property.	2.2 lbs
Optional DC Cable: A 'Yes' answer indicates that the CPAP Machine has an optional DC cable that plugs directly into a DC port (see _Direct Battery Operation_). This allows you to use a DC power source, such as a battery or car cigarette lighter. Although some cables already come with battery terminal leads, some DC cables will need a separate part that connects the cigarette lighter adapter to another adapter with terminal leads.	Yes
Warranty: Warranty is the length of time that the manufacturer will guarantee a product to be free of defects. Warranties vary in length depending on manufacturer, but generally all machines come with a 2 Year Warranty.	2 Years
Mask Off Alert: This feature detects excessive mask leaks due to poor cushion seal or when a user stops therapy by removing a mask when in use. The alert can be in the form of an audible alarm (ALARM) or a text message on the unit's LCD display (LCD).	LCD; ALARM
EPAP Pressure Range: This Property lists the operating range for the Exhalation Positive Airway Pressure (EPAP). This is the pressure setting used when you exhale. EPAP is always lower than the IPAP (inhalation) pressure, making breathing out easier and more comfortable.	4-25cm H2O
Heated Humidifier Type: This property identifies how the machine incorporates a Heated Humidifier. “Build In” humidifiers are built into the CPAP machine and cannot be separated from the machine. “Integrated” humidifiers connect directly to the CPAP machine and they can only be used with compatible CPAP machines. With “Integrated” humidifiers, the CPAP machine, can be separated and used without the humidifier. CPAP machines that do not have a built in humidifier and do not have an integrated humidifier option have to use a “Stand Alone” humidifier as the machine’s heated humidifier option. “Stand Alone” humidifiers can be used with any machine and connect to the CPAP machine with an additional hose.	Integrated
Integrated Battery: An integrated battery pack attaches to and functions seamlessly with the machine it is integrated with. It allows your CPAP to run on AC and fail over to the DC battery only if necessary.	No
Easy Breathing: Pressure Relief is a feature that lowers your therapy pressure to help with difficulties breathing against the machine's airflow, providing a more comfortable and natural breathing pattern. Assistance can occur on the Exhalation, on the Inhalation, and on both exhalation and inhalation at the same time.	Bi-Flex
RainOut Reduction: Manufacturers are finding ways to reduce the amount of water that collects in the CPAP hose when using a Heated Humidifier. The Rainout Reduction feature varies by manufacturer and machine and can be anything from an integrated heated hose, to technology that measures the humidity at the mask and adjusts the humidity to reduce rainout.	No
Entire Weight: This is the combined weight of the machine, heated humidifier, power cables, bag and hose.	5.5 lbs
Sound Level: This is the level of sound the machine produces at a pressure of 10cm, standing 1 meter away or roughly 3 feet from machine. Measured in Decibels, the values also indicate whether the machine is considered a "quiet CPAP"; see Quiet property.	30 dB
Spontaneous: Spontaneous (S) mode tells the machine to start blowing at IPAP pressure with no specific interval set. The machine must wait and detect a break in the breathing cycle before reacting, switching from exhalation to inhalation. If a backup rate is needed, then the unit will need a time interval setting and will be marked 'Yes' on the Timed property.	No
Ramp: The Ramp feature allows the user to start treatment at a lower pressure to fall asleep with, gradually raising the pressure over a set time. This is a comfort setting and can set from 0 to 45 minutes on most CPAP machines.	Yes
Entire Size: This is the combined dimensions of the CPAP with the Heated humidifier.	8.25" x 8.2" x 4"
Timed: Timed (T) or Spontaneous Timed (ST) modes provide a customizable backup rate that forces the machine to switch from exhalation to inhalation. In ST Mode, the machine monitors the breathing cycle and switches from EPAP to IPAP once the backup time is met or whenever the break is detected through the sensors; whichever occurs first. The time aspect is only meant to act as a backup respiratory rate to the (S) function (see Spontaneous). This is used for patients with central sleep apnea, or those who need non-invasive mechanical ventilation.	No
Quiet: This identifies which machines have a decibel rating of 28 and lower. This does not account for use with the humidifier attached, which could supply additional volume that can muffle or amplify sound. This property does not account for noise that travels through the CPAP tubing, seemingly sounding louder than the measured db rating.	No
Entire Package Size: This is the size of the CPAP with Heated Humidifier in its travel bag.	13" x 10" x 5"
Manuals Included: This indicates which manuals are included with the purchase of a CPAP machine. Most all machines come with a patient manual; also called 'user manual', which may or may not have pressure setting instructions. Some machines come with both the patient and quick setup guide or both patient and clinician manuals.	Patient/Quick Setup
CPAP Mode: This property defines whether the machine is capable of continuously blowing a constant pressure. All CPAP machines are defined as 'continuous', but some BiPAP's and APAP's also come with a CPAP mode; some BiPAP and BiLevel machines Do NOT. By setting the IPAP and EPAP to the same pressure, a CPAP Mode is achieved, preventing the EPAP pressure from dropping.	IPAP=EPAP
Machine Size Only: Measures the overall dimension of the machine only. Machines with a built-in humidifier are marked NA and must refer to Entire Size dimensions.	7.5" x 5.0" x 3.1"

