According to Bob Wilkins, the CEO of SoClean, there are over 8 million CPAP users in the USA. And the number is likely to increase by 8 to 9% annually. Experiencing a power blackout amid the night is one of the worst nightmares for any CPAP user. How about if you are going camping in an area with no connection to the main grid? Whether you are worried about losing power at night or need power for your CPAP machine while on the go, you need a portable power solution. Investing in the best portable generator for CPAP is your best solution.
However, there are many brands of portable generators for Continuous positive airway pressure therapy (CPAP) machines in the market today. While many brands come with different features which influence their performance, every manufacturer claims theirs to be the best. This can make your shopping experience challenging, especially when buying it for the first time. But with the right shopping guide for the best portable generator for CPAP, your shopping experience can be seamless. This article will provide you with the necessary information to help you make a rational decision when buying a portable generator for your CPAP machine.
Table of Contents
What is a CPAP Machine?
If you are reading about CPAP machines for the first time, CPAP stands for continuous positive airway pressure. It is a machine used for treating people suffering from apnea disorders. This is a condition that interrupts your normal breathing when your airways or throat is temporarily blocked.
As a remedy, the CPAP machine ensures a continuous flow of oxygen to your mouth and nose as you’re sleeping. This steady flow of oxygen keeps your airways open, ensuring your breathing is normal.
When Do You Need a Portable Generator for Your CPAP?
A reliable portable generator for powering your CPAP machine can save your life. Here are scenarios where you will need a portable generator for a CPAP machine;
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When there is a power outage:
Power blackout can occur any time of the day or night. While the first two to five minutes of a blackout may not be alarming, it can be troubling when it lasts for hours. This is one of the instances you’ll need to invest in the best portable generator for CPAP. If you’re suffering from obstructive sleep apnea, you still need to enjoy a peaceful rest even when there’s a power outage.
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While camping:
Do you love camping or RVing but wondering about your apnea condition? You don’t have to power your CPAP device via your car’s battery; instead, get a dependable portable generator for CPAP.
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While in transit:
Sometimes, you may need to undertake a long train journey or flight. Taking a nap during such trips is sometimes inevitable, and you may not have a wall socket to plug in your CPAP machine. Carrying a portable generator for your CPAP will give you a peaceful nap.
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Our Best Portable Generator for CPAP Machines
1. Jackery Explorer 500 Portable Power Station
It is one of the best portable generator options for running a CPAP machine. It can handle CPAP machines in the range of 12V to 30V. If used to only power a CPAP machine, this generator can run one for about 40 hours. This runtime translates to about 5 nights should you decide only to use it when sleeping at night. The number of nights will depend on how many hours you will be powering your CPAP machine.
This model has both AC and DC power outlets. This feature allows you to power even two CPAP machines as long as they are within their power output range. It also features three USB ports for convenient charging of smart handheld devices such as smartphones and cameras. So when you are out there camping, you don’t have to worry about recharging your phone, tablet, or camera; utilize the USB ports. The device has a starting power capacity of 1000 watts and a running power wattage of 500W.
This portable power station produces clean and stable power for the safety of your sensitive appliances, including your CPAP machine. This generator has a 518Wh (watt-hour) lithium-ion battery size, which can run several devices in its range simultaneously.
Jackery Explorer 500 has an LCD that shows the power input and output and the battery status. With this feature, it becomes easy to monitor the status of this generator when it is running.
You can recharge the 518Wh lithium-ion battery in three different ways;
- An AC wall outlet
- A solar panel
- Through a carport (the cigarette-style port)
How long the battery will take to recharge fully will depend on your charging medium. Charging it via an AC wall socket takes the shortest time of about 7.5 hours.
Using Jackery SolarSaga 100 watts solar panel (bought separately) will require around 9.5 hours to recharge under full sunlight fully. Charging it via the carport takes the longest time of about 16 hours, for the 518Wh battery to attain full charge. The battery charging cable is included in your purchase of this portable power station.
This model weighs about 13.3 pounds. Its lightweight nature and compact design make it a must-have power solution to wherever you want to go.
Jackery Explorer 500 Portable Power Station Video Review
Pros Cons
2. Jackery Explorer 240 Portable Power Station
It’s another high-quality model from the reliable Jackery brand. This one is a less costly and less powerful model compared to Jackery Explorer 500. This generator can offer a runtime of 12 to 20 hours on a single charge if you are only powering a CPAP machine. The number of nights this generator can run your CPAP device depends on how many hours you’ll be sleeping and the size of your CPAP.
