CPAP Power Supplies

Yes, provided you have a compatible CPAP battery pack charged and ready. CPAP battery packs are lithium-ion or lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) units that connect to your machine via a DC power cable, bypassing the need for mains electricity.

Most dedicated CPAP batteries will power a standard APAP or CPAP machine for one to two full nights on a single charge, depending on the machine model, prescribed pressure and whether the humidifier is in use. Running the humidifier significantly increases power consumption and reduces battery runtime.

For patients who are dependent on CPAP therapy and live in areas with unreliable power supply, keeping a charged backup battery is strongly recommended.

Battery runtime depends on three key factors: battery capacity (measured in Wh), machine power consumption, and whether the humidifier is used.

As a general guide, a 98–100Wh battery will power a CPAP machine set at a moderate pressure of around 8–10 cmH₂O for approximately one full night (7–8 hours) without humidification. With the humidifier running at a mid setting, runtime typically reduces to 5–6 hours.

Higher-capacity batteries (150Wh+) can extend runtime to two nights or more. Some patients carry two batteries for extended trips.

Travel CPAP machines such as the ResMed AirMini are significantly more power-efficient than full-size machines and will achieve considerably longer runtimes from the same battery. Check the product listing for specific runtime data for your machine model.

Not all batteries are compatible with all CPAP machines. The key requirements are:

Correct DC output voltage: most CPAP machines require a 12V or 24V DC input. Check your machine's power supply label for the required voltage. Using the wrong voltage can damage the machine.

Correct connector type: CPAP machines use various DC input connectors. Some manufacturers use proprietary connectors, so ensure the battery or cable you purchase is specified for your machine model.

Sufficient capacity: the battery must have enough capacity (Wh) to power your machine for the required duration.

Dedicated CPAP batteries such as the ResMed Power Station II, Medistrom Pilot and Portable Power Station units are designed for CPAP use and come with the correct cables and connectors for specific machine models. Generic power banks are not recommended as they rarely provide stable DC output at the voltage required.

Yes. Most CPAP machines can be powered directly from a 12V vehicle socket (cigarette lighter socket) using a DC cable specific to your machine model. This is the simplest and most economical method for use in cars, campervans and motorhomes.

Some machines require a 24V input, which is common in trucks and larger vehicles. A 12V-to-24V DC converter or a dedicated 24V cable may be required in these cases.

Important considerations for vehicle use include:

Engine running vs parked: running a CPAP machine from a vehicle battery with the engine off overnight will drain the battery, potentially leaving you unable to start the vehicle. A leisure battery or dedicated CPAP battery is recommended for overnight use when parked.

Humidifier use: most manufacturers recommend disabling the humidifier when running from DC power to conserve the vehicle battery and reduce current draw.

Yes. Solar charging is a practical option for off-grid CPAP therapy during camping, expeditions or remote living. A solar panel combined with a compatible charge controller and CPAP battery pack creates a fully self-contained power system.

A 50–100W solar panel in good sunlight conditions can typically recharge a 100Wh CPAP battery in 2–4 hours. Charging time will be longer on overcast days or in high-latitude locations with shorter daylight hours.

Key considerations for solar CPAP charging include selecting a solar-compatible battery with the correct input port, using a suitable charge controller to prevent overcharging, and ensuring the panel output voltage matches the battery's input requirements.

If you are planning extended off-grid use, contact our team and we can advise on a complete solar charging setup compatible with your specific machine and battery.

Lithium battery regulations for air travel are set by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and implemented by individual airlines. The key rules are:

Under 100Wh: permitted in carry-on luggage without airline approval. Not permitted in checked baggage.

100Wh to 160Wh: permitted in carry-on luggage with airline approval. A maximum of two spare batteries per passenger is typically allowed.

Over 160Wh: not permitted on passenger aircraft in any form.

Most dedicated CPAP batteries are rated between 97Wh and 154Wh and fall within the approved carry-on range. Always declare your battery to the airline in advance and carry documentation confirming the Wh rating. Airlines may refuse batteries without clear capacity labelling.

Check with your specific airline before travel as policies can vary.

We strongly recommend using a genuine manufacturer power supply or a compatible replacement specifically rated for your machine model. The power supply must match the output voltage and current (amps) specified on your machine's power input label.

Using an undersized power supply can cause the machine to cut out during therapy. Using an oversized or incorrect voltage supply risks damaging the machine's internal components and may void any remaining warranty.

When replacing a power supply, note the output specifications printed on the original unit — typically in the format of volts (V) and amps (A) or watts (W) — and match these exactly. If you are unsure which replacement is correct for your machine, contact our team with the machine model number and we will identify the correct unit.

Most modern CPAP machines are supplied with a universal auto-switching power supply rated 100–240V AC, 50–60Hz. This means the machine will operate correctly on any mains voltage found worldwide — from 110V supplies in North America to 240V supplies in the UK, Europe, Australia and Asia.

You will need only a plug adapter to fit the local socket type — not a voltage converter. Check your power supply label to confirm it states 100–240V before travelling.

If your power supply is rated for a single voltage only (less common on modern devices), a voltage converter will be required when travelling to countries with a different mains standard. Contact our team if you need advice on your specific machine.

Yes. CPAP power supplies, backup batteries, DC cables and associated accessories are eligible for VAT Relief under Group 12 of Schedule 8 of the Value Added Tax Act 1994, when purchased by an individual with a qualifying chronic illness or disability for personal use in connection with their CPAP therapy.

Tick the VAT Relief declaration at checkout to apply the 20% reduction. The declaration must be truthful. Making a false declaration is a criminal offence under UK law.