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Manufacturer Note:

A valid prescription is required for the purchase of this product.
We are only authorized to sell and ship Philips Respironics products to end-users residing in the United States.
Philips Respironics recommends that new patients purchase their devices, masks and initial accessories from a homecare company that can provide an individualized patient equipment set-up, clinical and after-sales support, and a program to assist patients with therapy success.
The "Full Support MSRP" of this product is 2499.00
The "Limited Support MSRP" of this product is 2039.00

CPAP Power Options

Universal Power

This system operates automatically between 110v and 240v AC. When traveling either inside or outside the USA, there are no switches to switch or fuses to change. The machine will automatically sense what voltage is needed and set itself to run on that power.

The user will need to adapt the plug that goes into the wall to fit the style of outlet socket that is being used. This is simply done with a Power Adapter Plug kit. This is the same type of plug adapter that would be used with a hair dryer or an electric shaver. World Traveler Power Adapter Plugs.

Universal 12 Volt DC Power Cord

This machine come equipped with a DC plug on the back of the unit. This allows the user to connect the CPAP to an external DC battery source. The IntelliPAP can be powered by plugging the 12volt DC Power Cord into a cigarette lighter plug. This is ideal for traveling by car, boat, or recreational vehicle that is equipped with a cigarette lighter plug.

CPAP.com Battery Kit with Universal 12 Volt DC Cable

The 2.5 lb CPAP.com Battery Pack is surprisingly small and lightweight. The lithium ion battery can be recharged at any discharge level without losing charge time due to battery memory loss. This battery has been approved by the United Nations and Department of Transportation as tested safe for travel. This battery kit comes with the CPAP.com battery and the 12 Volt DC Power Cord.

Resprionics Battery Kit with Universal 12 Volt DC Cable

This portable battery pack is an external lead acid battery that is the ultimate in power, portability and convenience. This battery kit comes with the Respironics battery and the 12 Volt DC Power Cord (connects CPAP to cigarette lighter socket).

Machine Pressure and Battery Options and Performance *Note: This is a battery life estimation based on the battery and the machine. Each machine has unique power needs. Look for the Battery kit that has all the cables needed to safely run your machine. Please always read the "Important Tips" tab for further information on battery use. Input Pressure Setting: Inhale Exhale

CPAP Product Customer Reviews

Sort: Show Star Rating:

New Machine

Walter B, WA – June 04, 2010

"So far I am pleased with my m series bipap machine. It is a little louder than my old one but the lower pressure
on exhale is nice. Glad my wife can't hear to well or it
would probably keep her awake. Was very easy to set up
and get running. took a few nights to get use to but doing
well now."

