DC Cables for CPAP Machines

When you don't have access to an AC socket, having a way to keep your CPAP machine powered up is important. Thankfully, there are many alternative power sources you can use while camping, during a power outage, or on any long road trip or flight. With a CPAP DC converter, you can power your machine with the 12V or 24V DC outlet found in most vehicles. CPAP DC converters are great for long-haul truck drivers, marine and overseas travelers, and anyone traveling in a recreational vehicle. Keeping a DC converter and 12V or 24V power source on hand in case of emergencies will ensure you don’t have to spend a night without your CPAP machine.

What Is a DC Converter for CPAP?

A CPAP DC converter can connect your CPAP machine directly to a 12V or 24V DC power source. While there are battery packs like the EXP48 Pro, which feature a 12V outlet, you’ll also commonly find 12V outlets in cars, trucks, boats, and RVs. A DC converter keeps your power options versatile when traveling or going off the grid. 

CPAP DC Converter and 12 Volt Adapters for All ResMed Machines

The following DC converters and 12 volt adapters are designed to work specifically with the ResMed AirSense and AirMini devices:

• DC Adapter for the AirSense 10

For the AirSense 10 itself, we recommend the ResMed AirSense 10 DC Converter that connects to 12 V or 24 V power sources.

• DC Converter for S9 Series Machines

For ResMed S9 Series machines, we recommend the ResMed S9 DC Converter.

• ResMed AirMini DC Converter

If you’re using an AirMini, the DC Converter for AirMini is the best option for powering your AirMini device with a DC outlet as it’s designed specifically for the AirMini.

CPAP Machine Voltage

When you plug your CPAP machine into a wall outlet in the US, the outlet delivers a 110-volt current. When traveling overseas, however, you’ll experience different outlet shapes, and in some countries, wall outlets deliver a 220-volt current or a 240-volt current.

A CPAP DC power cord connects the machine directly to a battery pack that delivers a 12-volt current. This is sufficient for running most CPAP machines at the same capacity that they would run if plugged into an AC outlet. There are some unique circumstances that may require more than just a DC power converter, however.

Some machines cannot run on DC power and will require an inverter to convert DC power to AC power. There are also CPAP machines that require a specific type of inverter known as a sine wave inverter. While an inverter will supply a crude version of AC power, a sine wave inverter produces a much smoother and more efficient waveform that’s much more comparable to the alternating current supplied by a wall outlet. 

Many CPAP machines need 30 to 90 watts of power. The type of machine you have (CPAP, BiPAP, or APAP) will largely determine its power needs. If your CPAP machine has many advanced features like a built-in humidifier, leak detection, or auto ramp, you will need more power. Attached accessories can also increase your power needs but you do have the option to turn these settings off in order to save the power of your machine. 

Although you can certainly calculate the exact power output necessary for your machine, there are often already products available from your machine’s manufacturer that can take the guesswork out of finding a power source. 

Charging Your CPAP Battery With a DC Power Cord

While the longest-lasting CPAP batteries will power your machine for up to two nights while off-the-grid, the reality of the situation is that most will need to be recharged after each night of use to guarantee another full night’s charge. Charging your CPAP battery can be tricky when camping or traveling, but a DC power cord is an easy way to charge your equipment using the cigarette-style DC outlet found in most vehicles. 

Your CPAP battery discharges DC power, so recharging it with DC power is perfectly safe and reliable!