Best Quiet CPAP Machines

Modern continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines are much quieter than their predecessors. Still, considering it sits on your bedside table all night, you’ll want to make sure your CPAP machine is as quiet as possible so it doesn’t interfere with you or your partner’s sleep.

We’ll take a look at the quietest CPAP machines available today and share some noise reduction tips to help you create the quietest possible CPAP setup.

How Loud Is a CPAP Machine?

Modern CPAP machines emit around 30 decibels of sound, which is considered whisper-quiet Trusted Source National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders View Source . 

Decibels are logarithmic, which means that a sound that’s 40 decibels sounds about twice as loud as a sound that’s 30 decibels. In terms of CPAP machines, this means even slight differences between models may make a difference. If noise is important to you, you can usually find information on a machine’s sound output in its online user guide before buying.

The World Health Organization considers that a bedroom environment with no more than 30 decibels is conducive to good sleep. Being exposed to sounds louder than 30 decibels can disrupt sleep, and sounds louder than 40 decibels may have adverse health consequences Trusted Source Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine (JCSM) JCSM is the official, peer-reviewed journal of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. View Source Trusted Source Environmental Health Perspectives Environmental Health Perspectives aims to publish high-quality research, reviews, commentaries, and news articles that substantially advance the understanding of environmental health. View Source . In fact, some experts recommend the use of CPAP therapy to protect against snoring-related hearing loss Trusted Source Nature and Science of Sleep View Source .

People with untreated sleep apnea often snore loudly at a noise level of 40 decibels or higher Trusted Source Merck Manual|MSD Manuals View Source . Whereas snoring is uneven and unpredictable, CPAP therapy makes a fairly steady hum that’s less likely to wake your partner. The CPAP machine may even function as “white noise” to help block out outside sounds from traffic or other sources.

How to Make a CPAP Machine Quieter

As a general rule, the noise from a CPAP machine should sound like a low, steady hum coupled with the naturally amplified sounds of your breathing. If your CPAP machine is noisy enough to be bothersome, it’s probably due to something not working right. 

• Eliminate leaks: Squeaking or hissing sounds can be caused by unintentional air leaks. Air leaks can occur through the mouth or in certain sleeping positions where the mask is unable to form a good seal Trusted Source National Library of Medicine, Biotech Information The National Center for Biotechnology Information advances science and health by providing access to biomedical and genomic information. View Source . You can also lose air at joints like the tubing cuffs. 
• Clean or replace filters: Dirty filters cause resistance as the pressurized air passes through, and they may increase strain on the motor. 
• Replace old parts: Tubing, masks, and other CPAP parts can become stiff or cracked with age, which may cause noisy air leaks where they fail to form a good seal. Consider subscribing to a replacement plan to ensure your accessories are always in top shape.
• Place on a vibration mat: Setting your CPAP machine on a soft towel or anti-vibration mat can help absorb some of the noise. It can also be helpful to place your CPAP machine at a height that’s lower than you, such as on a low stool.
• Check for kinks: Kinked tubing may block the passage of air. There are several options for keeping your tubing tidy, such as a tubing holder or a CPAP pillow with cutouts designed for CPAP compatibility.
• Look for loose parts: Loose internal components can produce noise if they rattle and vibrate. Be sure to tighten screws and connecting pieces, and be on the lookout for holes or deformities.
• Address Rainout: You may hear a gurgling sound if condensation accumulates in your tubing. Heated tubing or tubing covers bring the temperature inside the tubes more in line with the ambient temperature, helping you avoid this “rainout” effect.
• Fill the water chamber: Another source of a gurgling sound could be an empty humidifier water chamber. Make sure to add enough water every evening to last you through the night.
• Turn off the humidifier: The humidifier adds a couple of decibels to the overall CPAP noise level. While most experts recommend using a humidifier to avoid side effects like a dry nose and mouth, you might find relief from noise by turning the humidifier off.
• Adjust air pressure: Higher air pressure tends to be noisier, so ask your doctor if it’s possible to use a lower pressure without affecting your therapy Trusted Source Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine (JCSM) JCSM is the official, peer-reviewed journal of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. View Source . You can also use ramp settings or auto-adjusting pressure options to lower airflow when you don’t need it to be so strong Trusted Source National Library of Medicine, Biotech Information The National Center for Biotechnology Information advances science and health by providing access to biomedical and genomic information. View Source .
• Repair with provider or manufacturer: If your machine is making unusual sounds, contact the manufacturer or the equipment provider for a professional opinion Trusted Source Medline Plus MedlinePlus is an online health information resource for patients and their families and friends. View Source .
• Update to a newer model: Older CPAP models tend to be noisier, so consider updating your equipment for a quieter design. CPAP motors may also start to make noise as they age.
• Use earplugs or a white noise machine: If you or your partner are very sensitive to noise, the best course of action may be to block out noise completely using earplugs or a white noise machine.

How to Make CPAP Mask Quieter

An important component in the overall noise level of your CPAP setup is the mask. CPAP masks often produce a whooshing noise where the exhaled air is ventilated, so try looking for a design that splits up this air into smaller, quieter streams. If your mask seems noisier than before, your exhalation valve may need repairing.

Masks can also make extra noise if they have air leaks. To minimize noise from leaks, look for a mask that fits snugly and use the straps to fasten it securely to your face Trusted Source National Library of Medicine, Biotech Information The National Center for Biotechnology Information advances science and health by providing access to biomedical and genomic information. View Source .

What Else to Consider When Buying a CPAP Machine

Not all CPAP devices are built alike, and it can be confusing to compare them if you don’t know what you should be looking for when buying a CPAP machine. If you’re new to CPAP therapy or in the market for a new machine, you can narrow down your choices by focusing on some key considerations:

• Type of CPAP machine
• Pressure range
• Ability to track compliance data
• Compatibility with your mask, heated tubing, and other components
• Price and insurance coverage
• Size and portability
• Built-in vs. external humidifier
• Features like auto-ramp and personalized air pressure algorithms
• Interface/smartphone app 
• Durability and warranty coverage

Dive Deeper: In-Depth CPAP Guides

If you’re looking for a CPAP mask or other CPAP supplies, we’ve got you covered. Our team breaks down the best CPAP machines, masks, and other essential products in the guides listed below.