What to Do With Old CPAP Machines

Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy is considered an effective long-term treatment option for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), but you can’t use the same machine indefinitely. Most CPAP devices require a checkup every five years to make sure they still function properly Trusted Source Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine (JCSM) JCSM is the official, peer-reviewed journal of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. View Source , and many insurers offer replacements during this timeframe. 

While CPAP machines may last decades, they may need replacement in as little as three years. After getting a new device, many people wonder what to do with old CPAP machines. You can’t discard them with your household garbage, but you have several options for handling an unused unit.

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When to Replace a CPAP Machine

Most insurance companies cover CPAP machine replacements every five years. The average CPAP lifespan is about 12 years, but sometimes these devices stop working earlier. 

Some possible signs of early CPAP failure include:

• The machine produces unusual noises, especially while you inhale
• You’re snoring more frequently
• Your daytime sleepiness worsens or doesn’t improve

If you notice any of these signs, let your healthcare provider know. They can assess your device to determine whether it’s still functioning or you need a new one. Even if your CPAP machine works well after five years, you may choose to accept a replacement to take advantage of new technology or opt for a quieter model.

Option 1: Donate Your Old CPAP Machine

Even though many insurers, including Medicare and Medicaid, cover CPAP machines and supplies, out-of-pocket costs can still prevent people from accessing this vital therapy . By donating your old CPAP machine, you can provide this treatment option for those who can’t afford a new device 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 donate your gently used CPAP machine to organizations like these:

• Advocates for World Health
• American Sleep Apnea Association
• Breathe California
• HERO: Healthcare Equipment Recycling Organization
• Project MEND
• Project C.U.R.E.
• The Reggie White Sleep Disorders Research & Education Foundation
• REquipment
• SecondWind CPAP

Before your old CPAP gets redistributed, a medical equipment company sanitizes it and repairs minor problems. If you need help finding an organization that will accept and refurbish your old equipment, you can also ask your provider for recommendations.

Option 2: Recycle Your CPAP Machine

Recycling is another environmentally friendly option for disposing of an old CPAP machine. These devices hold valuable material resources, and recycling them helps decrease air and water pollution that occurs during the production of these materials Trusted Source Environmental Protection Agency View Source . 

Many local governments accept CPAP machines for recycling and provide specific instructions on how to do it. You can find local recycling directions by typing “recycle CPAP in [your city” into an internet search engine. Look for local government pages with recycling information. If your area doesn’t offer recycling for CPAP machines, your provider can direct you to the nearest recycling center.

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Option 3: Sell or Trade in a CPAP Machine

Some companies allow you to sell or trade in durable medical equipment like CPAP and BiPAP machines. However, according to federal laws, these devices can only be sold to someone with a prescription from a licensed medical provider.

For example, you can’t sell your old CPAP on eBay . If you want to sell your machine after you’ve obtained a new device, you can reach out to an online or local medical equipment provider to ask if they purchase used CPAP machines.

Option 4: Repurpose or Keep as a Backup

If you have enough storage space, consider keeping your old CPAP as a backup. This way, you won’t have to go a night without sleep apnea support if your new CPAP machine needs service, breaks down, or gets recalled. 

Once you get your new CPAP device, you can ask your provider about using your old one now and then if needed. They can advise on whether it’s safe to use.

Option 5: Dispose of a CPAP Machine Properly

Although it may feel tempting to toss your old CPAP into the garbage, most states don’t allow it. For example, in New York City, it’s illegal to throw away electronic waste with your trash or recycling. 

If you’re not sure how to dispose of your CPAP machine properly, you can call the device manufacturer for guidance. Donating or recycling may be the easiest path to discarding your unwanted CPAP machine.

When Not to Donate or Reuse

CPAP machines can be used by multiple people as long as they are in working order. Many donation companies accept old CPAPs from people who don’t need them anymore for various reasons, like changing CPAP type or no longer needing treatment Trusted Source Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine (JCSM) JCSM is the official, peer-reviewed journal of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. View Source . 

Many donation centers will only accept gently used, functioning CPAP machines and won’t take recalled devices. In the case of broken or recalled devices, you can contact the manufacturer for instructions on how to return the machine to them for disposal.

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