Winter Storm Preparedness for CPAP: Tips & Checklist

To avoid treatment disruptions during or after a hurricane, it's important to start thinking about what you'll need to do and the supplies you'll need to stock up on. 

You should be prepared to go at least three days without power. But, most experts suggest planning for an entire week, if possible.

As winter approaches, shipping delays and empty store shelves become far more common—especially when snow or ice is in the forecast. That’s why it helps to take inventory of your supplies early on and make a plan for anything you may need.

Rather than waiting until a storm hits, aim to stock up before the winter weather is on its way. And if you use up emergency supplies during a storm or outage, plan to replace them as soon as the weather improves, so you’re ready for the next cold snap.

Many power companies maintain a medical needs registry for customers who rely on essential medical equipment like CPAP machines. Adding your CPAP to this list can help you receive outage alerts and, depending on your provider, access to special billing options or backup power programs. In some cases, it could also mean getting your electricity restored faster. 

Winter storms can disrupt water treatment systems—especially during freezing temperatures or widespread power outages—leaving tap water unsafe or temporarily unavailable. Pipes can also burst or lose pressure, increasing the risk of contamination.

Pay close attention to local advisories, including boil-water notices or usage restrictions from your city or county. If water isn’t declared safe for drinking, it shouldn’t be used in your CPAP humidifier or for cleaning CPAP equipment.

Even when you’re sheltering in place during a winter storm, keeping your CPAP equipment clean is essential. Bacteria can start to grow within hours, and mold can develop in as little as one day—especially in cold homes with limited airflow.

For regular care, mild soap and clean water are usually enough. If water access is limited, CPAP-safe wipes, sanitizing sprays, or distilled vinegar can help you maintain hygiene until normal routines resume.

Because germs thrive in warm, damp conditions, always allow your mask, hose, and water chamber to fully air-dry between uses whenever possible.

Severe winter weather can delay deliveries for days and clear out local store shelves just as quickly. If a storm hits when it’s time to replace a mask cushion or filter, you could be forced to use worn-out CPAP supplies that reduce comfort and therapy effectiveness.

CPAP parts don’t all wear out at the same pace—some filters need reminds every few weeks, while others last months. Take a moment now to review your CPAP replacement schedule and stock up on essentials before winter weather disrupts shipping and supply chains.

If you rely on a CPAP battery that provides just one or two nights of power, conserving energy is essential during an outage. Plan ahead so you’re not caught off guard if power restoration takes longer than expected.

Before a storm hits, ask yourself:

• How many hours of therapy can your battery provide on a full charge?

• What settings can you adjust to reduce power use each night?

• How will you recharge if the battery runs low before power returns?

• How long does a full recharge take before it’s ready again?

Thinking through these details ahead of time can help you sleep more confidently through winter weather disruptions.

If winter storms and power outages are common where you live, you may already have access to a generator—or know someone who does. Generators can safely power your CPAP during an outage, as long as they’re used correctly.

Fuel-powered generators should always be operated outdoors, even in cold weather. To use one with your CPAP, run a heavy-duty extension cord from your machine through a window or door to the generator outside—never bring the generator indoors.

If you prefer an indoor option, solar or battery-based generators or power stations are a safer alternative. These units can be used inside your home and provide a reliable backup power source for CPAP therapy during extended winter outages.

Even if you still have cell service, there's  Keeping your phone charged lets you contact loved ones, track weather updates, and coordinate medical help if needed.

A small solar panel, car adapter, or power bank is perfect for keeping essential devices charged. Some can even top off your CPAP battery during grid outages, giving you extra nights of therapy while crews restore power.

A good CPAP battery can automatically kick in if the power goes out, helping you stay consistent with your therapy—even during outages from snow, ice, or extreme cold.

While batteries may not fit every budget, they offer real peace of mind during winter. You’ll have more flexibility with where you sleep, how close you need to be to an outlet, and what to do if the power fails overnight.

If you’re thinking about buying a battery, ask yourself:

• How often do you lose power in the winter?
• How long do outages usually last?
• Will you have a way to recharge the battery if needed?

Winter weather can make it difficult to keep up with your CPAP routine, especially when you're expecting the lights to go out. The best thing you can do to protect your sleep and your CPAP gear is to make a survival plan early on and stick to it.

Before the winter storm

• Refill prescriptions early in case roads are unsafe.
• Ask your doctor for advice on using CPAP during power outages or in very cold conditions.
• Create a plan for medical emergencies, including transportation in snow or ice.
• Schedule regular check-ins with friends or family.
• If you use oxygen, get extra tanks and store them safely.
• Stock up on 1–2 weeks of shelf-stable food.
• Keep extra bottled water and distilled water for your CPAP humidifier.
• Fill bathtubs or containers with water in case pipes freeze.
• Make a shelter-in-place plan and identify warmest areas of your home.
• Pack a 5-day “go bag” in case you need to evacuate or relocate.
• Choose a central, insulated room to conserve heat during outages.
• Inform your utility company that you rely on a CPAP device.
• Set up your battery backup in advance (plug it into the wall, and plug your CPAP into the battery).
• Order spare masks, filters, and tubing to avoid delays due to winter shipping disruptions.
• Gather CPAP cleaning supplies that don’t require water, such as wipes or sprays.
• Check flashlights and headlamps to make sure they work.
• Keep a car charger or small battery for phones and emergency gear.
• Have a long, cold-weather-rated extension cord on hand if you need to relocate within your home.
• If you're planning to buy a backup battery or generator, do it before the storm hits.

During the winter storm

• Stay in the area you chose for shelter—preferably warm, windowless, and insulated.
• Keep in touch with loved ones at agreed-upon times.
• Store your CPAP in your go-bag if you need to move quickly.
• If using a battery, turn off your humidifier to conserve power.
• Listen to weather updates and emergency alerts via battery-powered radio or phone.
• If using a generator, always keep it outside to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Clean your CPAP equipment daily, if possible, using no-rinse wipes.
• Replace worn-out CPAP parts as needed, especially if delivery will be delayed due to snow.

After the winter storm

• Stay indoors until roads and sidewalks are safe.
• Read about power line safety, and if you go outside, avoid downed power lines.
• Remember, even if the snow clears, power outages may continue.
• Track utility updates and local alerts about grid status.
• Follow boil water notices if pipes burst or water supply is disrupted.
• Avoid cleaning activities that stir up dust or mold—protect your airway.
• See a doctor if you develop a cough or have trouble breathing post-storm.
• Restock your winter CPAP emergency kit for the next weather event.
• Let your provider know if your CPAP machine or battery was damaged during the storm.