Complete Guide to Buying a Refurbished CPAP Machine โ€” By a Licensed RRT

Written by Yash, RRT โ€” Licensed Respiratory Therapist & Owner, MyRespCo

If you've been diagnosed with sleep apnea โ€” or suspect you have it โ€” the cost of a new CPAP machine can feel like another barrier between you and better sleep. A new machine runs $700 to $1,200 or more. But here's what most people don't know: a properly refurbished CPAP machine from a licensed supplier delivers identical clinical outcomes at a fraction of the price. This guide walks you through everything you need to know โ€” from safety to setup โ€” written by a Licensed Respiratory Therapist (RRT) who refurbishes and sells these machines every day.

Is a Refurbished CPAP Machine Safe?

This is the first question every patient asks โ€” and it's the right one. The short answer is yes, absolutely โ€” when purchased from a licensed DME (Durable Medical Equipment) supplier with a certified refurbishment process.

Not all refurbished CPAPs are created equal. A machine listed on a marketplace by an individual with no clinical background is a different product entirely from a unit that has been inspected, cleaned, tested, and certified by a Licensed Respiratory Therapist.

At MyRespCo, every machine goes through a documented 7-step clinical refurbishment process:

  1. Full Disassembly & Inspection โ€” Every internal component examined for wear, damage, or moisture exposure.
  2. Medical-Grade Deep Clean โ€” All reusable parts cleaned with hospital-grade disinfectant solutions.
  3. Patient-Contact Part Replacement โ€” New tubing, filters, water chamber, and worn gaskets โ€” always.
  4. Motor & Pressure Calibration โ€” Motor output tested and pressure verified against factory specifications.
  5. Full Data Wipe โ€” All prior patient data erased. Your privacy and a fresh therapy start.
  6. 48-Hour Burn-In Test โ€” Machine runs continuously to confirm consistent pressure delivery.
  7. RRT Certification Sign-Off โ€” Final review and approval by a Licensed Respiratory Therapist (RRT).

Refurbished vs. New CPAP โ€” Honest Comparison

Feature New CPAP MyRespCo Refurbished
Average Price $700โ€“$1,200 40โ€“60% less
Clinical Effectiveness Full Identical
Warranty 1โ€“2 years 1-Year Included
Data Wiped / Reset Yes Yes
RRT Review No Every Unit
New Patient-Contact Parts Yes Yes
Therapy Setup Support Rarely RRT Consultation Available ($49.99)

What to Look for Before You Buy

  • Seller is a licensed DME supplier โ€” not an individual or unlicensed reseller
  • Machine has been data wiped โ€” prior patient therapy data should not be present
  • All patient-contact parts are new โ€” tubing, filters, water chamber
  • Motor hours or usage is disclosed
  • A warranty is provided in writing
  • A clinical professional reviewed the unit โ€” not just a warehouse technician
  • Return policy is clearly stated

Which Refurbished CPAP Should You Buy?

The most popular refurbished CPAP at MyRespCo is the ResMed AirSense 10 AutoSet. It is the gold standard in refurbished therapy machines:

  • AutoSet algorithm automatically adjusts pressure breath-by-breath
  • Built-in cellular modem for remote compliance monitoring
  • Heated humidifier reduces rainout and dry throat
  • MyAir app integration for tracking your own therapy data
  • Quiet motor โ€” under 27dB

Shop the Refurbished ResMed AirSense 10 AutoSet โ†’

Do You Need a Prescription?

Yes โ€” the FDA classifies CPAP machines as Class II medical devices, and a prescription is required. MyRespCo's $49.99 RT Consultation gives you direct access to a Licensed Respiratory Therapist who can review your sleep history, walk you through your options, and guide you on appropriate therapy settings.

Book Your RT Consultation โ€” $49.99 โ†’

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to buy a refurbished CPAP machine?

Yes โ€” when purchased from a licensed DME supplier with a certified refurbishment process. At MyRespCo, every machine is inspected, cleaned, tested, and reset by a Licensed Respiratory Therapist before sale. We provide a 1-year warranty on every unit.

How much does a refurbished CPAP cost compared to new?

New CPAP machines typically range from $700โ€“$1,200. Refurbished units from MyRespCo are available 40โ€“60% less โ€” with the same clinical effectiveness and a 1-year warranty included.

Do I need a prescription for a refurbished CPAP?

A prescription is required by FDA for CPAP machines. However, MyRespCo offers a $49.99 RT Consultation with our Licensed Respiratory Therapist to help guide you through the process and discuss your therapy options.

What warranty do refurbished CPAPs from MyRespCo carry?

All MyRespCo refurbished CPAP and BiPAP machines include a 1-year warranty. If there is a mechanical issue within 12 months of purchase, we will repair or replace the unit.