Buying a used CPAP machine: an 8-point checklist

Before you buy: what must be clear?

Which type of device and which settings you need is decided by your doctor or sleep lab. A dealer can test devices and advise you, but does not replace a medical decision. Keep the details from your prescription to hand (device type, e.g. CPAP or auto-CPAP, and the pressure values set by your doctor).

The checklist

• 1. Exact model. The model name is on the rating plate on the underside – e.g. “AirSense 10 AutoSet”, “AirSense 10 Elite” or “AirSense 10 AutoSet for Her”. The variants differ in their functions.
• 2. Operating hours. Serious offers state the device's operating hours. On the ResMed AirSense 10 you can read them in the Sleep Report – explained in AirSense 10: how to read the operating hours.
• 3. Condition of the blower. The blower (motor) is the most important wear part. The AirSense 10 shows a motor replacement notice after approx. 23,000 motor operating hours. If the motor has been replaced, the offer should say so; the device's hour counter keeps running.
• 4. Technical inspection. Ask what exactly was checked. At least: function test, pressure and flow measurement with instruments, check of running noise and vibration, and function of the humidifier heater plate.
• 5. Cleaning and hygiene. A used device should be cleaned outside and in all accessible air paths. For parts in direct contact with breathing air – mask, tubing, water tub – ask whether they are new or cleaned. The air filter should always be new.
• 6. What is included. Is there a humidifier with water tub? A power supply? A bag? Missing parts quickly add costs – see accessories & masks.
• 7. Invoice and warranty. Buying from a dealer gives you an invoice with VAT shown and the statutory warranty applies. A voluntary guarantee is an extra – read the terms on each product page.
• 8. Instruction and set-up. Therapy settings are made by your doctor, sleep lab or provider. Clarify before buying who will set up the device for you.

Private seller or dealer?

Private sales often lack information about testing, cleaning and operating hours, and warranty is often excluded. With a dealer you can ask about the scope of testing and you receive an invoice.

How we prepare used devices

Every used device at Desstronic is technically tested (pressure and flow measurement, noise and vibration check) and reprocessed component by component: air path with alcohol and UV light, hard-to-reach air channels with steam pressure, blower motor dust-free and without cigarette odour using our own process, housing painted and polished. Our tested ResMed devices are in the CPAP category, each with operating hours and contents. Questions? Contact us.

Frequently asked questions

We do not replace medical advice. Only change therapy pressure and settings as prescribed by your doctor.