Figuring out how, when, and where to complete a CPAP repair are some very common issues that we run in to here at CPAPmyway. Not to mention the question of, “Is my CPAP even worth repairing?”. In this blog we are going to detail troubleshooting common CPAP issues, average CPAP repair Costs, where to get your CPAP repaired and how long CPAP repairs take. Let’s dive in.
Is my CPAP Really Broken?
That is a great question and is probably the most important. Believe it or not we are able to troubleshoot a vast majority of CPAP Issues. If you aren’t hearing an alarm or seeing an error message, then it is best to run through a few things first. Below are some quick trouble-shooting techniques to check out before you decide to proceed with the CPAP repair process.
Hearing a popping or crackling noise in your CPAP?
This is one of the issues that we hear the most. In 90% of the cases this is due to water in the CPAP tubing. The water may be so minimal that you don’t even see it. So, take the time to dry the CPAP tube out thoroughly before you write this off. The best way to dry out the tubing is to remove it entirely and drape it over a door for a few hours. You can also empty the water chamber in your CPAP and run it dry for an hour or so to help (this is as long as you do not have features on the CPAP to shut down on disconnect).
Feeling like there isn’t as much pressure as there was before on your CPAP?
This is also a very common concern for CPAP users, and it almost always boils down to one issue… the filter. If you are not changing out your disposable CPAP filter monthly or washing your reusable CPAP filter monthly, then you need to start immediately. If your CPAP motor cannot pull enough air, then it can’t push enough air. Take a look at the filter. It can also be related to a worn blower motor or board issue.
My CPAP motor sounds like it is groaning or making a funny noise
Once again this is almost always due to a lack of maintenance on the CPAP Machine. Usually due to a clogged filter that hasn’t been changed or washed. Please check the filter first. If that isn’t the issue, then there may be more going on and might require a CPAP repair.
My CPAP machine is making a hissing noise or is leaking air
Leaking air noises are almost always fixable in the home. We recommend starting at the mask seal and working your way back all the way to the machine. Carefully disconnect and reconnect each segment starting with the CPAP Mask Cushion to the frame, then to the CPAP tube connection to the mask, then the CPAP Tube connection to the CPAP Machine, then finally the humidifier chamber and connection. Chances are one of these junctions have come loose. It may also be due to a bad mask seal. Replacing the mask seal is always a good bet in this scenario. a $25 fix is way better than 2 weeks without your CPAP only to hear that, “nothing is wrong with your CPAP”. Additionally, make sure to pay extra attention to the water chamber and humidifier area. There are usually a few seals there that can tear or become defective. Those seals are usually replaceable for minimal cost.
How to get a Free CPAP Checkup:
We would be happy to check out your CPAP for free. We will verify that your CPAP is running at the correct setting pressure on a manometer here. We will also verify that all the parts are operating effectively. In many cases a simple part like power supply or water chamber might make all the difference. We will evaluate the CPAP and contact you with our findings. We will send the CPAP back to you at no charge regardless of the outcome of the function test. If you want to send your CPAP in for a Free Evaluation, simply click here to download your return form. Then pack your CPAP carefully and place the completed form inside with the CPAP. Send the package to our office and we will handle the rest.
What do CPAP Repairs Cost?
CPAP Repair can range in cost dramatically. Especially between repair facilities. Luckily there are some options that provide pretty steady pricing levels that we can give you here. The price levels will completely depend on what is actually wrong with the CPAP Machine and what needs to be repaired. Below we have the 4 different “typical” repair cost levels.
Cosmetic or surface level CPAP Repair
These issues are typically due to cracks on the CPAP somewhere or a bad seal on the CPAP somewhere. The typical cost of this type of CPAP repair is about $130, and is pretty quick to turn around.
One major component repair on the CPAP
There are two major components on the CPAP machine. The Blower/Motor and the Circuit Board. If one of these components is in need of repair on your CPAP, then you are looking at around $275-$375 for repair of that part.
Both major components need to be repaired on your CPAP
If you are on a Bipap, Bipap St, or Bipap ASV then repair costs are a bit higher as well. We see most of these repair costs around the $475 mark as well. In this case the cost of replacement is pretty high, so it is definitely worth looking into the repair.
How to get a CPAP repair estimate?
It is actually pretty easy to get an estimate to repair your CPAP Machine. In many cases it is actually free to get a CPAP repair estimate including free shipping to the CPAP repair facility. To make things easy on you we have partnered with a great CPAP repair company. They are a contracted repair facility for almost all major manufactures. That means that if your unit is still under warranty then they can bill the CPAP repair cost to the Manufacturer instead of you. Additionally, this gives you peace of mind that there are no corners being cut on your CPAP repair. To arrange a CPAP repair estimate use one of the following methods to contact them.
Phone- (888) 551-5267. Be sure to let them know that CPAPmyway sent you for your CPAP repair estimate.
CPAP repair time can range significantly at times but is usually pretty steady. On average we see about a 1 week turnaround on the CPAP. Keep in mind that this does not include shipping times. So overall it will be about 2 weeks give or take that you need to plan on being without the CPAP. Of course there are things that can slow down the repair. The things that can slow down repair time on the CPAP are:
Your response time- If you don’t respond then nothing can happen. Be sure to watch out for your repair estimate and respond in a timely manner.
Backorder issues- There are times where the manufacturers get behind. When this happens it can take quite some time to get the parts to repair you CPAP Machine. It can range in weeks to even a month or longer in these cases.
Backups at the CPAP repair facility- There are also times when the repair facility is just behind. This usually doesn’t add on any more than a week or so to the timeline for repair.
Is your CPAP worth repairing?
CPAP repair is only something that should be done when you have considered all the options. Since the shipping to the repair facility and the CPAP repair estimate is free it is worth considering for sure. This is something that only you can answer and there are a few things to take into consideration.
Cost of CPAP repair- If it is going to cost you about as much to repair the CPAP as it would to just buy a new CPAP, then it is probably not worth repairing. Unless you want to get the CPAP repaired so that you have a backup for that new one. Click here to checkout prices on a new CPAP Machine for comparison.
Age of the Broken CPAP- If you CPAP machine is over 5 years old, then it is probably not worth repairing. Generally, CPAP machines will last 5 years, but at that point you will be asking for more issues in the not to distant future. So it is usually better to replace the CPAP machine. Additionally, parts pieces, and download functionalities are discontinued as they phase out older models.
Tech features- Your old CPAP probably does not have the latest and greatest features available to the newest CPAP. Most of the time the newer CPAP machines have great app for tracking your Sleep Results and are much smaller. So, an upgrade may add a lot more value to be considered.
How to get a new CPAP Machine
Buying a new CPAP instead of repairing the old one might be your best bet. In those cases we have some great CPAP options (click here) as well as a really easyCPAP Prescription renewal service (click here) to help as well. You can simply add your new CPAP Machine and the Prescription renewal service to your cart and checkout online. We will get your updated Prescription done and your new CPAP machine shipped in 1 business day. If you have a current CPAP prescription or want your doctor to send one over that is great as well. Simply email your CPAP prescription to cs@cpapmyway.com or have it faxed to 888-603-7379. Then proceed with your new CPAP machine purchase.
