respironics m series auto cflex cpap machine

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M Series Auto CPAP Machine with C-Flex

The M Series Auto is a small and feature packed CPAP that looks more like a stylish clock radio than a CPAP.

It easily packs away in your carry on luggage, and has an incredible number of high-tech features, including the patented C-Flex comfort feature, self-adjusting pressure, and powerful clinical data features, on-board.

Manufactured by Philips Respironics.

4.7 of 5 124 Reviews

Item #DS500S

This product no longer available and this information is for reference only. Newer Model Available: M Series Auto CPAP with A-Flex.

Replacement Parts

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

Product Features

C-Flex vs. Traditional CPAP: Brown University Study

Respironics has added their easy breathing C-Flex technology to the REMstar Auto M Series. Now you can have both the comfort of auto-titrating pressure with the comfort of easy exhalation, all in one CPAP.

The REMstar Auto M Series with C-Flex is is an auto-adjusting CPAP machine which is set for a range of pressures, then seeks out and delivers the lowest level of pressure needed to keep the airway open. With CFLEX technology, not only with the pressure level vary as needed, but it will drop with each exhalation.

The auto-adjusting CPAPs were designed for patients who are unable to participate in a sleep study or whose pressure needs vary during the night according to their stage of sleep or sleep position. However, any patient will receive very comfortable therapy from this type of CPAP.

The REMstar Auto M Series CPAP with REMstar Heated Humidifier includes the following features:

Automatically adjusts pressure based on air-flow limitations from snoring, hypopnea or apnea events.
C-Flex technology offers a more comfortable way to deliver sleep therapy by giving pressure relief at exhalation. The amount the pressure is lowered is determined by one of three settings that you can adjust to your comfort. You can read more about C-Flex by clicking here:
C-Flex Brochure
The component REMstar M Series Heated Humidifier integrates with the REMstar Auto M Series to become one unit with only one hose and one power cord.
Automatic start and stop operation.
Mask leak alert.
Automatic altitude compensation adjustment.
International power supply to operate on any AC current from 110 to 240 without adjustment to the machine. (An adapter may be needed to plug the CPAP into a wall outlet outside the US.)
Direct DC operation without the need for a DC/AC inverter, just a cable and adapter which are sold separately.
Two washable, reusable pollen filters are included, as well as one optional ultra-fine filter.
Two year manufacturer warranty against defects.

Specifications

This Product Includes...

REMstar Auto M Series Device
Smartcard Module with SmartCard
6 ft Flexible Tubing
Carrying case with padded shoulder strap
Power supply
AC Power cord (3ft)
Reusable gray foam filter
Disposable ultra-fine filter
All Manuals
Provider Quick Set up Guide
Integrated heated humidifier (if ordered)

Product Specifications

Ramp Time 0 to 45 min. (5-min. increments)
Starting Ramp Pressure 4 to CPAP; user adjustable
Dimensions 8.5" L x 5.0"W X3.5"H (19cm L x 12.7 cm W x 7.9 cm H)
Filters Pollen and optional ultra-fine
Device Set-Up LCD/Keypad and Encore Pro SmartCard
Data Storage Capacity SmartCard: 6 months a 3 usage sessions per day, 7 days in-depth analysis
Data Storage Content SmartCard: Date/time, hours of use, usage patterns, AHI, leak, snore, FOSQ
Electrical Requirements 100 - 240 VAC, 50/60 Hz (An adapter may be needed to plug the CPAP into a wall outlet outside the US.) 12volt DC
Special User Features Lighted LED's, mask off alert
Max Exposure Heat for Machine Machine should not be exposed to heat greater than 140 degrees Fahrenheit