Excellent machine

Kirk – March 14, 2010

"Works extremely well. It is what the BIPAP is all about from a user's point of view. Only two suggestions for improvment: There should be a way to lock out the switches so only an on-off is active if you so choose, and the power unit and cords should be integrated for ease of handling.

Also, purchasing from cpap.com was as easy as buying a book from Amazon and their tech set the adjustments without additional charge."

Loving this machine

David B, NY – November 11, 2009

"As a brand new user I have no "priors' to compare with; however, I love the design and performance of this machine, along with the humidifier attached. I read all the materials and was able to set it up myself (settings confirmed by therapist later). I am very happy with it."

Happy user

Kerry K, Elkins, WV – November 11, 2009

"This machine is only my second and I have to admit that I wasn't happy when I found out that only the M Series is available for purchase now. Now I have two machines that are not compatible. I'd hoped to have a spare humidifier, spare power adapter and only have to buy one set of filters and so on and have a backup machine that was a true backup, now I have two separate machines.

That being said, I am very pleased with the M Series. It is very comfortable to use and I believe the airflow is modulated by the blower rather than a switching valve. It feels like a more natural transition than older machines. This could be due to an improvement in the Biflex technology as well. This is also a feature my wife doesn't like as there is more "breathing noise" as she puts it. Before the machine was one constant sound, now she hears the change in my breathing from the machine.

It is a quieter machine overall, the sounds are different. The setup is very easy.

There are many improvements over the older machines. The power options, particularly for 12 volt applications, are much simpler and less cumbersome. The travel case is much smaller and more functional, even with the optional humidifier. The fit with the humidifier is more integrated and makes for a nice looking unit whether you use the humidifier or not. The unit works great also. The therapy provided is very comfortable and easy to stick to with this machine. This is why, despite some complaints below, I still rate this machine highly. It works great for its intended purpose.

As for my complaints, I'll start with my biggest. Although the lights dim slightly after the unit begins to operate, it's not enough. My previous bipap had an option for turning off the lighted buttons completely after starting the unit. I want that feature back. Even dimmed I can see very well in my room. I can see my ceiling very clearly in this bright blue light. This change has been traumatic for my wife. She has trouble sleeping unless it's very quiet and very dark, both things this machine has disrupted. I tried covering up the buttons with something loose, but my hose knocked it off during the night, and I don't want something covering them semi-permanently as I don't want to change the look or function of the device or create a fire hazard from heat building from the device or humidifier.

This leads me to my next issue, the rear hose connection. This is an inconvenient location for me. I don't route the hose over or through my headboard, and the position of my machine is very far back so I'm concerned about the hose kinking over time and I have less wiggle room because the hose connection is farther away and the angle eats up some of the length of my hose. It works great for the humidifier connection, but it's outlet is also on the rear. They could have included a non-swivel elbow to assist with this issue.

Overall a good machine for the purpose and it would be excellent with just a few tweaks."

m series bipap plus

Harold S, Montrose, CO – September 04, 2009

"This new Resperonics Bipap plus machine is so much quieter and smaller than my ten year old Resperonics machine that it is well worth the money that I'am paying for the machine, as Medicare would not replace it.
Thank you cpap.com for the rapid responce to my order."

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CPAP Learning Center

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What does CPAP therapy do?

CPAP therapy provides a constant airflow which holds the airway open so that uninterrupted breathing is maintained during sleep. It is traditionally provided through a nasal mask that seals around the nose to maintain the pressure level.

Which CPAP masks work on which machines?

All CPAP masks work with all machines.

How do I choose the machine that is right for me?

We provide our customers with many tools to make informed decisions about their machine purchases. Options include:

Calling a CPAP Expert Toll Free. 1-800-356-5221.
Comparison Charts. These charts compare available machines, feature by feature. If you don't know the meaning of a feature, click on the question mark for a definition. Click on the image or name of the product for more detailed product information, pictures and resources.

