Power outages are an inevitable part of life. If you don’t have a reliable battery backup, you may be faced with sleeping without your CPAP machine, and skipping even one night of CPAP treatment can put your health at risk and impact your overall CPAP compliance.
Fortunately, CPAP battery backups offer peace of mind with uninterrupted power so you can continue enjoying the benefits of treating your sleep apnea with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP).
Whether you’re planning your next camping or RV trip, flying on an airplane, or preparing for mother nature, we’re here to help guide you to the best CPAP battery for you and your machine. We’ll teach you what to look for when shopping for your ideal CPAP battery, including:
- Types of CPAP Batteries
- Machine Battery Compatability
- Best CPAP Batteries in 2023
- Choosing a Battery Size
- CPAP Battery Run Time
- How to Get the Most Out of Your CPAP Battery
- Which CPAP Batteries Are FAA-Approved
- CPAP Battery FAQs
Why is a CPAP Battery Backup Important?
Even if you’re not into hiking, camping, or going off the grid, it is still recommended to have a backup CPAP battery. Some CPAP batteries can be used as a backup that will kick in whenever there’s a sudden loss of power—ideal if you notice a storm in the forecast. In fact, the battery backup feature is why many people purchase additional or alternative batteries in the first place because you shouldn’t have to be without your therapy.
Can I Use a CPAP Battery Like a UPS Backup?
An uninterruptible power supply (UPS) is able to automatically detect a power outage and switch to battery power without any manual intervention. Some CPAP batteries do not function as a UPS backup, and will require you to disconnect your machine from the wall outlet and switch it to battery power in the event of a power outage.
Fortunately, for those worried about power outages, every battery on this list will function as a UPS except for the Zopec Power Outlet 2.
What’s the Best CPAP Battery Backup for Power Outages?
The Portable Outlet Uninterruptible Power Supply is ideal for a CPAP battery backup. If power is lost, it will automatically kick in, and your therapy won’t miss a beat. Thanks to its 110V AC outlet, you won’t need to worry about any adapters or converters to get your CPAP machine set up either!
Types of CPAP Batteries
When it comes to powering your CPAP machine off-grid, there are two main options: deep cycle batteries (commonly found on boats, golf carts, and mobility scooters) and lithium-ion batteries (found in most modern electronics).
- Deep cycle batteries are typically found in auto part stores, are much heavier than lithium-ion batteries, and require special equipment to recharge. As a general rule of thumb with deep cycle batteries, more weight = more power.
- Lithium-ion batteries are the most common CPAP batteries available today and are designed to provide a decent runtime—some are even able to power a CPAP machine for multiple full nights of therapy! They also typically charge quickly, getting up to full power in four to six hours.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the two different types of CPAP batteries:
Deep Cycle:
- Limited Portability
- Setup is More Complicated/Involved
- Great for RV Camping
- Longer Battery Life
In order to connect to the deep cycle batteries, you can use an inverter. You’ll use alligator clips to connect to the positive and negative terminals, and then plug in your machine like you normally would.
It’s also possible to make a connection to the terminals with a normal cigarette-style outlet for machines that don’t need an inverter. You would then charge the battery using a DC cable.
If you’re looking for a light and simple option for a battery backup, we recommend a lithium-ion battery.
Lithium-Ion:
- Great Portability
- Use In-Flight
- Typically Plug-and-Play
- Quick Charge
- Great for Flying
In addition to this, you should also consider whether you’re interested in a battery solely for travel, a backup battery to protect you during power outages, or something that can do both.
CPAP Machine Battery Compatibility
| CPAP Machine | Compatible CPAP Batteries |
|---|---|
| ResMed AirSense 11 | Portable Outlet UPS Battery Zopec Power Outlet 2 |
| 3B Medical Luna II | Medistrom Pilot-24 Lite Zopec Power Outlet 2 |
| ResMed AirMini | Medistrom Pilot-24 Lite Portable Outlet UPS Battery EXP96 Pro Lithium Ion Battery Bank EXP48 Pro Lithium Ion Battery Bank BPS Freedom V2 Travel CPAP Battery + Machine Cable Kits Zopec Power Outlet 2 ResMed Power Station II Battery Kit |
| ResMed AirSense 10 | Medistrom Pilot-24 Lite Portable Outlet UPS Battery EXP96 Pro Lithium Ion Battery Bank EXP48 Pro Lithium Ion Battery Bank BPS Freedom V2 Travel CPAP Battery + Machine Cable Kits Zopec Power Outlet 2 ResMed Power Station II Battery Kit |
| HDM Z2 | Portable Outlet UPS Battery EXP96 Pro Lithium Ion Battery Bank EXP48 Pro Lithium Ion Battery Bank BPS Freedom V2 Travel CPAP Battery + Machine Cable Kits Zopec Power Outlet 2 Z2 PowerShell Extended Battery |
Best CPAP Batteries in 2023
Medistrom Pilot-24 Lite
The Medistrom Pilot-24 is a top-ranked CPAP battery thanks to its lightweight and compact design. It’s FAA compliant, meaning you can carry it on and use it during your flight.