Product Comparison

M Series Auto CPAP Machine with C-Flex

	M Series Auto with C-Flex 599.00	IntelliPAP AutoAdjust 490.00	PR 60 Series Auto 519.00
Basic Features
Manufacturer This is the company that produces the product being compared.	Respironics	DeVilbiss	Philips Respironics
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.	APAP	APAP	APAP
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	5 Years	2 Years
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.	31 dB	26 dB	<30 dBA
Quiet This identifies which machines have a decibel rating of 29 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	Yes	Yes
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	Patient/Quick Setup	Patient
Dimensions
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	Yes	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	Yes	Yes
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	2.75 lbs	2.8 lbs
Entire Weight This is the combined weight of the machine, heated humidifier, power cables, bag and hose.	5.5 lbs	6.1 lbs	6.8 lbs
Entire Size This is the combined dimensions of the CPAP with the Heated humidifier.	8.25" x 8.2" x 4"	6.5" x 8.4" x 6.4"	6.5" x 10.75" x 4"
Entire Package Size This is the size of the CPAP with Heated Humidifier in its travel bag.	13" x 10" x 5"	7.25" x 11.25" x 9.5	8 " x 14.75" x 8"
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"	4.2" x 6.5" x 6.9"	7" x 5.5" x 4"
Humidifier Features
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	IntelliPAP Heated	System One 60 Series
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	No	No
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	Integrated
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	No	60 Series Heated Tube
Integrated Heated Hose This indicates that the machine has an integrated heated hose option to enhance humidification and reduce rainout. An integrated heated hose draws its power from the machine itself and does not have a separate power cord and is adjusted through the machine settings.	No	No	Yes
Pressure Features
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.	Yes	Yes	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.	4-20cm H20	4-20cm H20	4-20cm H2O
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.	NA	NA	NA
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.	C-Flex	SmartFlex	A-Flex
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	Yes	Yes
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.	Yes	Yes	Yes
Power Features
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	Yes	Yes
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	100-240V AC	100-240V AC
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	Yes	Yes
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	No	No
Software Features
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; OS	MSD; OS	MSD
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.	Yes	Yes	Yes
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.	EncoreViewer	SmartLink	No
Additional Features
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	Auto
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	Yes	Yes
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	LCD	LCD; ALARM
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	No	No
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	No	No
Designed For Her These machines were designed with a woman's lifestyle in mind.	No	No	No
Customer Reviews
	5 4 3 2 1 124 Reviews	5 4 3 2 1 552 Reviews	5 4 3 2 1 72 Reviews

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Manufacturer Note:

A valid prescription is required for the purchase of this product.
Philips Respironics products are for sale only to patients within the U.S. and not to other third parties or businesses.
All services provided by CPAP.com, including advertisement, ordering, sale, delivery, instruction, and setup of the products are performed solely by CPAP.com and independently of the manufacturer.

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.

Respironics 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. Each battery kit page contains a note about which machines are compatible with that specific battery kit. Please always read the "Important Tips" tab for further information on battery use.

CPAP Product Customer Reviews

124 Reviews

Voted most helpful favorable review

Robert A, JULIAN, CA – December 26, 2009

"I have used this machine and it's prior model for several years with no problems. I purchased the smaller updated unit both because it was lighter (for traveling) and because I felt I needed a backup in case the other needed to be repaired (assuming it can be, and that Respironica will still be making the parts). I use my older unit at home and take the newer unit when traveling. I choose the Auto C-FLEX model with Humidifier because experience has taught me that I need these features to be comfortable. Auto C-FLEX (with ramping) is incredibly comfortable to use, providing effortless breathing, and changed my life from the very first night I began to use it. I had apnia so bad that I simply counld not stay awake during the day, and started to nod after only an hour behind toe wheel of a car. I snored so loudly that my wife started making me sleep in another room. Life was not good. By the way, I choose the nose gear (Puritan Bennet Breeze SleepGear with Large (Green) Nasal pillows. I have found this system the most comfortable for me, allowing almost unlimited movement at night on both sides, on my back (for the firse time in years), and on my stomach (head to the side of course). The standard hose has proven to be adaquate. The filters are great, especially the micro dust and pollen filter (clean air all the time. Breathing moist air, by the way has a surprising cooling effect on vary hot nights. I have found it valuable to carry an extension cord and one extra milti outlet plug when traveling to allow machine electrical connection to plugs far away from the bed. One final comment. I have found the DC connection capability of the machine to be invaluable when camping. I purchased the DC adaptor, and attached the machine to a Marine Battery rated at 150 amp hours. The machine consumes an average of 3 amp hours (18 amp hours consumed if you sleep a 6 hour night). I re-charge the battery with an inexpensive solar unit the size of a sun visoor and have kept the system going for 2 weeks when fishing. I carry distilled water (20 oz in a Sams Club bottle) and have not run out yet durig a trip - water evaporated slowly in the humidifier. Good product, easy breathing in and out, minimum discomfort. Thanks for the high quality engineering - that such a simple thing could make such a difference in my life at the price it is offered."

Voted most helpful critical review

noisey

Tom – October 07, 2006

"It whines alot, a high pitched sound that is not pleasant.

The lights on the control panel are way to bright.

NOT a good purchase on my part.