CPAP Comparison Chart

APAP Comparison Chart

BiPAP Comparison Chart
Help Me Choose Guide. We created a guide to help you select the right machine according to your preferences. The guide asks you a series of questions regarding your preferences and your prescription. Based on your answers we provide you with a comparison chart of the machine that meet your criteria. Get started here:

Help Me Choose - Machine
Browse Our Machine Product Categories. These categories show each machine our company offers, ranked by popularity. Popularity is determined by a mix of sales data and our in house opinion of the quality of the machine based on our experience and customer feedback. The best products float to the top of our categories.

CPAP Machine Category

APAP (Auto Adjusting) Machine Category

BiPAP (Two Pressure) Machine Category

How can I compare different machines?

We work very hard to provide many different ways for our customers to compare products. Here are the machine product guides we have created and maintain:

CPAP Machine Comparison Guide. This guide stacks up every CPAP machine we sell, feature by feature. If you don't know the meaning of a feature, click the question mark for a definition. The links below will take you to the most popular CPAPs, or all CPAP machines we sell.

Compare Most Popular CPAP Machines

Compare All CPAP Machines
Auto Adjusting Machine (APAP) Comparison Guide. This guide stacks up every APAP machine we sell, feature by feature. If you don't know the meaning of a feature, click the question mark for a definition. The links below will take you to the most popular APAPs, or all APAP machines we sell.

Compare Most Popular APAP Machines

Compare All APAP Machines
BiPAP, VPAP and BiLevel Comparison Guide. This guide stacks up every BiPAP machine we sell, feature by feature. If you don't know the meaning of a feature, click the question mark for a definition. The links below will take you to the most popular BiPAPs, or all BiPAP machines we sell.

Compare Most Popular BiPAP Machines

Compare All BiPAP Machines

What comes with my machine?

Machines come with a six foot hose, power cord, at least one filter, and manuals. Most manufacturers include a carrying case which is designed specifically for their equipment. CPAP / BiPAP / APAP machines do not come with a delivery system or mask. CPAP Masks must be purchased separately.

To see the list of what specifically comes with each machine, you can browse for a machine. Then on the product page, click the "Specs" tab to see a full list of what comes with the machine.

Do all CPAPs use filters?

Yes, all CPAPs use at least one filter that is usually a type of foam material and washable. Some CPAPs offer finer filtration with the addition of a disposable paper filter.

Cleaning and changing filters is the only maintenance required for a CPAP machine.

The filters are located at the back of the machine at the air intake. The image below shows the black foam filter at the back of the Everest 3 CPAP Machine.

Are prescriptions required for mask, machine and/or humidifier purchases?

Yes. Federal law requires we have a valid prescription on file before we ship your mask, machine and/or humidifier.

We provide many easy ways to get your prescription:

We can request your prescription for you! When you checkout, just let us know you would like us to request your prescription, or you can log into your account to have us request your prescription.
Fax your prescription to our Toll Free fax number: 1-866-353-2727, or our international fax number: 713-541-7370
Email your prescription to cpap@cpap.com
Upload your prescription in your account, under the prescriptions section

For more information on prescriptions, please see our Prescription Section of the Learning Center.

What is ramp?

The ramp button on a machine is a feature that allows for a gradual pressure build-up to your prescribed pressure. The feature is enjoyed by those with high pressures because they ease up to their pressure.

What is exhalation relief?

Exhalation relief is a comfort feature offered by two manufactures which reduces the air flow at the time of exhalation making the breathing process more natural.

Respironics = C-Flex, C-Flex+, A-Flex and Bi-Flex
Resmed = EPR (Expiratory Pressure Relief)

What is Bi-Flex?

Bi-Flex is a feature that makes breathing back against CPAP pressure easier to do. Bi-Flex pressure relief technology offers pressure relief at the transition from exhalation to inhalation, at the transition from inhalation to exhalation, and during exhalation to make BiPAP therapy more like natural breathing.

Bi-Flex Easy Breathing Technology Visual Graph

What is the difference between Bi-Flex and C-flex?

