May 9th 2022

Your Guide to Buying CPAP Supplies Online

Your time is valuable, so when you shop online you want to be prepared so it can be a quick and easy process. GoCPAP.com provides a simple-to-navigate website that makes your shopping experience effortless. Additionally, you can feel confident you're ordering the correct item every time by having your prescription handy to access.

Continue reading for an extensive guide on buying CPAP supplies online.

Know Your Prescription to Know What You Need

It is vital to understand your prescription because not all sleep therapy is the same. While many additional features extend past the basics, your prescription is where you need to begin.

What to Know:

1. What's your diagnosis? Sleep apnea patients may require different sleep therapy treatments than other patients.
2. What type of machine do you need? CPAP or BiPAP?
3. What pressure setting will you need? Some devices are better for high pressures than others.
4. Will you need humidification? Only certain machines offer a humidifier.
5. What type of mask system do you need? Full face, nasal, or nasal pillow mask?

Know What You Want to Narrow Down Your Search

Every sleep apnea treatment is different, so make sure you know your needs before you begin your search to buy CPAP supplies online. When you shop online, there is an endless world of options, series, designs, and more to select from. To help you be more efficient when buying CPAP supplies online, narrow your search to the specific features you want.

Know What Manufacturers Your Insurance Covers

If you intend to buy your CPAP machine or mask with your insurance company, it's important to know what items manufacturers will cover before you begin shopping online. You’ll be able to make your purchases with your HSA/FSA cards with no problem as we are HSA/FSA approved.

While we cannot submit insurance payments for you, we do have helpful information that walks you through how you can do this. Learn how to do this here.

Guide on Buying Necessary CPAP Supplies

Different Types of CPAP Masks

CPAP masks come in full-face or nasal styles.

• Full face masks: Seal both the mouth and nose and are necessary for mouth breathers.
• Nasal masks: Cover the nose from the bridge to the upper lip area. Ideal for patients who need higher pressure settings.
• Nasal pillows masks: Compact and lightweight option that allows minimal contact with the face. The nasal pillows rest at the nostril entrances and create a seal that directs the pressurized air directly into the nose.

When choosing your CPAP mask, consider the following:

• Are you looking for a non-intrusive mask for ease in nighttime activities like reading or watching TV?
• Are you looking for a mask with minimal touchpoints to eliminate red spots?
• Is flexibility in sleeping positions a priority for you?
• Are you a mouth breather or do you have a beard?

Learn how to choose the best CPAP mask for you here.

CPAP Machine Tubing/Hoses

When buying CPAP tubing, there are three main factors to take into account:

1. Length
2. Hose diameter
3. Diameter of the connecting ends

Tubing: CPAP tubing is typically 6 feet long, but you can also purchase a 4-, 8-, or 10-foot option.

A longer length may be necessary if your machine is further from your bed. If you select a longer tube length, be aware that the temperature and moisture of the air will decrease the further distance it has to travel from machine to mask.

Heated tubing is an option to negate this effect if you are particularly affected by cold/dry air. If you choose to use heated tubing, make sure you purchase the heated tubing that pairs with your machine as heated tubing is specific to make and model.

Hose Diameter: Tubing diameter typically comes in two options — standard 19mm or slim 15mm.

If you choose a slim diameter, your CPAP settings will need to be adjusted. Before deciding on slim tubing, ensure that your machine can change tubing settings. You chose your tubing settings when you first set up your machine, so if you have already set up your machine, you will need to go into settings to adjust this.

Diameter of the Connecting Ends: CPAP machines have a universal connecting end diameter which is 22mm.

Machine Filters

Machine filters are an essential part of your CPAP therapy as they ensure your machine runs smoothly by eliminating bacteria and allergens. Your filter will create pure, clean air for your nighttime routine. Replacing your filter is essential so that it can consistently catch disruptive particles.

3 Types of Filters:

• Disposable – These filters are extra thin and paper-like. They are the most convenient option for cleaning your machine because you throw them away. You should change them at minimum every 2 to 4 weeks or at the first sign of discoloration.
• Reusable – Made of foam, reusable filters are convenient because you won't need to remember to repurchase them with the risk of running out. These filters are ideal for users who experience a lot of allergies but they require more maintenance as you will need to wash them monthly.
• Hypo-Allergenic – The ResMed AirSense 10 and AirSense 11 line carries a hypo-allergenic filter that is ideal for CPAP users who are extra sensitive to allergens such as dust and pollen.

Water Chambers/Tanks

Water chambers are the part of your humidifier that holds the water. Humidification helps moisten and warm the air you breathe, preventing dry mouth and nose. This aids in making your CPAP experience more comfortable.

To prevent mineral buildup, use distilled water in your humidifier. Although, it is okay to use tap water occasionally, such as when traveling. Read our article about types of water to use and to avoid with your CPAP machine here.

Replace Your Water Chamber: You should replace your water chamber every six months. However, cracks or discoloration may signal that you need to replace it sooner.

Cleaning Your Water Chamber:

1. Every morning, empty any remaining water from the water chamber.
2. Let the water chamber dry out during the day.

Additional Valuable Supplies

Cases: Investing in a CPAP case is good if you travel a lot. The case will protect your machine while being able to keep all your supplies in the same location.

Power Solutions: Having a backup power solution for your CPAP machine is essential in case of power outages or camping trips – fortunately, there are many affordable options. Most common are battery packs — 12v or 24v — but adaptors are also an option when a power source is available.

Cleaning Supplies: Cleaning your CPAP equipment is essential to effective sleep apnea therapy. Types of CPAP cleaning supplies can be categorized by two technologies — the ozone/activated oxygen-based technology and the UV-C light technology. Read more about cleaning supplies:

• Lumin CPAP Cleaner Reviews: Features and Benefits
• SoClean CPAP Cleaner Reviews and Features
• What is the Best CPAP Cleaner?
• Best CPAP Mask Cleaners

Your Guide on Buying CPAP Supplies Online at GoCPAP.com

Now that you have a guide on buying CPAP supplies online, you will be able to find the specific supplies that meet your every need and want.

Explore numerous manufacturers, machines, masks, supplies, and more here.

Shop here for your equipment needs.

Visit our deals page for current specials.