Merritt Wakefield - Sleep Health Writer
Written and edited by Merritt Wakefield. Merritt is a Sleep Health Writer and CPAP Research Specialist who combines strong writing skills with a passion for in-depth research on sleep apnea and CPAP therapy. Her approach involves thorough examination of scientific studies, medical journals, and the latest CPAP technology, translating complex information into clear, engaging prose. Merritt's articles explore the benefits of sleep therapy, break down CPAP product features, and aim to empower readers with knowledge for informed decision-making about their treatment. Her work reflects a keen understanding of the challenges faced by those with sleep apnea, encouraging consistent therapy use for improved health and quality of life.
Our content undergoes rigorous expert review, evidence-based research, and regular updates for accuracy.
You routinely switch out your toothbrush and take your car in to have its oil changed—your CPAP equipment is no different. Like other everyday items, part of caring for your CPAP device and its accessories is regularly replacing them based on outlined replacement schedules.
You probably know that your CPAP mask, cushions, and tubing should be replaced every three months, but you may be wondering how often you should replace your CPAP machine.
How Long Does a CPAP Machine Last?
Most standard CPAP machines will need to be replaced after 5 years. However, travel CPAP devices tend to have a shorter lifespan, lasting between 3-5 years. Insurance companies, including Medicare, will usually replace your CPAP machine every 5 years.
When to Replace Your CPAP Machine
A CPAP machine's life expectancy varies based on the specific brand and model, but on average, most CPAP machines can be used for approximately three to five years before it’s time to replace them.
| MACHINE TYPE | LIFE EXPECTANCY |
| Philips Respironics DreamStation Auto | 5 years |
| Philips Respironics DreamStation Go | 3 to 5 years |
| ResMed AirSense 10 AutoSet | 5 years |
| ResMed AirMini | 3 years |
| Z2 Auto Travel CPAP Machine | 3 to 5 years |
| DeVilbiss IntelliPAP 2 Auto Adjust | 5 years |
Most health insurance providers, including Medicare, usually cover one new CPAP machine within the three to five-year replacement schedule. Even if your CPAP device seems to be working well, it is recommended to get a new one when you are eligible for a replacement to ensure continuous, dependable sleep therapy night after night.
If you change insurance companies or plan to pay out of pocket, you may be able to replace the unit sooner if desired. Should you have issues with your CPAP machine within the first two to three years, its repair or replacement may be covered under the manufacturer’s warranty.
Why You Should Routinely Replace Your CPAP Machine
Like most everyday items, consistent use of your CPAP machine contributes to the overall deterioration of performance over time—even with a strict cleaning routine, older machines can still cause respiratory or sinus infections and other ailments from built-up contamination. To ensure your sleep apnea therapy is always effective, it's critical to replace it regularly.
One major reason to replace your CPAP machine is because of new technological advancements, which can significantly improve your sleep therapy experience and help you stay healthy. While it’s essential to replace your CPAP machine on schedule, it’s also an opportunity to experience new comfort features and innovative technology functions. Some of our favorite new CPAP machine features are:
- Quick, convenient sleep stats: Some CPAP machines are equipped with wireless connectivity, which sends your sleep data directly to your healthcare team and allows you to view a digest of the previous night’s sleep each morning when you wake.
- Quieter–performing accessories: Improvements made to masks and motors over the last few years, like built-in diffusers and multi-directional openings, help you and your partner sleep more peacefully.
- Enhanced humidification: Lighter and more compact than ever, new integrated humidifiers are easier to fill and clean, take up less space, and may include improved heated tubing that prevents water from condensing in the tube.
Before replacing your CPAP machine, talk with your doctor about your options. Together, you and your physician can identify a CPAP machine that your doctor thinks will be beneficial for you so you have a near–customized set–up for consistent, effective sleep therapy.
What to Do With Your Old CPAP Machine
Once you have replaced or upgraded your CPAP machine, you can sell your old CPAP machine to an authorized reseller to recoup some of your money, or you can donate any CPAP device to the American Sleep Apnea Association or other participating charities.
To donate, the CPAP machine must be less than six years old. If there aren’t donation opportunities where you live, your retired CPAP machine can be recycled if approved by your local recycling center. Keep in mind that some recycling centers charge to recycle certain items.
You can tell when it’s time to replace your CPAP machine when you notice its performance isn’t as strong as it used to be or once its features become dysfunctional. A good rule of thumb, though, is to follow the manufacturer replacement schedule and replace or upgrade your CPAP machine every three to five years.
Ready to start shopping? View our catalog of CPAP, APAP, and BiPAP machines here.