C-Flex only works at the start of an exhale. Bi-Flex works during the transition from exhalation to inhalation, the transition from inhalation to exhalation and during exhalation.

How do I use a battery to operate my CPAP?

First you need to determine if your machine is configured to operate on DC power and has a DC power outlet. If your machine does have a DC power outlet and you want to run your marine battery, then you will need the correct DC cable for your machine and an adapter cable that fits over the cigarette lighter plug and ends in alligator clips.

CPAP.com sells complete battery kits with everything you need for your machine including the right cables for your machine and the battery. You can find the right battery kit for your machine here.

If your machine does not have a DC power outlet, then you will also need an inverter to be able to run your machine on battery power.

If you have questions about the specific power needs of your machine, review the "Power" tab on your machine's product page, or give us a call at 1-800-356-5221.

What are the CPAP, BiPAP and Sleep Apnea related billing codes?

EO601 RR is CPAP rental
E0601 NU is CPAP purchase
A7034 is CPAP mask
A7032 is CPAP Nasal mask cushion
A7033 is CPAP Nasal pillows
A7030 is CPAP Full Face mask
A7031 is CPAP Full Face mask cushion
A7044 is CPAP Oral Interface
A7027 is CPAP Hybrid mask
A7028 is CPAP Hybrid mask cushion
A7029 is CPAP Hybrid mask nasal pillow
A7046 is CPAP Humidifier Chamber
A7037 is CPAP tubing, long and short hoses
A4604 is CPAP Heated tubing
A7038 is CPAP disposable filter
A7039 is CPAP gross particle (foam) filter
A7035 is CPAP headgear
A7036 is CPAP chinstrap
E0561 NU is CPAP Passover Humidifier
E0562 NU is CPAP Heated Humidifier
E0470 RR is BiPAP rental
E0470 NU is BiPAP purchase
E0471 RR is BiPAP-ST rental
E0471 NU is BiPAP-ST purchase

Other CPAP items are listed under E1399, which is miscellaneous.

What does a BiPAP prescription need to say?

Contains one of the following words or phrases "BiPAP", "BiLevel", "VPAP"
Contains your physician's contact information
Contains your physician's signature
Contains the patient's full name
Contains your inspiration pressure (Also called IPAP Pressure or Breathing In pressure)
- Example: IPAP 13 CM/H20
- Example: IPAP 13
- Example: IPAP 4 CM/H20
- Example: IPAP 4
Contains your expiration pressure (Also called EPAP Pressure or Breathing Out pressure)
- Example: EPAP 13 CM/H20
- Example: EPAP 13
- Example: EPAP 18 CM/H2O
- Example: EPAP 18

What is CPAP therapy?

CPAP stands for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure. CPAP therapy is the most recommended and the most effective treatment for Obstructive Sleep Apnea.

A CPAP machine provides air at a constant prescribed pressure through a tube and out of a CPAP mask to a person with Obstructive Sleep Apnea. CPAP therapy provides a constant airflow which holds the airway open so that uninterrupted breathing is maintained during sleep. This eliminates sleep apnea events and allows the patient to get a restful sleep.

The pressure of the air is determined during your sleep study and your doctor will prescribe you a CPAP machine at that pressure.

CPAP therapy is traditionally provided through a nasal mask that seals around the nose. However, more innovative and comfortable options are available and advances in the delivery of CPAP therapy are continually occurring.

For instance: CPAPs with that boast FLEX or EPS technology will offer you exhalation relief. APAP, BiPAP and BiLevel machines offer various levels of pressure throughout the night and exhalation relief.

What maintenance is required on machines?

The only care required for machines is to clean or change the filters at the air intake of the machine to keep the internal parts from accumulating dust.

