CPAP Battery & Power Options

CPAP Battery & Power Guide

Does my CPAP machine run on 12V or 24V?

It depends on the machine. Most ResMed machines — including the AirSense 10 and AirSense 11 — run on 24V DC. The ResMed AirMini runs on 12V. Philips DreamStation machines are also 24V. BMC machines vary by model, and Lowenstein Prisma machines typically require a specific DC adapter. Running a machine at the wrong voltage can damage it, so confirming before purchase is essential. The machine tile filters above will narrow the range to products confirmed compatible with your specific model, and our battery guides provide detailed voltage information for each supported machine.

What's the difference between a CPAP battery and a DC converter?

A CPAP battery — like the Medistrom Pilot-24 Lite or Pilot FLEX — is a self-contained portable power unit that stores charge and powers your machine independently of any external power source. It's the right choice for camping, remote travel, or power outage preparedness. A DC converter, on the other hand, doesn't store power — it adapts 12V DC from an existing source (a car, caravan, boat, or campsite power outlet) to the voltage your CPAP machine needs. If you already have a reliable 12V DC power source available, a DC converter is typically a more compact and affordable solution. If you need completely off-grid capability, a battery is the appropriate choice.

How long will a CPAP battery last for one night?

For powerbank-style batteries like the Medistrom Pilot range, you will need to turn off humidification and heated tubing to reliably get through a full night. Humidification draws close to ten times the power of a CPAP machine running without it — with humidification active, most batteries will not last a full night's sleep. With humidification and heating off, a Medistrom Pilot-24 Lite will typically deliver one to two full nights depending on your pressure setting and machine model. This is an important consideration before purchasing: if you rely on humidification for comfort, a battery setup may take some adjustment. For tips on configuring your machine for off-grid use, see our guide on travelling with your CPAP.