Jackery Explorer 240 has AC and DC outlets, including dual USB ports to charge your phone and tablet conveniently. The AC outlet delivers a clean sine wave for running sensitive electrical appliances. You can power multiple devices simultaneously but take caution; this will lower the runtime. For example, if you have a 10-watt rated CPAP, be ready to wake up after 6 hours to turn it on again. The generator automatically turns off after 8 hours if you plug in a device rated for 10 watts and below.
Its lightweight and compact design make it suitable for providing power whenever you need it. It weighs 6.6 pounds. The built-in handle at the top makes its carriage effortless. For user-friendliness, this model comes with an LCD that shows the input and output power as well as the remaining battery life. With this display, you can conveniently plan on what to power before your next recharge.
This generator has a Lithium-ion battery size of 240 watt-hour that offers you a peak wattage of 400W and 200 running watts. You can recharge this battery using three different methods;
- By using an AC wall socket that will take about 3.5 hours to attain a charge of 80% from 0
- Recharging by a car outlet which attains 80% charge from 0 within 5 hours
- Recharge by use of Jackery SolarSaga 60W (bought separately). It will take about 5.5 hours to achieve 80% charge from 0% charge.
The actual recharging time on this generator may vary depending on the weather, location, temperature, and other factors. However, the number of hours stated for recharging using 60W Jackery SolarSaga is in good sunlight condition.
Pros Cons
3.PRYMAX Portable Power Solution
This is another excellent model of a portable generator for powering your CPAP machine. According to the manufacturer, this power source can power your CPAP machine for up to 4 nights. However, most users have only been able to run for about 24 hours, translating to 3 nights of 8 hours each. Even so, the runtime largely depends on the number of hours your CPAP will be operating. For example, running a humidifier alongside the CPAP machine using this generator will give you 2 nights of operations.
The generator has a starting power of 600W and running wattage of 300W. You can plug in multiple appliances on this generator thanks to its;
- Dual AC and DC outlets
- Three USB ports, one being the type C port
The Type C USB port offers quick charging for tablets, phones, and cameras. Moreover, this generator has a short circuit and surge protection feature to enhance its safety when powering sensitive appliances.
PRYMAX has a 298 watt-hour battery capacity that comes with a battery management system that promises you safe powering of your devices. The system prevents overcharging and overheating. You can recharge this power equipment through;
- An AC wall socket
- A solar panel
- Carport
Besides powering your appliances, this generator has a powerful LED in-built light. You can use it to illuminate your tent when camping or your home in case of a power blackout.
This best portable generator for CPAP is conveniently portable. It has an average weight of 5 pounds and also comes with a convenient easy-carry handle. Its compact size offers you an easy time to pack it in a backpack whenever you travel or plan for a camping trip.
You can quickly monitor the status of this power source by checking the LCD display. It displays the power output on the AC and DC outlet, power inlet (when recharging it), and the remaining battery life.
Pros Cons
4. ROCKPALS 300-watt Portable Power Station
It is a perfect power solution for your selected electronics at home or when in an outdoor activity. Besides powering your CPAP machine, you can also power other appliances, including TV and lights, with less than 300 running watts. You can also use it to power some small appliances in a campervan. With about 7 pounds weight and a built-in convenience handle, you can carry it during your camping trips. And power your CPAP machine at night.
This model delivers a surge wattage of 600W and 300 rated watts of clean power when utilizing the AC outlet. If your interest is to power solely power your CPAP machine when sleeping, this power source will serve you for three nights.
You can power different appliances using this generator, thanks to its many power outlet options. They include AC and DC power outlets, regular USB ports, and a single quick charging USB port.
This generator will auto-shutdown when you plug in devices that draw less than;
- 1W on the AC outlet
- 1.68W on the DC outlet
- 0.25W on the USB ports
An additional feature of this model is the presence of a built-in flashlight. This feature comes in handy at night, especially when camping or during a power blackout at home. And to make it more interesting, its LED light has two options; an immobile white light and an SOS mode light for emergencies.
ROCKPALS boasts of a 280Wh long-lasting battery capacity that can comfortably power most CPAP machines. You can recharge this battery through;
- Through a car charger
- A regular AC wall outlet
- A solar panel that has between 60 to 100W that you’ll buy separately. But the solar charger comes with the generator once you purchase the generator.
This battery supports pass-through charging. You can charge your appliances such as phones and cameras while this unit is charging.
Pros Cons
5.FlashFish EA150 Portable Generator
It is a small and compatible portable solar generator that you can rely on for powering your CPAP machine. Its portability makes it ideal for carrying while traveling or camping, thanks to its 4.5 pounds weight. Even so, you can still use it at home to run your CPAP machine when there’s a power blackout.