The Medistrom Pilot-24 gained popularity because of its native compatibility with ResMed’s immensely popular AirSense 10 and AirMini CPAP machines. Not only can the Pilot-24 power your CPAP away from home, it can also act as a CPAP backup battery in the event of a power failure. It even features a USB port for charging mobile devices and a built-in LED flashlight!
Additionally, separate cables can be purchased to make the Pilot-24 compatible with the 3B Medical Luna and Philips Respironics DreamStation Go.
Alternatively, the Medistrom Pilot-12 is also available for 12-volt machines. It is compatible with the following:
- DeVilbiss IntelliPAP & IntelliPAP 2 (With Optional Cables)
- HDM Z1 and Z2 Series Machines (With Optional Cables)
- Philips DreamStation (Except DreamStation Go)
Drawbacks: As a lithium-ion battery, the Pilot-24 can’t tolerate excessively hot temperatures for extended periods of time. It cannot operate above 104° F, meaning it may not be the ideal choice for camping or hiking in hotter climates. It also doesn’t come with its own power supply, which means if you want to charge it, you’ll need to use the power supply that came with your compatible machine. A final drawback specific to AirMini owners is that charging the Pilot-24 using the AirMini’s power adapter takes 7-9 hours for a full charge compared to a 2-3 hour charge time with the AirSense 10’s power adapter.
| Features | Specs |
|---|---|
| Power Cell Type | LG Lithium-Ion |
| Charge Capacity in Watt Hours | 95Wh |
| Rated Output | DC 24V, 3.75A |
| USB Out | 1 Port – 5V, 2.5A |
| Lifespan | 500+ Charge Cycles |
| Battery Indicator | Status Lights |
| Recharge Time | 2-3 Hours *7-9 w/AirMini Power Supply |
| Can It Function as a Backup Battery? | Yes |
| FAA Compliant | Yes |
| Weight | 1.3 lbs |
| Dimensions | 3.5″ x 6.7″ x 0.8″ |
Zopec Power Outlet 2
The Zopec Power Outlet 2 charges in four hours and can provide a night of battery-powered CPAP therapy for most machines at up to 15 cm H2O with the humidifier and heated tubing turned off.
While it isn’t the longest-lasting CPAP battery, it is very versatile thanks to its standard AC outlet, USB-C port, and two standard USB ports for charging mobile devices. The Power Outlet 2 can charge or power anything that uses a standard AC power supply, including appliances, game consoles, televisions, and more.
Drawbacks: As a lithium-ion battery, the Zopec Power Outlet 2 can’t tolerate excessively hot temperatures for extended periods of time. It cannot operate above 104° F, meaning it may not be the ideal choice for camping or hiking in hotter climates. It is also the only battery on this list that does not have UPS functionality and cannot be used as a backup battery without manually switching to battery power during an outage.
| Features | |
|---|---|
| Power Cell Type | Panasonic Lithium-Ion |
| Charge Capacity in Watt Hours | 150Wh |
| Rated Output | AC 110V, 60Hz, 80W |
| USB Out | 2 Ports – 5V, 2.1A1 USB-C Port |
| Lifespan | 500+ Charge Cycles |
| Battery Indicator | Status Lights |
| Recharge Time | Under 4 Hours |
| Can It Function as a Backup Battery? | No |
| FAA Compliant | Yes |
| Weight | 2 lbs |
| Dimensions | 5″ x 7″ x 1.5″ |
BPS Freedom V2 Travel CPAP Battery + Machine Cable Kits
An upgrade on the original BPS Freedom CPAP Travel Battery, the Freedom V2 Travel CPAP Battery Kit has a 20% longer battery runtime and leaves bulky adapters as a thing of the past. This battery kit comes with the correct cable to work specifically with your compatible CPAP machine. The Freedom V2 works with both 12V and 24V machines.
