What is the Quietest CPAP Machine on the Market?
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.
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.
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.
ResMed AirSense 10
• An auto-adjusting device for treating sleep apnea that includes a built-in humidifier, is whisper-quiet, and offers free shipping
Shop NowQuietest Travel CPAP Machines
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.
ResMed AirMini Travel CPAP
• Provides all the comfort and convenience provided by your home auto CPAP in a small, travel-ready package
Shop NowThe 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.
Philips Respironics DreamStation Go Auto
• Half the size of the larger at-home DreamStation machine with many of the same powerful therapy options
Purchase NowTroubleshooting 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.
Author
Chris Vasta
Over a 10+ year career at PHH Mortgage managing a $100 million portfolio, Chris Vasta learned the ins and outs of the business world. He learned how to establish business relationships, lead a multi-prong team, and implement strategies for long-term growth. In 2007, Vasta used that experience to transition his role into president of The CPAP Shop. Over his tenure, Vasta has been involved in everything from website design to warehouse layout. His hands-on approach with customers has evolved into an in-depth understanding of the challenges of beginning and adhering to sleep therapy. He often provides his insights on product…
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If I get an adapter to use my air sense 10 hose and mask, will that eliminate the noise people are speaking about?
Hi Terri, instead of getting an adapter, you may just want to invest in a proper compatible mask. Although any mask would work with an AirSense 10 CPAP Machine, ResMed recommends you use one from their AirFit or AirTouch line. Check them out here.
I bought the ResMed AirMini and am disappointed with the amount of noise that comes it, mostly from the mask. What can be done to lessen the hissing of air from the mask? Are there other masks I can use on this machine?
Hi Karen, the AirMini can only be used with the AirFit F20, F30, N20 and P10. Make sure that the seal is secure without over tightening to avoid leaks. You may need or want to try a different compatible mask to see if that helps with the noise. For further assistance, don’t hesitate to give our customer care team a call at 866-414-9700.
If Ford Motor Company can silence a 500 Cubic Inch V8 engine,
If BMW can silence a 1500cc motorcycle,
if the USA can silence the muzzle blast of a rifle (though not the ballistic crack)
Then any designer or sound engineer who is worth his daily peanuts
can silence a danmed CPAP if they put their mind to it.
Noisy machines are an insult to our intelligence, and their sales reps should be treated accordingly.
ANYbody can build an air pump that runs from the power of a diesel tractor or a Pratt & Whitney aircraft radial engine. And CPAPs are readily available for a price if you want to listen to the racket.
The ONLY things that any company has to offer are (IMHO) Price. Build and design quality. Ease of maintenance. Portability. Comfort. And SILENCE!
Turn one of your office rooms into a “sound room,” and when the next factory rep comes by to showcase his wares, step into it with him for a few minutes.
As the Rolls Royce people so famously told their engineers, “Gentlemen, we must silence that clock!”
Some of us are so sound sensitive as to experience physical pain from everyday noise.
And for some, it just drives us psycho.
As one fellow traveller told me, (second night on the road) “Go silent or go to hell! I’m not sleeping two weeks with that continuous racket.” I understand perfectly. Another 10 days of renting a separate hotel room was expensive. I can tolerate soft snoring … it is a natural sound. But the hissing and clacking of a CPAP drives me over the edge.
J.D. Arvin
We apologize, please give us a call at 1(866) 414-9700, to see if there is something we can do to help reduce the noise level. We appreciate your feedback and can relay this to the Manufacturer.
I need a CPAP with 4 qualifications.
Power sourced OFF the Mains for remote locations. (Battery Operable)
Silent. Courtesy for fellow travelers who do not want to listen to the danmed thing.
Small, Portable.
Comfortable. The objective is, after all, to sleep.
Hello, Jerry. For assistance finding the most suitable CPAP for you, please call our customer service team at 1-866-414-9700.