This model can deliver 200 starting watts and a running wattage of 150W. It may not be adequate power for running different household electronics. Still, it can be a lifesaver to a CPAP user. With this power source, you can choose to run your CPAP machine from the AC or DC outlet. However, when using the DC outlet for your CPAP machine, you should run it along with a DC converter. The power output is clean sine wave which means it can run sensitive electronics without damaging them.
On the power outlets, you will find;
- Dual 110V AC outlets
- Double 12V DC outlets
- Single USB port (normal one)
- Two quick-charge USB ports
You will be limited to power devices with a maximum of 150 watts on the AC outlet, while the DC outlet limits you to 120 watts. FlashFish EA150 goes into an automatic protection mode when it detects an overload. So to enjoy its continuous power supply, ensure you don’t overload it.
The generator has a 160Wh battery capacity, and it offers you the convenience to recharge it in three different ways;
- A wall socket (AC output)
- A carport (12 Volts car socket)
- A solar panel
When recharging it using an 18V 50 watts solar panel, it will attain a 100% charge within 7 to 9 hours. Unlike other models, you cannot power your appliances while you are charging this generator. You don’t have to incur an extra cost for buying the charging cables; this generator comes with a car charger, cigarette lighter adaptor, and power adapter. However, you have to buy the solar panel separately.
A smart LCD display shows the generator’s battery level, input charging power, AC and DC power output.
Pros Cons
6. SereneLife Portable Generator
If you’re looking for a trustworthy portable generator for CPAP, SereneLife is undoubtedly one of the best brands in the market.
This generator can comfortably power your CPAP machine and run other devices concurrently. It features a single AC outlet, three DC outlets, and three USB ports. Its clean and stable power output makes it suitable for powering sensitive electronics such as laptops, phones, and tablets.
Its portability features include a lightweight, compact design and convenient built-in handle that allow you to power devices while on the go. So you don’t have to worry about powering your CPAP machine while planning for a camping trip, undertaking a long journey, or during a blackout at home.
The generator comes with a 42000 mAh battery capacity for meeting your CPAP machine power needs. In addition, it supports pass-through charging, which means you can charge your portable devices such as phones and cameras while it’s recharging. This feature allows you to remain with a fully recharged portable generator for use during emergencies.
SereneLife portable generator supports AC wall socket as well as solar panel and carport plugging charging options. Apart from separately buying the solar panel for recharging the generator, other charging accessories, including a car charger and power adaptor, are included in the package.
The model has short-circuiting and overheats protection thanks to the battery management System feature. So you don’t have to worry about the safety of your appliances when powering them using this generator.
The presence of LED indicators and a flashlight makes it user-friendly. You can easily monitor the status of this generator by checking the LED lights. While the LED flashlight comes in handy at night when power is out or for outdoor nightlife.
Pros Cons
7. Paxcess 330-watt Portable Power Station
It has a unique feature that allows wireless charging.
This generator produces a peak wattage of 700W and 330 rated watts of clean and stable power. For the safety of your devices, this model features an intelligent battery management system that safeguards them from power surges. You can either power your CPAP machine via the 110V AC outlet or the 12V DC outlet. However, to utilize the 12 volts DC outlet with your CPAP machine, you must connect a DC to a DC power converter.
If you only need this generator to power your CPAP machine, it can run for three nights. Otherwise, running it while powering other devices like phone charging will reduce the number of hours or nights it can serve you.
This model has eight outlets for powering your appliances, they include;
- Double 12V 5A DC ports
- Single 12V 10A DC port
- Three quick charge USB ports
- Single type C port
- An upgraded 110V AC outlet
To enjoy the wireless charging feature, your devices need to be Qi-enabled. There is an in-built 5-watt wireless charger positioned at the top of this generator.
Paxcess 330-watt portable generator has a 288.6Wh battery capacity. Like any other best portable generator for a CPAP machine, you can recharge this generator using a wall socket, carport, or solar panel. The solar panel is not part of the package. The recharge time to full capacity depends on your recharging media;
- A 100-watt solar panel (compatible with this generator) will recharge it in 5 to 8 hours, relying on the intensity of the sun. You are guaranteed efficiency charging by the in-built MPPT Solar Charge Controller.
- A wall socket will recharge it for about 5 to 6 hours.
- A car charger takes 7 to 8 hours to recharge the generator’s battery fully.
You can check the remaining battery life, recharging input, AC and DC output through the LCD display. An additional feature of an LED light that has both SOS and flashlight mode.