The Freedom V2 can charge in as little as two hours and allows your CPAP machine to run for one to three nights. It also features a digital display screen to keep track of your charge levels and is FAA and TSA approved for air travel.
The Freedom V2 is compatible with:
- 10-Series AirSense, AirCurve, or AirStart Machines
- DreamStation Series Machines
- AirMini
- ResMed S9
Drawbacks: The Freedom V2 does not feature a full-sized AC outlet as other battery packs such as the Portable Outlet, and has limited compatibility. As a lithium-ion battery, the Freedom V2 can’t tolerate excessively hot temperatures for extended periods of time. It cannot operate above 104° F, meaning it may not be the ideal choice for camping or hiking in hotter climates.
| Features | Specs |
|---|---|
| Power Cell Type | LG/Samsung Lithium-Ion |
| Charge Capacity in Watt Hours | 99.9Wh |
| Rated Output | DC 12-24V, 8A |
| USB Out | 1 Port – 5V, 2.4A |
| Lifespan | 500+ Charge Cycles |
| Battery Indicator | Digital Screen |
| Recharge Time | 2-3 hrs @ 90W I 3-4 hrs @ 60W I 8-9 hrs @ 20W |
| Can It Function as a Backup Battery? | Yes |
| FAA Compliant | Yes |
| Weight | 1.7 lbs |
| Dimensions | 4.8″ x 7.5″ x 0.8″ |
Portable Outlet UPS Battery
If you’re going where there’s no electrical outlet in sight, you’ll appreciate the convenience of the Portable Outlet UPS Battery. The biggest benefit to the Portable Outlet is its versatility. You can power your CPAP machine, cell phone, laptop, or anything that uses a standard AC power supply!
The Portable Outlet can also be set up as an uninterruptible power supply to keep your therapy going during a power outage. It features a USB charge port for powering a mobile device at the same time and a detailed color display.
Drawbacks: The only real disadvantage to the Portable Outlet UPS is its weight and size compared to other FAA-approved CPAP batteries. It also only offers one USB port, though it is a 3.0A rapid charge port which most other batteries do not feature. As a lithium-ion battery, it also can’t tolerate excessively hot temperatures for extended periods of time. It cannot operate above 104° F, meaning it may not be the ideal choice for camping or hiking in hotter climates.
| Features | Specs |
|---|---|
| Power Cell Type | LG Lithium-Ion |
| Charge Capacity in Watt Hours | 159Wh |
| Rated Output | AC 110V, 60Hz, 100W |
| USB Out | 1 Port – 5V, 3.0A |
| Lifespan | 500+ Charge Cycles |
| Battery Indicator | Digital Screen |
| Recharge Time | 4-5 Hours |
| Can It Function as a Backup Battery? | Yes |
| FAA Compliant | Yes |
| Weight | 2.9 lbs |
| Dimensions | 5-3/8” x 9” x 1.5” |
EXP96 Pro Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery Bank
Easily the longest-lasting CPAP battery on this list, the EXP96 Pro advertises up to six full nights of CPAP use off-grid! While that number comes from testing without heated tubing or humidification, the EXP96 should still deliver at least two full nights of therapy for most machines, even at 14-16 cm H2O.
The EXP96 Pro has two USB ports and one USB Type-C port for keeping up with your mobile devices at the same time as your CPAP therapy. Instead of using lithium-ion cells, the EXP96 Pro utilizes lithium-iron-phosphate technology resulting in a battery with a ten-times-longer lifespan and higher tolerance for temperature fluctuations than lithium-ion batteries. It can power your devices anywhere between -4° F and 132° F and is not inherently flammable like lithium-ion batteries.
