Can I Use a Used CPAP Machine?

March 29, 2023 |

CPAP Tips and Tutorial, CPAP Reviews & Ratings

This post was originally posted on June 5, 2022, and updated on April 26, 2022.

We’re all looking for ways to save money but when it comes to your health, remember there is a price to pay if you try to cut corners. While buying a used machine may save you money upfront, there is a significant cost to compromising the quality and efficacy of your CPAP therapy. Here’s what to consider when deciding between purchasing a used or new CPAP machine.

Dangers of Using Someone Else's CPAP Machine

When you purchase a used CPAP machine, little is known of the previous user. You are unfamiliar with their own medical history and daily care regimens. Even a thorough cleaning and sanitizing after purchase cannot completely eliminate previous contamination. CPAP machines create a warm, sometimes moist environment, making them ideal breeding grounds for yeast, mold, bacteria and mildew—especially if the previous owner did not properly take care of the machine.

There is also a lot unknown about the previous owner’s lifestyle. For example, did the owner have pets that could have come in contact with the equipment? Did they live in a part of the country that was humid, high altitude, or closer to the desert that might impact the way the machine works?

Lastly, if you do not purchase a new machine, your device is not covered by a manufacturer’s warranty. If the device fails to work efficiently, it could be a costly mistake!

Keep Sanitation a Priority

Every CPAP machine requires maintaining a manufacturer-recommended strict cleaning and replacement regimen. Following these requirements is essential for the effective use and long-term maintenance of your machine. Failure to follow proper cleaning protocols can result in germs entering your CPAP machine and can lead to sinus and respiratory infections, pneumonia, bronchitis and other illnesses from bacteria and viruses. With used CPAP machines where the history of cleaning is unclear, the risk of infection is significantly higher.

Should I Purchase a Used CPAP Machine?

The health risks of buying a used CPAP machine alone outweighs the savings. However, keep in mind that the FDA considers CPAP machines Class II medical devices, which means that they cannot be sold or purchased without a medical prescription.

Avoid CPAP machines you find in garage sales or on Craigslist. Avoid online companies selling “gently used” CPAP machines. Also, do not take a used CPAP machine from a friend, even if it’s free.

Benefits of a New CPAP Machine Compared to a Used CPAP Machine

Besides having the peace of mind that a clean, brand new CPAP machine is all yours and has never been shared with another person, there are other benefits over buying a used CPAP machine.

Your new machine should fit your exact CPAP prescription needs, while an old machine may not. Each machine that is purchased at The CPAP Shop is calibrated to fit your needs based on your physician’s recommendations.
You can more easily get replacement parts for new CPAP machines, compared to old out-of-date used machines.
Newer machines work more efficiently and are designed to have fewer parts for a longer lifecycle.
You receive the full warranty on a new machine. Old machines may have expired warranty protection. If your machine doesn’t work well after purchase, you will not be covered for any repair or replacement and will need to buy a new machine anyway.
New CPAP machines can last up to five years. A used machine may be nearing the end of its life by the time you purchase.

Don’t Purchase a Used CPAP Machine if You Can Afford a New CPAP

Because using a new CPAP machine is so important for your health, The CPAP Shop does not sell used or refurbished CPAP equipment and recommends that you only purchase from a supplier that guarantees the same quality of products. You want to be sure the products you purchase come directly from the manufacturer.

The CPAP Shop has partnered with Bread to offer financing options. Learn more here.

We provide zero APR financing so you can pay for your new CPAP machine in low monthly payments.
Because up to 20% of US veterans are affected by sleep apnea, we offer special discounts to veterans.

For more questions about CPAP equipment, financing. or your CPAP therapy needs, speak to our customer care team. We’re here to help get you the products you need for a better night’s sleep. Call 866-414-9700 or email us at questions@thecpapshop.com.

Dangers of Using Someone Else's Machine

Safety Risks of Used CPAP Equipment

Using someone else's CPAP machines can be unsafe due to the other person's germs and contaminants already on any equipment. If they are sick or have any harmful substances coming from their mouth or lungs, another person can quickly become contaminated with the same illnesses.

Additionally, since CPAP machines in particular provide a warm, moist environment, pathogens like mold, bacteria, or others can easily form if it's not cleaned and maintained properly. Because of this, not only can pathogens form, but so can illnesses like respiratory infections, pneumonia, tuberculosis, and more.

Warranty and Replacement Issues

Using someone else's CPAP machine can also come with complication in terms of performance and quality. Some older machines do not perform as well as newer ones. Additionally, depending on how old the machine is, its replacement parts and accessories may be hard to find or unavailable for purchase, meaning the CPAP couldn't be used at all. Like other things that are bought used, the buyer can not be certain it will work properly, and it will not come with a warranty for protection.

Lack of Latest Technology Features

A used machine that is an older model is not equipped with all the latest technology and features that have come out recently. They may not include humidity features, AutoRamo features, recording software, and more. Not having newer features can impact the overall CPAP experience in a negative way. Effectiveness and comfort would not be as good as it could if you are not using a newer model.

Additionally, when using an older used model, health care providers may not be able to provide as much support or guidance, as there are not many recommendations they can make to improve therapy without the updated features.

Keep Sanitation a Priority

Every CPAP machine should follow manufacturer-recommended strict cleaning and part replacement guidelines. Following these requirements is essential for the effective use and long-term maintenance of your machine. Failure to follow proper cleaning protocols can result in sinus and respiratory infections, pneumonia, bronchitis and other illnesses from bacteria and viruses. With used CPAP machines where the history of cleaning is unclear, the risk of infection is significantly higher.

Should I Purchase a Used CPAP Machine?

The health risks of buying a used CPAP machine outweighs the savings. Also keep in mind that the FDA considers CPAP machines Class II medical devices, which means that they cannot be sold or purchased without a medical prescription.

Benefits of a New CPAP Machine Compared to a Used CPAP Machine

Besides having the peace of mind that a clean, new CPAP machine is all yours and has never been shared with another person, there are other benefits over buying a used CPAP machine.
Your new machine should fit your exact CPAP prescription needs, while an old machine may not. Each machine that is purchased at The CPAP Shop is calibrated to fit your needs based on your physician’s recommendations.
You can more easily get replacement parts for new CPAP machines, compared to old out-of-date, used machines.
Newer machines work more efficiently and are designed to have fewer parts for a longer life cycle.
You receive a full warranty on a new machine. Old machines may have expired warranty protection. If your machine doesn’t work well after purchase, you will not be covered for any repair or replacement and will need to buy a new machine anyway.
New CPAP machines can last up to five years. A used machine may be nearing the end of its life by the time you purchase it.

Used vs. Refurbished CPAP Machines

While we always recommend being a new machine over a used or refurbished one, a refurbished CPAP machine is a safer alternative than a used one. When buying a refurbished machine, the reseller must be trustworthy and must verify you prescription. Additionally, a refurbished machine reseller is also more likely to follow FDA guidelines.

Don't Purchase a Used CPAP Machine if you Can Afford a New CPAP

The CPAP Shop has partnered with Bread to offer financing options. Learn more here.

We provide zero APR financing so you can pay for your new CPAP machine in low monthly payments.
Because up to 20% of US veterans are affected by sleep apnea, we offer special discounts to veterans.

For more questions about CPAP equipment, and financing. or your CPAP therapy needs, speak to our customer care team. We’re here to help get you the products you need for a better night’s sleep. Call 866-414-9700 or email us at questions@thecpapshop.com.