What is the Quietest CPAP Machine on the Market?

May 11, 2020 |

A noisy CPAP machine can interrupt peaceful sleep for you and your bed partner and impact your CPAP compliance. Fortunately, developments in CPAP machine technology have made CPAP machines quieter than ever. Here are some customer favorites for keeping a sound sleep soundless.

How Loud Is A CPAP Machine?

All CPAP machines come with a decibel rating, which is specified by the manufacturer. The majority of CPAP machines have a rating of about 30db, which is the same as a whispered conversation. One remarkable factor about CPAP machine noise is that as you increase the intensity or pressure of the CPAP therapy, it proportionally increases the volume 10 decibels at a time.

Quietest CPAP Machines

Fortunately, most CPAP machines run quieter than 30 decibels (dBA). That’s comparable to someone whispering or a clock ticking. Having said that, there are still some that run quieter than others.

AirSense 10 CPAP Machine

The ResMed AirSense 10 AutoSet CPAP Machine features an Easy-Breathe motor foam and isolating materials incorporated into the base of the device. It produces minimal turbulence, delivering more performance, and virtually eliminates the noise radiated into the room.

AirSense 11 CPAP Machine

The AirSense 11 AutoSet CPAP Machine delivers the quietest possible CPAP therapy at 27 decibels. Get access to Personal Therapy Assistant and Care Check-In features with the MyAir companion app.

The Luna G3 CPAP offers the quietest CPAP therapy to its users, not louder than a whispered conversation, with a sound rating of 30 decibels. Moreover, the G3 CPAP also comes with a heated hose featuring a heated humidifier and helps to provide consistent humidification.

3B Medical Luna G3 CPAP Machine

Quietest Travel CPAP Machines

ResMed AirMini Travel CPAP Machine

For the quietest CPAP devices while you’re on the go, consider going with the AirMini Travel CPAP Machine. When this device is connected to either a N20 or P10 mask, the sound level drops to only 25 dBa, making it the quietest travel CPAP device there is. However, there have been a significant number of complaints about the noise emanating from the interface with the mask, particularly the F20.

Philips Respironics DreamStation Go Travel CPAP Machine

The DreamStation Go, a premium travel unit by Philips Respironics, is whisper quiet at 30 dBa and has had no real sound issues with any mask worn while using it.

Troubleshooting Your CPAP Noise Problems

Even with the quietest machines, your CPAP device is still going to produce some sound. If the noise continues to bother you, try placing your device farther away from you or below you on the ground. This will soften any noise coming directly from the machine although not from the mask.

Also make sure that your device’s filter is clean to prevent dust and debris from lodging themselves in the device’s motor. The more dirt and grime caught in the motor, the louder it is going to run, so keeping the filter nice and clean will go a long way!

Finally, if you notice any bubbling noises emanating from your device, there’s a good chance that the water level in the humidifier is too low. Once you fill it up to the proper level, the sound should go away.

Bonus Tips: How to Deal with Noise Coming Through Your CPAP Mask

In the past, you may have heard either whistling or sucking sounds coming from your mask or tubing. In some cases, these noises are being caused by a mask.

Addressing these noises is important not only because they’re annoying, but also because most CPAP units will increase their pressure on a mask leak. This, in turn, could increase noise levels. Moreover, a mask leak means you are not optimizing your sleep therapy or getting the full benefit from it.

If the air appears to be seeping out between your face and your mask, it could mean that a new cushion or replacement part is necessary. Always keep replacement cushions available as they tend to wear out in six months. Avoid pulling the headgear straps since that will cause soreness and aggravation. If the problem persists, there’s a chance that it’s time to replace your full mask or that the mask is the wrong size. The full mask should be replaced at a minimum at least twice a year. If a mask replacement is necessary, make sure the size is correct.

Speaking directly to your equipment provider for suggestions is highly recommended. At The CPAP Shop, our 30 day guarantee can be a highly useful policy to find the perfectly fit mask. Give us a call at 866-414-9700 or email us at questions@thecpapshop.com.

Chris Vasta is the president of The CPAP Shop and an expert in sleep and respiratory therapy. He often provides insights on product design and functionality on various manufacturers’ prototypes and is frequently tapped to provide reviews on new releases.