There are other suggested actions to care for your machine:

Keep the area around your machine clean. Remove any dust from around your machine to improve the air quality delivered to your machine.
Keep the air intake of the machine unblocked. Curtains, bedding, and papers can easily block the air intake of your machine, reducing the airflow to your machine.
If you have a humidifier, it is suggested that you do not pick up the machine with the humidifier attached. With most machines, it is easy to spill water from the humidifier into the machine and cause damage. To avoid this, it is suggested to remove the machine from the humidifier instead of transporting them together.
If you have a humidifier, it is also suggested that you empty the water from the chamber every morning. Accidents happen. If a family pet, or family member moves the machine and humidifier, when there is water in the chamber, it is more likely an accident could happen where water is spilled into your machine.

What Data Capable Machines are available?

CPAP machines which record full data (like AHI and leak info):

Philips Respironics M Series Pro C-Flex Machine
Philips Respironics PR System One REMstar Pro CPAP Machine with C-Flex+
ResMed S8 Elite II CPAP Machine
Covidien/Puritan Bennett Sandman Info HC CPAP Machine with Built In Heated Humidifier (not to be confused with the model named "Intro.")
Fisher & Paykel SleepStyle 244 CPAP Machine with Built in Heated Humidifier

AUTOPAP ("autotitrating cpap" or "APAP") machines which record full data:

BILEVEL ("bipap") machines which record full data:

*Note: The older pre-M Respironics CPAP, APAP and BiPAP Pro 2 with Bi-Flex, the ResMed S7 VPAP III, S8 Elite, and the Puritan Bennett Goodnight 420S, 420SP, and 420E record full data.

How do I change the pressure setting of my machine?

When a physician orders a pressure change, or a patient moves to an area with a very different altitude and does not have an altitude compensating machine, there are a number of ways to ensure you are receiving CPAP therapy at the correct pressure.

Sleep laboratories and sleep disorder centers may be willing to make this pressure change. Just call a big local hospital or ask you physician for sleep lab phone numbers. Be sure to take your prescription.

A second way is to do it yourself. We sell manometers that are very portable, accurate, and simple to use. All the machines we sell come with instructions on how to set pressure to physician orders. Most patients have little trouble doing this themselves. If you need help we can talk you through the procedure.

Gauge Manometer (for pressure measurements)

Fisher and Paykel Water Column CPAP Manometer with HC325 Chamber

A third option is to ship the machine to us with the new prescription. We will set it and ship it back.

It is the law and good common sense to run all sleep disorder devices at the prescribed pressure. If you think your prescribed pressure is wrong, talk to your physician.

Why might I prefer an APAP machine?

Some CPAP users find it more pleasant to breath with APAP than with CPAP because the pressure automatically changes as needed to deliver the minimal pressure needed. With a CPAP, on the other hand, the pressure is set at the highest necessary to keep the airway open, even though the high pressure is needed only a fraction of the time.

What does an APAP prescription need to say?

Contains one of the following words or phrases "APAP", "AutoPAP", "AutoSet", "Auto CPAP", "Auto Adjusting CPAP", "Self Adjusting CPAP", "CPAP" or "Continuous Positive Airway Pressure" or similar term.
Contains your physician's contact information
Contains your physician's signature
Contains the patient's full name
Contains your pressure range (Optional, Not Required)
- Example: 4-20 CM/H20
- Example: 4-20
- Example: 6-18 CM/H2O
- Example: 6-18

CPAP prescriptions are accepted for Auto Adjusting (APAP) Machines.

What does a BiPAP Auto prescription need to say?

Contains one of the following words or phrases "BiPAP", "BiLevel", "VPAP", "BiPAP Auto"
Contains your physician's contact information
Contains your physician's signature
Contains the patient's full name

Inspiration pressure (IPAP) and expiration pressure (EPAP) are NOT required for the BiPAP Auto.

How do I prepare for power outages with CPAP?

There are a lot of back up battery choices out there that can give you peace of mind in case of a power outage. Some machines offer the option of an integrated battery which will automatically fail over to battery power if the power goes out.

CPAP.com sells battery packs to accompany your machine if an integrated battery is not available. Visit CPAPtalk for more advice specific to your needs, or view this past thread on the topic here.