The EXP96 Pro is compatible with:
- AirMini
- AirSense 10
- AirCurve
- AirStart
- DreamStation Auto
- System One
- HDM Z1 and Z2
- IntelliPAP
- Transcend
Drawbacks: You will need to have your specific device’s DC cables to recharge or an inverter if using a machine that requires AC power. The EXP96 Pro is not FAA-approved, as it exceeds the maximum 160 watt-hour capacity requirement laid out by FAA regulations. It is also the heaviest CPAP battery on this list.
| Features | Specs |
|---|---|
| Power Cell Type | Lithium-Iron-Phosphate |
| Charge Capacity in Watt Hours | 307.2Wh |
| Rated Output | DC 12-24 V |
| USB Out | 2 Ports – 5V, 2.4A & 3.6-12V, 1.5-3.0A1 USB-C Port |
| Lifespan | 5000+ Charge Cycles |
| Battery Indicator | Status Lights |
| Recharge Time | 10-12 Hours |
| Can It Function as a Backup Battery? | Yes |
| FAA Compliant | No |
| Weight | 6.5 lbs |
| Dimensions | 6″ x 8.2″ x 3″ |
EXP48 Pro Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery Bank
For up to four nights, you can keep your CPAP machine running on the go with one charge thanks to the EXP48 Pro. The EXP48 Pro is approved for in-flight use and is powered by the same lithium-iron-phosphate technology as the EXP96 Pro.
With the inclusion of one USB-C port and two USB charging ports, one of which is rapid-charge capable, you’ll be able to power up to three additional devices in addition to your CPAP machine! It also has built-in rubber plugs and a durable outer shell, perfect for flying and other travel plans.
The EXP48 Pro is compatible with:
- AirMini
- AirSense 10
- AirCurve
- AirStart
- DreamStation Auto
- HDM Z1 and Z2
- IntelliPAP
- Transcend
Drawbacks: Like the EXP96 Pro, you will need to have your machine-specific DC charger. It is also the second-heaviest battery on this list.
| Features | Specs |
|---|---|
| Power Cell Type | Lithium-Iron-Phosphate |
| Charge Capacity in Watt Hours | 154Wh |
| Rated Output | DC 12-24 V |
| USB Out | 2 Ports – 5V, 2.4A & 3.6-12V, 1.5-3.0A1 USB-C Port |
| Lifespan | 5000+ Charge Cycles |
| Battery Indicator | Status Lights |
| Recharge Time | 4-6 Hours |
| Can It Function as a Backup Battery? | Yes |
| FAA Compliant | Yes |
| Weight | 3.3 lbs |
| Dimensions | 6″ x 8.2″ x 1.6″ |
What Size Battery Do I Need for My CPAP?
Outside of compatibility with your machine, the single most important aspect of any battery purchase is its capacity. Battery capacity is measured in watt-hours (Wh) and how far you can stretch those watt-hours depends on your machine as well as your pressure and comfort settings.
Most CPAP machines will draw 30-60 watts on a pressure setting of 5-10 cm H2O without a humidifier or heated tube, but peak power consumption can go as high as 90-110 watts for a machine running a humidifier at a higher pressure setting.
Simply put, one watt-hour of energy would be consumed if your CPAP machine operated at one watt for one hour. Looking at a real example, let’s take the Medistrom Pilot-24, which has a capacity of 99.9Wh, and the ResMed AirMini, which operates at an average draw of 6.3W.
After dividing the 99.9Wh capacity by the average draw of 6.3 watts per hour, we see that the Medistrom Pilot-24 could power an AirMini for 15.8 hours before needing a recharge—assuming the power draw remains at 6.3W the whole time. Please note, though, that this is only a general rule of thumb and can be affected by many of the variables we’ve already mentioned, in addition to whether the battery is suppplying AC or DC power. Travel CPAP machines are also significantly more energy efficient than their full-sized counterparts.
Also worth noting is that if you plan to travel by air with your new battery you’ll be limited to a capacity of 160Wh per FAA and TSA guidelines. However, if you plan to use your battery as a backup power source, you’ll want the largest capacity battery you can reasonably afford.
Battery Run Time
Most lithium-ion CPAP batteries are designed to last at least one night per charge, though some can handle two or more nights. However, battery runtimes can vary depending on:
- Machine Type/Age
- Pressure Setting
- Humidification Use
- Altitude Level
- Inverter Use
Because there are so many variables that can affect the run time of your CPAP machine on battery power, we recommend spending 1-2 weeks powering your CPAP machine solely from your new CPAP battery before you ever need to rely on it away from home.
This will help you set reasonable expectations for the battery and allow you to dial in exactly how much humidity you can get away with without draining your battery before the night is done. It’ll also give you a good idea of how long it takes to recharge your battery.
