Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder in which patients experience pauses or shallow breathing during sleep. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is an effective device for treating this symptom. It can provide patients with stable airflow at night and keep the airway open. However, when the power is interrupted or in an environment without power, how to ensure the normal operation of the CPAP device becomes a problem. Car batteries and portable outdoor power supplies are a viable backup power option due to their portability and capacity. So, what are the differences between them?

 

How much power does a CPAP require?

 

First, we need to understand the power consumption of the CPAP machine. According to common CPAP models on the market, their power consumption is approximately between 30 and 60 watts. If the humidifier and heating tube are turned off, the power consumption can be reduced to 20 to 30 watts per hour. Some newer models with advanced features that help users track sleep patterns are even better. This means that if using a standard CPAP model, without taking into account heating, humidification, and other additional features, we can estimate its power consumption to be an average of 25 watts per hour.

 

Car Batteries and CPAP

 

How long can a car battery power a CPAP?

 

The first thing to consider is the capacity of your car's battery. Generally speaking, the capacity of lead-acid batteries used in non-electric vehicles is about 48 Ah, while the capacity of lithium batteries used in electric vehicles averages about 100 kWh. To simplify the calculations, we assume that non-EV lead-acid batteries are used.

 

Calculate power supply time

 

With the above two key pieces of information, we can calculate the time it takes for the car battery to power the CPAP. Taking a 48 Ah car battery as an example, we can use the following formula to estimate the power supply time:

 

Power supply time (hours) = battery capacity (amp hours) * battery voltage (volts) / CPAP power consumption (watts)

 

Assuming the voltage of the car battery is 12 volts, the power supply time is:

 

Power supply time = 48A hours *12V/25W = 23.04 hours

 

This means that a 48-amp  car battery can power the CPAP machine for about 23 hours under ideal conditions without taking into account any losses.

 

Factors affecting battery run time

 

Several factors determine battery run time:

 

• Using a heated humidifier will cut battery run time by about half. If you use a heated humidifier, you can use it as a cold water humidifier to save electricity. This is done by filling the water box with distilled water and turning off the power option of the humidifier.

 

• Use plastic standard hoses instead of heated hoses for optimal operating time.

 

• Taking care of it and storing it in a dry, cool place will also help extend the battery's runtime.

 

• Ambient temperature plays a role in a battery's run time. Generally, batteries are best stored and used at 70°F (21.1°C). Run time will be reduced when using the battery in warmer conditions.

 

• The altitude at which the battery is used may also affect how long it lasts.

 

• Higher pressure settings will reduce battery run time. Use the same pressure settings you normally use, and look for a battery solution that lasts long enough.

 

• Ventilators without a DC outlet require an inverter with an additional power source to convert the DC output of the battery into AC power that the device can use. Conversion efficiency is reduced.

 

A car battery is viable as a backup power source for a CPAP machine, especially during emergencies or outdoor activities. A standard non-electric vehicle battery can power a CPAP machine for about 23 hours under ideal conditions, but in actual use, it is recommended to reserve more margin to deal with various uncertainties. In order to ensure the continuous operation of the CPAP machine, it is recommended to use a specialized CPAP battery backup system, or to conduct sufficient testing and preparation before using the car battery.

 

Portable power station & CPAP

 

The role of portable power stations for CPAP

 

Portable power stations provide a flexible and reliable power solution for CPAP equipment, especially when there is no grid power supply, such as outdoor camping, traveling, or sudden power outages. These power stations are usually equipped with high-capacity lithium-ion batteries that can provide long-term power support for CPAP equipment. They are designed to be lightweight and portable, making them easy to carry and use. Simply plug the CPAP device into the power station and continue enjoying stable therapy.

 

When choosing a power solution, there are several factors to consider:

 

• CPAP device power requirements: Understand the power consumption of your CPAP device, including the consumption of any additional features.

 

• Capacity of the power source: Choose a power source with enough capacity to cover at least one night's use.

 

• Portability: Choose a power supply with moderate weight and size based on travel and mobility needs.

 

• Charging method: Consider how the power source is charged, whether via a car charger, solar panel, or other means.

 

• Budget: Choose a cost-effective power solution based on your personal budget.

 

To ensure that the CPAP device can operate throughout the night, unaffected by power interruptions, it is wise to choose a portable power station with a power slightly higher than the maximum power consumption of the CPAP machine. For example, if the power consumption of a CPAP machine is 70 watts when using all the additional features, then at least one portable power station that can provide more than 70 watts of continuous output is required.

 

Niuess Portable CPAP Power Station

Calculate the duration based on 25 watts of power:

Item	Capacity(Wh)	Output(W)	Time(H)	Weight(lb)	Size(mm)
NE-700	512	700	20	16.3	294*185*236
NE-700pro	720	700	28	17	294*185*236
NE-1200	1228	1200	49	39.7	403*223*298

 

The design of Niuess portable power supplies takes into account the power needs of users in different situations, so they are usually equipped with alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) output interfaces, as well as a variety of outlet types commonly used in the market. This multifunctional design greatly improves the practicality of the portable power supply, allowing it to adapt to the charging needs of various electronic devices, whether it is a laptop, mobile phone, CPAP machine, or other outdoor equipment. Users no longer need to carry multiple converters or worry about finding a suitable socket. One portable power supply can meet most charging needs, which undoubtedly provides great convenience to travelers and outdoor enthusiasts.

 

The AC interface allows users to connect household appliances, while the DC interface is suitable for vehicle equipment and some specific electronic equipment. In addition, modern portable power supplies may also include USB ports, further extending their compatibility and convenience. In short, the multi-interface design of the portable power supply effectively solves the limitations of a single output interface, making it a multi-purpose and highly practical power solution.

 

Conclusion

Whether you choose a car battery or a portable power station, it is important to ensure that your CPAP device will perform reliably in any situation. With proper planning and selection, you can ensure that sleep apnea patients receive consistent and effective treatment even when they are off the grid.