Backup machine? What happens when it quits

I've been using my cpap machine for a few years now. I'm concerned about it quitting on me and I'll be stuck trying to sleep without it. That really scares me.

Is there a way to buy a "backup" cpap that doesn't cost an arm and a leg? I'm currently using a Philips Respironics REMstar Pro C-Flex+ with Auto IQ. It has over 12000 blower hours of use.

Should I be talking to my doctor about getting a replacement? What is the typical lifespan of a this cpap machine?

Thanks,

Bill

bllwlt wrote:Is there a way to buy a "backup" cpap that doesn't cost an arm and a leg?

Sure there is Craigslist, Amazon, etc. Spend some time searching and reading this forum, you will see all kinds of deals and ideas.

here is a good machine :

http://sfbay.craigslist.org/eby/hab/5969366676.html

bllwlt wrote:I've been using my cpap machine for a few years now. I'm concerned about it quitting on me and I'll be stuck trying to sleep without it. That really scares me.

Is there a way to buy a "backup" cpap that doesn't cost an arm and a leg? I'm currently using a Philips Respironics REMstar Pro C-Flex+ with Auto IQ. It has over 12000 blower hours of use.

Should I be talking to my doctor about getting a replacement? What is the typical lifespan of a this cpap machine?

Thanks,

Bill

There is a post on the forum here for a cpap machine for sale for $175. Looks like it might be a good backup machine: viewtopic/t115212/PR-System-one-550-Apa ... ipped.html

I have 2 backup machines (wasn't planned that way). Both came from Craigslist. You need to periodically use your backup if only to prevent that funny smell you get from electronics that aren't used for a long time.

The machines are designed to last 5 years and/or 15,000 hours. Yours could last to 20,000 hours or quit tomorrow night. There have been several members here who had their primary machine quit without warning and who were lucky enough to have a backup.

Also, before you call your doc, call your insurance company and find out what your coverage is and exactly how it's paid for. Some are rent-to-own, some bought outright, some cost too much even with the copay because DMEs charge the full retail price, not the discount that you get online. There are many members here who have ONLY bought used machines since they have no insurance coverage. So, there are several ways to go on this.

Another option is http://www.secondwindcpap.com. They sell gently used, and give a warranty.

Certainly the time to be looking is when you don't need one. Started looking for a second machine before I got my first machine through insurance. It took me six months, but I found an almost new one with an extra power pack for not much more than the co-pays of my rent to own machine. Found a guy with a whole garage full of cpap stuff.

My first thought was that you should see if your insurance will cover a new machine, and then the one you use now becomes your back-up.

My machine is about 3 years old with a tad over 6500 hours. I was wondering how long a machine would last. Insurance covered mine 100% (luckily) with the stipulation of actually using it or they'd take it away or charge me. My insurance policy has changed since first getting the machine and doubt they'd cover a new one. This is something I'll look into for sure. I never considered a backup machine until reading this post. Thank you!

I think the general rule of thumb is the insurance will only pay for one every 5 years,
But I think that may not apply when you change insurance or change your DME. You might
call your DME and see, After all your DME makes a lot of money when you get a new one
so will work hard to find a way to do this. Or as several members pointed out used units
are out there at reasonable cost. Most of us still want a good fancy machine for a backup
but used a no frill standard cpap also referred to here as a brick can often be found on craig's
list for $75 or so.