A CPAP machine is a great resource for people who suffered from sleep apnea, but the cost of buying a new sleep apnea machine can be higher than what some people can afford.
If you find yourself turning to used CPAP machines, you’re likely to save some money, but it’s important to consider a few things first.
CPAP machines deliver continuous air into a person’s lungs while sleeping so that the airways stay open. This means that used CPAP machines could be coated with bacteria, and not just in the mask. When you get a machine, giving it a wipe-down usually won’t be enough to clean all the components.
This isn’t a reason not to buy a used machine. It’s just a reason to use a little extra caution. Most reputable businesses that sell used CPAP machines will thoroughly clean and disinfect them, but it never hurts to ask.
You should also make sure your used machine comes with new viral and bacterial filters for both the outtake and intake ports, since these filters will protect the inside of your machine from nurturing germs. If the filter you get is old or damaged, it’s much more likely that germs got into the machine, or will get into a machine.
Generally, buying a used machine is a great way to save money and there’s no reason to avoid doing so. You just have to be a little more careful if that’s the path you choose to take. Spend some extra time researching the reseller, and maybe send them an email or two about their cleaning policies.
As long as you use the proper amount of caution and make sure a machine is cleaned and has new filters, you should have no problem picking up a discounted machine to help you with your sleep apnea.