How to Achieve Longer Battery Run Times
If you’re able to, there are a few things you can sacrifice to improve the runtime you’ll get out of your battery. Camping with your CPAP or running on backup power may not always be the most comfortable experience, and for the best results, you may need to:
- Forego Humidification
- Use a Standard, Non-Heated Hose
- Avoid Using an Inverter if Possible
- Use an APAP Machine (Can Reduce Battery Load by Using the Lowest Necessary Pressure)
A travel CPAP machine will typically perform much better on a CPAP battery than a full-sized machine. It may also help to use a machine-specific battery instead of a universal battery if your manufacturer makes one. A good example of this would be the Extended Life Battery for the Z1 and Z2 Travel CPAP Machine or the Resmed Power Station II for the ResMed S9, AirSense 10, and AirCurve 10.
Are CPAP Batteries FAA Compliant?
For frequent travelers, we have great news! Many CPAP batteries are approved for in-flight use and can be used to safely power your CPAP machine while you travel to your next destination. Many of the batteries are lightweight and ultra-portable so fitting them inside your carry-on bag will be a breeze.
You can finally sleep on even your longest flights and get to your destination feeling refreshed and awake. If you fly often, a travel CPAP machine may also be useful for your adventures.
FAA and TSA Guidelines for Lithium-Ion Batteries:
Per TSA and FAA guidelines, lithium-ion batteries, such as CPAP batteries, must be stored in carry-on baggage only and are prohibited in checked luggage. Exposed battery terminals must also be covered and protected from direct contact with any other metal to prevent an accidental short-circuit.
There is no technical limit to the number of lithium-ion batteries you can pack in your carry-on so long as no single battery exceeds a capacity of 100Wh and the batteries are for personal use and not for resale or distribution. You may also pack up to two spare high-capacity batteries with a maximum capacity of 160Wh per battery, though the FAA states that these spare batteries are only allowed at the discretion of your airline. Thankfully, every major US airline allows for these high-capacity spare batteries at the time of this writing, including Delta, United, American Airlines, and Southwest.
Which CPAP Batteries Are FAA Approved for In-Flight Use?
One of the most popular FAA-approved lithium-ion batteries is the Medistrom Pilot-24 Lite. It’s one of the lightest CPAP batteries around and is compatible with many popular CPAP machines. Lithium-ion batteries are the go-to when it comes to in-flight use, and the only battery on this list that actually isn’t FAA-approved is the EXP96 Pro due simply to its impressive 307.2Wh capacity.
Commonly Asked Questions About CPAP Batteries
- Can You Rent a CPAP Battery?
- Yes, some storefront DMEs may offer a battery rental service if you’re looking for a local option, but there are also websites that specialize in rentals for CPAP batteries at reasonable prices. The same is true for deep-cycle batteries.
- Does Medicare or Other Insurance Pay for Cpap Battery Backup?
- No, a CPAP battery is not considered a necessity and is not covered by insurance or Medicare.
- What CPAP Machines Have a Built-In Battery? Do CPAP Machines Come With a Battery Backup?
- Unfortunately, no CPAP machines include a backup battery or have one built-in.
- Are CPAP Batteries FSA Eligible?
- Yes, CPAP batteries can be reimbursed using FSA or HSA funds.
- How Much Does a CPAP Battery Typically Cost?
- When shopping for a CPAP battery, you can expect to spend anywhere between $250 and $500 depending on capacity and machine compatibility. To get the most out of your purchase, we recommend a universal battery like the Portable Outlet UPS Battery or Zopec Power Outlet 2, as they both feature a standard AC outlet capable of powering just about anything you can plug into it.
Final Thoughts
We hope this guide was helpful in preparing you to choose the best CPAP battery for your machine or next adventure!
Don’t forget to thoroughly test and understand your new battery in the comfort of your home well in advance of any travel plans you plan to take it on. Be aware of the temperature restrictions of your battery and FAA guidelines if flying. Lastly, make sure you have any special cables or adapters your CPAP/battery combo may require as well.
Universal batteries like the Portable Outlet and Zopec Power Outlet 2 are a great choice for their versatility, but machine-specific batteries may be better-optimized for power consumption, so be sure to explore your options before purchasing.
Whether you’re hitting the trail or opting for a battery backup, you can’t go wrong by having a CPAP battery on hand and ready to go!
Eric graduated from Texas State University in 2016 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism. He has worked as a freelance photographer, editor, and writer. Eric is committed to providing the most value possible to CPAP.com readers by creating a highly approachable user experience, with an emphasis on actionable information and thorough research.