Pros Cons
A Guide for Buying the Best Portable Generator for CPAP
Power capacity:
The power capacity of the portable generator you intend to buy should be able to run your CPAP machine. Check the power requirements of your CPAP machine and choose a generator that has an extra output. If you intend to use the generator for powering other home appliances, consider their power requirements and factor them too.
Check the battery capacity:
Portable generators for running CPAP machines come with Lithium-ion batteries. The battery capacity will determine how long this generator can power your CPAP machine. The battery capacity is given in Wh (watt-hour). For instance, 400Wh battery capacity can power a 50W CPAP machine for 8 hours. If you live in areas with rampant power failures or intending to go camping for several days, choose a generator with a higher battery capacity.
Sound level:
Some portable generators for running CPAP machines are noisy than others. When shopping for a portable generator for powering your CPAP machine during power outages, go for one with minimal noise output. Otherwise, the noise output may bother you when sleeping.
Features of the generator:
The features of a generator determine how user-friendly the generator is. A portable generator with an LCD display offers easy monitoring of its remaining battery life, input, and output power. Several power outlets comprising AC, DC, and USB ports make the unit a multipurpose one. Check out for additional features such as LED flashlight and SOS mode too.
A Review Guide Video On The Best Portable Generator For Cpap
Why You Should Consider Solar Powered Portable Generator for CPAP
They are eco-friendly
With the increasing global warming concern, governments worldwide are encouraging the use of solar energy. Solar-powered generators for CPAP machines don’t need diesel, propane, or gasoline to run or charge their battery. These generators don’t have emissions and do not degrade the environment in any way. You only have to place the solar out in the sun and connect it to your generator, and it will begin charging. How long it will take to charge entirely depend on the sun intensity and the battery capacity. In most cases, the duration lies between 6 to 12 hours.
Reasonable energy efficiency rate
You can lower your electricity and fuel costs by using natural sunlight to run solar-powered generators. Furthermore, you can run this generator for the longest time you want without worrying about the cost of running it. It will, however, depend on how much charge the battery can carry.
Convenient energy source
If you love camping, you don’t have to use your car battery or find electricity hook-ups to power your CPAP. A solar-powered generator comes in handy to meet your small power needs, including charging your phone, tablet and running your CPAP machine.
Even when there is no power at home, you can still use a solar-powered generator to run your devices, including a CPAP machine. In addition, some of the solar-powered generators allow you to charge your appliances as you are recharging the generator.
They are portable:
You can move almost everywhere with a solar-powered generator. These generators are small in design and lightweight, making it easy to pack them even in your camping or traveling bags. And did you know that you can recharge them while hiking or traveling? Yes, some solar-powered generators offer you such conveniences.
While solar-powered generators are good, they also come with some drawbacks, and they include;
- Delayed charging time: Charging these generators with solar takes longer than charging them directly with an AC wall socket or through the carport. The delay is more when the weather is cloudy. Thus, if you entirely rely on solar charging on a cloudy day, your CPAP machine may only run for few hours.
- Comes with an extra cost: While solar-powered generators bring convenience and lower your reliance on using fossil fuels, you have to buy a solar panel. However, if you will not use the solar recharging option, you will not incur the cost. Instead, you can recharge your generator through AC wall sockets and carport. The recharging accessories are included in your purchasing package.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size of a generator do I need to power my CPAP machiner?
There are different types of CPAP machines in the market with varying energy requirements. The differences in energy requirements are because of the additional features that come with these machines. On average, most CPAP machines do not require over 400 watts. To identify the exact size of a generator ideal for your CPAP pump, multiply the amps the device requires by 110 volts. The product is the wattage your machine needs to run. However, it’s not advisable to run a generator at its maximum power output. Therefore, the right size of a generator ideal for your CPAP machine should be more than what the machine requires.
Can I run my CPAP machine off a car battery?
Yes, a car battery can run a CPAP machine for over 20 hours, depending on amperage ratings on the machine. However, your car battery will need a recharge; otherwise, it will not start your car again. But if you are only using it for a single night of about 5 to 8 hours, the battery will be able to start your vehicle the following day.
Final Word
A CPAP machine is a must-have for anyone suffering from chronic apnea. This machine works on power, and you can conveniently plug it into your wall socket. However, a power failure can occur anytime, which can bring problems to any CPAP machine user. Fortunately, there are portable generators that can power CPAP machines. Rockpals 300-watt and SereneLife portable generators are reliable and yet budget-friendly portable generators for CPAP machines. Jackery Explorer 500 is an alternative, but it’s slightly expensive. Check your CPAP machine energy requirement and choose either of the above options to power your CPAP machine.
