Home > CPAP Winter Preparedness Guide

CPAP Winter Preparedness Guide

Shop now

Tips for Comfortable Therapy During Weather-Related CPAP Issues

Have Backup Power Solutions

In case of a power outage during a winter storm, it is recommended to have a backup battery that is charged and ready for use.

Adjust Your Humidifier Settings

Increasing the humidifier settings in colder temperatures will allow you to sleep more comfortably if you notice dryness and irritation when the weather gets cold.

Keep Track of Your Preferred Pressure Settings

Keep a list of the humidifier settings you like for each seasonal weather change so you can make those adjustments without trial and error.

Turn Up the Heat

As well as increasing your humidifier settings, turning up your thermostat can help keep you warmer and more comfortable while asleep at night. The warmth of the ambient air will also help a CPAP humidifier operate better, providing more consistent results and fewer negative side effects.

Stay Hydrated

In case of a power outage during a winter storm, it is recommended to have a backup battery that is charged and ready for use.

Maintain Your Device Properly

Change your machine filters and follow a regular cleaning routine to prevent mold and bacteria during warmer weather.

Keep Equipment Clean

Avoid the chance of further obstructing your airwways by getting sick with a cold or other illness by keeping your CPAP equipment clean. Read about a proper replacement schedule here.

Try Heated Tubing

Heated CPAP tubing will keep the air warm and more comfortable as it travels from a CPAP machine to a mask.

Traveling with CPAP to Different Climates

When traveling, you may encounter different temperatures and environments than what you are typically used to. Before arriving at your travel destination, prepare accordingly for the weather you are about to be in.

Learn More About Traveling With CPAP Therapy

Best Travel CPAP Machines of 2026

Transcend Micro Auto Travel CPAP Machine

Best Portable CPAP Machines Under $1,000

How Do Winter Months Affect CPAP Therapy?

Dry Air

  • Dry air irritates the passageways, including the nose, mouth, and throat
  • The change in air may make it uncomfortable to use your CPAP machine because of the lack of moisture, potentially reducing CPAP compliance.

Nasal Congestion

  • Dry air in the winter may cause nasal congestion, making it harder to breathe through the nose.
  • You may need to adjust your humidifier settings or switch to a full face mask.

Higher Humidifier Settings

  • To combat discomfort during colder months, making adjustments to your humidifier settings may be necessary.
  • A CPAP humidifier will add more moisture to therapy air, making treatment more effective and comfortable.

Power Outages

  • Some winter storms can cause the power to go out, interrupting CPAP treatment.
  • Make sure you always have a charged-up CPAP battery or travel CPAP machine on hand in case of a power outage.

All Seasonal Changes with CPAP Therapy

Winter

  • Air is dryer and colder in the winter months, which increases dryness and irritation in the throat, nose, and mouth.
  • Adjusting the humidification of your CPAP machine can add more moisture to therapy air, combatting dryness and providing more comfortable therapy.

Summer

  • Air in the summer is more hot and humid, increasing condensation.
  • Condensation can cause water droplets to accumulate in the tubing and cause rainout
  • Lowering your humidifier settings will reduce condensation and rainout for more comfortable treatment.
  • Learn more about CPAP therapy in the summer here.

Spring & Fall

  • The temperature in the spring and fall changes often, which results in multiple dew point levels. If you notice your therapy is too dry or too wet, adjust your settings accordingly. 

CPAP Therapy Checklist for Winter Weather

CPAP Battery

NiteOwl Portable CPAP Battery

$349.00

Shop now

Portable Outlet X9 Battery and Car Charger

$389.00

Shop now

Zopec Explore Mini Battery System

$349.00

Shop now

Freedom CPAP Battery160 Backup Power Supply

$349.99

Shop now

Extension Cords and Power Strips

Resmed AirCurve 11 9-Pin DC Cord

$58.80

Shop now

Resmed 24V Output Cable

$79.99

Shop now

Freedom V² AC Power Cord

$79.99

Shop now

React Health Luna Travel Cord

$54.00

Shop now

Power Adapters

Resmed AirCurve 11 9-Pin DC Cord

$58.80

Shop now

Resmed 24V Output Cable

$79.99

Shop now

Freedom V² AC Power Cord

$79.99

Shop now

React Health Luna Travel Cord

$54.00

Shop now

Spare Replacement Supplies

AirSense/AirCurve 11 Essential Parts Bundle

$94.40

Shop now

AirSense/AirCurve 10 Essential Parts Bundle

$71.99

Shop now

F20 HumidX for AirMini Travel CPAP Machine

$44.00

Shop now

Resmed AirMini HumidX (6 pack)

$62.00

Shop now

Follow The CPAP Shop’s YouTube Page

Like Us on YouTube!
11,770 +

Subscribers

190 +

Videos

5.3 Million

Views

Still Have Questions?

Our team at The CPAP Shop would be happy to help you!

866-414-9700

www.thecpapshop.com

Learn more

CPAP Guide Library

CPAP Masks

CPAP Cleaners & Sanitizers

CPAP Machine

Beginners’ Guide to Therapy

Glossary of CPAP Terms

CPAP Winter Preparedness G...

Guide to Financing CPAP Equip...

Guide to CPAP Supplies