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SleepStyle 254 Auto CPAP Machine with Built In Heated Humidifier

Fisher and Paykel has packed the SleepStyle 200 Auto Series with tons of features that enhance patient comfort and provide a personalized treatment system. All SleepStyle Series machines utilize a built in heated humidifier, providing humidification at the touch of a button. Track your therapy effectiveness with PerformanceMaximizer Software and its SmartStick removable media.

Manufactured by Fisher & Paykel. 5% of AutoCPAP Machine product buyers choose this product.

$449.00

4.9 of 5 21 Reviews

Item #HC254JHU: In Stock

Available to Ship: Today

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

Product Features

The SleepStyle 200 Auto Series is designed to provide pressure on-demand utilizing a flow-based auto-adjusting algorithm that continually checks for flow limitations, apneas, and hypopneas. Fisher and Paykel has created a fully integrated system that includes several comfort features such as Altitude compensation up to 9,000ft, leak compensation, and a new SensAwake Technology.

SensAwake addresses user intolerance for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure therapy. Comfort is critical during an awakened state, particularly for new users who have difficulty returning back to sleep when CPAP pressures are high. SensAwake monitors CPAP airflow and reduces pressure levels when respiration becomes irregular. Irregular breathing is a general marker that a user is transitioning from a sleep state to an awakened state. This personalized treatment prevents users from awakening and ultimately improves therapy effectiveness.

Unlike other machines, the SleepStyle 200 Auto is an all-in-one, fully integrated solution that ensures the machine travels easily and is compact. The built in humidifier comes with Ambient Tracking Plus, which provides effective humidity under changing conditions. Sensors measure both the inside and outside temperatures of the airflow, then adjusts the humidity levels to prevent condensation buildup and nasal discomfort during mask leaks.

Lastly, track your therapy effectiveness with PerformanceMaximizer and the SmartStick. The software offers detailed reporting including data regarding compliance, AHI, leak and pressure readings.

Return On Warranty Issues Only

Specifications

This Product Includes...

SleepStyle 200 Series Auto CPAP Machine
6 Foot Hose
Travel Bag
2 Humidifier Chambers
2 Filters
Power Cord
Funnel
Manuals

Product Specifications

Machine Specifications

Pressure Range	4-20 cm H20
Flow Output	86 LPM @ 20cmH2o
Ramp Time	20 mins
Dimensions	10.8"H x 6.7"W x 5.5" D
Weight	4.2 lbs
Altitude Compensation	Maximum height 9000 feet.
Electrical Requirements	100 - 240 AC, 12volt DC
Power Consumption	85W max with humidifier at max setting
Noise Level	less than 30 dBA

Humidifier Specifications

Maximum Temperature	149�F (65�C)
Dimensions:	Built-In
Water Capacity	400ml at recommended water level
Heater Settings	0 to 4 adjustable by 0.5 increments
Humidity Range:	Up to 43.9 mg H2O/l

Product Comparison

	SleepStyle 254 Auto 449.00	IntelliPAP AutoAdjust 390.00	S9 AutoSet 853.00
Basic Features
Manufacturer This is the company that produces the product being compared.	FIsher and Paykel	DeVilbiss	ResMed
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	3 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.	30 dB	26 dB	24 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/Clinician	Patient/Quick Setup	Patient/Quick Setup
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.	No	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.	No	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.	4.2 lbs	2.75 lbs	1.8 lbs
Entire Weight This is the combined weight of the machine, heated humidifier, power cables, bag and hose.	6.8 lbs	6.1 lbs	7.4 lbs
Entire Size This is the combined dimensions of the CPAP with the Heated humidifier.	10.8" x 6.7" x 5.5"	6.5" x 8.4" x 6.4"	11.25"x6.25"x3.25"
Entire Package Size This is the size of the CPAP with Heated Humidifier in its travel bag.	11" x 14" x 7.5"	7.25" x 11.25" x 9.5	14.5"x 12.5"x5"
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.	NA	4.2" x 6.5" x 6.9"	6" x 5.5" x 3.25"
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.	Built-In	IntelliPAP Heated	H5i
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.	Yes	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.	Built In	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.	Ambient Tracking	No	Climate Control
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 H20
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.	SensAwake	SmartFlex	AutoSet with Easy-Breathe
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	No	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.	No	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; OS
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.	PerformanceMaximizer	SmartLink	ResScan
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).	No	LCD	No
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

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CPAP Product Customer Reviews

Sort: Show Star Rating:

New to CPAP

Rebecca E, TN – January 05, 2012

"Super quiet and easy to fill the reservoir. The water tank lasts all night, too. I'm so happy with the CPAP since I feel so much more awake during the day. My partner is happy because she no longer hears me gasping and choking during the night. I am grateful as to how much better I function during the day. One more thing, I have previously struggled with a doctor diagnosed dry voice box, and hence, have had a hoarse voice during the day. Because of the humidifier in this machine, my voice is as clear as can be. Wow, I'm amazed!"

Great Product

William T, TX – December 17, 2011

"This an excellent CPAP machine. It is super quite and works great."

Loretta M, CO – November 21, 2011

"Best CPAP I have ever used. Very quiet and the self adjusting feature is awesome."

I am glad to have this machine!

Joseph F, PA – October 14, 2011

"I have been using this since August 2011. It works GREAT!
very quiet. I can dream again."

Finally a CPAP unit that works!!!!

