Safety and recalls
CPAP Power Outage Plan: Batteries, Generators and Safety
Make a plan before an outage: tell your electric company and fire department you use a medical device that needs power, keep a charged battery or DC option that works with your machine, never run a generator indoors, and check your settings after power returns. Do not use a machine or cord that got wet.
Before an outage
The FDA advises notifying your electric company and fire department that you have a medical device that needs power. Many utilities have medical needs programs; ask yours.
Read your user manual or ask your supplier or manufacturer whether your device can run on batteries or a generator. Keep a copy of your prescription and settings with your emergency kit.
Battery options
The most efficient option is the manufacturer's DC cable or DC to DC converter connected to a deep cycle battery or a CPAP battery; ResMed strongly recommends converters over inverters. Turn off the humidifier and heated tube on battery, since humidification uses a great deal of power.
Test your battery for a full night before you need it, and recharge it after every test.
Generators
If you use a generator, the FDA warns never to run a generator or any gasoline powered engine inside a basement, garage or other enclosed space, or near open doors and windows, because of carbon monoxide.
Make sure your carbon monoxide alarm has working batteries.
When power returns
The FDA notes that medical devices often reset to a default mode when power is interrupted. Check that your settings look normal. If anything looks different from usual, contact your supplier rather than adjusting clinical settings yourself.
Check for water before plugging anything in. If cords, batteries or the machine got wet, do not use them; the FDA says to contact your distributor or manufacturer for a replacement or backup.
If you have no power at all
Sleeping without CPAP for a night is not usually an emergency for most people, but you may feel very tired. Avoid alcohol and sedatives, and sleep on your side if possible.
If you use bilevel with a backup rate, ASV or a ventilator, or have other serious conditions, have a plan with your clinician in advance, since these patients may be at higher risk.
Supplies that can help
A battery pack that runs a CPAP machine without mains power, for camping, power outages or long flights.
A cord or converter that runs a CPAP from a 12 V or 24 V DC source, such as a car outlet, RV or deep cycle …
A heat and moisture exchanger (HME) that captures warmth and moisture from your breath and returns it on the next breath, used mostly with travel CPAPs …
Retailer links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no cost to you.
Frequently asked questions
How long will a CPAP battery last in a power outage?
It depends on battery capacity, pressure and whether the humidifier is on. ResMed's battery guide sizes batteries for an 8 hour night; turning humidity off extends runtime a lot.
Can I run my CPAP on a generator?
Check your manual first. Run the generator outdoors, far from doors and windows, because of carbon monoxide risk.
Will my CPAP settings change after a power outage?
The FDA notes devices can reset to defaults when power is interrupted. Check your settings and contact your supplier if anything looks wrong.
Is it dangerous to skip CPAP for one night?
For most people with obstructive sleep apnea, one night without it is not an emergency, but symptoms return. People on more complex devices should have a backup plan with their clinician.
Sources
Last reviewed October 11, 2026. How we research · Report an error