Tom"

Showing All Reviews Most Helpful First | Newest First

Solid CPAP

Anonymous – February 17, 2010

"The Good:
1 - This is possibly the best looking CPAP of all time. It looks much better on the nightstand than the others I've had (and I've had a few).
2 - It's a decent size for travel.
3 - The software isn't very sophisticated, but it gets the job done.
4 - It's fairly quiet.
5 - The humidifier is easy to fill.
6 - It seems to be well built.

The Bad:
1 - The blue lights on the buttons are crazy bright. I had to use electrical tape to cover them up.
2 - I don't really like the feel of C-FLEX, so I turned it off.
3 - The humidifier doesn't have enough capacity and it doesn't run hot enough even on the top setting to use all of the capacity in an evening, which leaves me feeling dried out, particularly in the winter. I still haven't found an integrated humidifier in any CPAP as good as the HC150.
4 - I wish the display would provide data from the night before instead of an average over the last week.
5- The 2 cables coming out of the big power brick are a pain.

I am now using a new Respironics PR One Auto as my main CPAP and I actually think it's a step back from this model in most ways (other than the fact that it can supposedly detect and treat RERAs)."

Hsieh

Hsieh J, Pasadena, CA – February 05, 2010

"good product , good service"

Satisified with new machine and order

Jane B, SD – February 04, 2010

"Just got my new M series Auto C-Pap with CFlex. Have had a Respronics machine for 9 years, decided I needed an upgrade with a better humidifier that was heated, after my recent testing, with adding more air flow. So far I'm satisfied with my new machine and it's definatly quieter than my old one."

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CPAP Video & FAQ

Videos

Here are video instructions on how to properly install and replace your Respironics M Series reusable and disposable filters. To start, click the gray play icon below.

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 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 C-Flex?

C-Flex is a pressure relief feature that makes breathing back against CPAP pressure easier to do by reducing the pressure at the beginning of exhalation and returning to therapeutic pressure just before inhalation. Independent studies conducted by leading universities indicate that patient comfort, and therefore, patient CPAP compliance, is higher with machines that use C-Flex. C-Flex is a technology invented by Respironics, is proprietary, and is not available on other brands of CPAP Machines.

C-Flex Easy Breathing Technology Visual Graph

C-Flex vs. Traditional CPAP: Brown University Study

cpaptalk.com Interview, C-Flex in the Remstar Pro and Remstar Auto

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.

What maintenance is required on machines?

The only care a CPAP or BiPAP machine requires is to clean or change the filters at the air intake. This keeps the internal parts from accumulating dust. Fine, paper filters should be changed out every 30 days, or when they appear soiled. Foam, washable filters should be rinsed with clear running water once a week, allowed to air dry, and reinserted.

There are some other suggested actions to care for your machine:

Keep the area around your machine clean. Remove any dust from around the machine to improve the air quality delivered to your machine and you.
Keep the air intake of the machine unblocked. Curtains, bedding, and papers can easily block the air intake of your machine, reducing the airflow.
If a humidifier is used do not pick up the machine with the humidifier attached. With most machines it is easy to spill water from the humidifier chamber into the machine causing damage. Manufacturer warranties are voided by water damage to the machine. To avoid this, remove the chamber from the humidifier and then remove the humidifier from the machine rather than transporting them together.
If a humidifier is used you should empty the water from the chamber every morning. Accidents happen. If a family pet or family member moves the machine and humidifier with water in the chamber it is more likely that water could be spilled into your machine. Water damage to a machine voids the manufacturer warranty.

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 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.

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 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 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 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 does a CPAP prescription need to say?

Contains one of the following words or phrases "CPAP" or "Continuous Positive Airway Pressure"
Contains your physician's contact information
Contains your physician's signature
Contains the patient's full name
Contains your specific pressure.
- Example: 9 CM/H2O
- Example: 9
- Example: 14 CM/H2O
- Example: 14

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.

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.

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. The Transcend II Travel CPAP Machine has Batterie Options available for that can set up as a fail-over, back up battery. Review the "Power" Tab on the machine page.

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.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What does CPAP therapy do?

Which CPAP masks work on which machines?

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

How can I compare different machines?

What comes with my machine?

Do all CPAPs use filters?

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

What is exhalation relief?

What is C-Flex?

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

What maintenance is required on machines?

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

What does an APAP prescription need to say?

Why might I prefer an APAP machine?

What is ramp?

What Data Capable Machines are available?

How do I use a battery to operate my CPAP?

What does a CPAP prescription need to say?

What is CPAP therapy?

How do I change the pressure setting of my machine?

How do I prepare for power outages with CPAP?

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