James R, NH – May 19, 2011

"I have used several CPAP units over the last 6 years. Without exception all of them have been a miserable failure. My setting is relatively high and during the night will inevitably cause either a leak in my mask ( and yes, I have tried over 10 different masks to try and correct this problem) or the air pressure coming into the mask will make exhaling extremely difficult. The result is waking up the next morning searching for my mask and finding it on the floor, under the covers, on top of the covers..... The SleepStyle 254 works! No more ripping off my mask in the middle of the night. With the various sensors that this unit has it will compensates for leaks, and most importantly will adjust the pressure automatically if I start to wake up during the night. I highly recommend this unit."

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CPAP Video & FAQ

Videos

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.

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 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 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 is a heated humidifier?

A heated humidifier uses heat to produce moisture. The heat is adjustable for more or less moisture, and the chamber is much smaller than a passover humidifier.

It is our experience from over ten years of specializing in CPAP equipment, that patients who use heated humidifiers have a much higher rate of therapy effectiveness to CPAP therapy.

There are three types of heated humidifiers:

Stand Alone Humidifiers
Integrated Humidifiers
Built In Humidifiers

What is a built in humidifier?

A "built in" humidifier is designed so that it is part of the CPAP machine and cannot be removed or separated from the CPAP machine. This is similar to an all-in-one unit eliminating the need for a second hose or second power cord. Usually the water chamber can be removed for cleaning or replacement purposes.

The advantage of a "built-in" humidifier is a more compact unit that uses fewer parts. This design also helps to ensure therapy effectiveness by including the heated humidifier which may provide comfort to the CPAP user they may not have received otherwise.

A disadvantage is that they may produce less moisture if used as passover humidifiers because the surface area is typically smaller. Also, since the humidifier is "built in" to the machine, the ability to detach the humidifier is not an option. This can be an issue for frequent travelers. Lastly, if the machine or humidifier stops working, the entire unit must be sent in for repair or replaced, not just the component that failed.

An example of a machine with a built in humidifier is the Sandman Info HC CPAP Machine with Built In Heated Humidifier as seen below.

How do I care for my humidifier?

The only care the humidifiers require is that you empty and clean the water tank after use in the morning. Be sure to use distilled water only in the tank.

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 is a passover humidifier?

A passover humidifier is a chamber of water added to the CPAP to help moisten the airflow and reduce irritation to the nasal passages.

Air flows from the CPAP, through a short hose to the humidifier, then into the six foot hose to the mask. The air picks up whatever moisture it can as it "passes over" the water in the chamber.

Passover humidifiers may provide sufficient moisture with CPAPs set at lower-end pressures, but if not, there is no way to increase the amount of moisture produced. Furthermore, in cold climates, the water temperature in the chamber will drop, causing the CPAP air to become very cold and reduce the amount of moisture.

What is an integrated humidifier?

An integrated humidifier is a component to a specific CPAP that fits directly to the CPAP, eliminating the need for a second hose and in some heated humidifiers, a second power cord.

The advantage of an integrated humidifier is a more compact unit that uses fewer parts.

A disadvantage is that they may produce less moisture if used as passover humidifiers because the surface area is typically smaller. Also, most integrated humidifiers will function only with the CPAP for which they were designed.

You can see if your machine has an integrated humidifier option by reviewing our compare charts.

An example of an integrated humidifier is the PR System One Heated Humidifier as seen below attached to one of the PR System One line of CPAP machines.

What is a stand alone humidifier?

A stand-alone humidifier is a component that will work with any CPAP and does not attach directly to the CPAP. It uses its own power cord and typically a short hose is used to connect it to the CPAP. Usually it would sit next to the CPAP machine and is slightly larger than an integrated humidifier.

The advantage of a stand-alone humidifier is superior humidity and control and often a larger water capacity with the chamber. Also, the fact they may be used with any CPAP machine can be useful.

The main disadvantage is that the size is often larger than either a "built in" or integrated humidifier with the short hose are needed to connect it to the CPAP machine.

An example of a stand alone humidifier is the Fisher & Paykel HC150 Heated Humidifier as seen below.

What is rainout?

Rainout is the accumulation of water in a CPAP tube due to warm moist air cooling on its way from your CPAP machine to your CPAP mask.

The image below from Fisher & Paykel explains how rainout is formed. Warm moist air leaves the heated humidifier and travels down the CPAP tube. As the air travels down the tube the room temperature can cool the tube and therefore cool the air traveling down the tube. As the air cools, the air released its moisture and condensation occurs, otherwise known as rainout.

Solutions to rainout include:

Raising the temperature of your bedroom.
Keep your CPAP machine at the same level as your bed.
Insulating your tubing with a hose cover like Snugglehose.
Purchasing a CPAP machine with a rainout reduction comfort feature.

Why do I need to use distilled water with in my humidifier tank?

Using distilled water helps keep your humidifier clean and mineral deposit free. If you were to use tap water, the water would evaporate to leave a hard white mineral deposit in your tank or lead to mold growth. Cases of lung disease have been connected to using contaminated well water in a CPAP humidifier.* Source

If you can't get distilled water where you live, use bottled water. You will need to rinse your tank out each morning and do not leave standing water in your tank between uses.

What does a humidifier prescription need to say?

Contains one of the following words or phrases "CPAP Humidifier", "Humidifier", "HH", "CPAP Supplies", "CPAP Mask", "CPAP", "Continuous Positive Airway Pressure", "APAP", "AutoPAP", "AutoSet", "Auto CPAP", "Auto Adjusting CPAP", "Self Adjusting CPAP", "BiPAP", "BiLevel", "VPAP", "BiPAP Auto", "BiPAP ST", "Synchrony ST", "VPAP ST"
Contains your physician's contact information
Contains your physician's signature
Contains the patient's full name

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.

Which CPAP masks work on which machines?

All CPAP masks work with all machines.

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.

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.

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.