[CPAP] What is the most silent CPAP machine?

[SevereSnoring]

Hi Folks,

I recently started using my CPAP first machine, which is a Fisher and Paykel SleepStyle. I immediately noticed that the machine was making a high pitched tone/noise which changes in frequency as I breathe in and out, which I find very irritating. I called my service provider, and they agreed to send me another machine under warranty. I plug in the replacement machine, and it makes the same noise as the first machine.. except it's even louder.

I figured the noise is expected by design. Now I'm having to play ambient sound / white noise from a speaker to be able to block out the noise from the machine and get to sleep.

I was just curious, do all CPAP machines make such noises? What is everyone's experience so far with other machines?


Cheers.

[Nightynite]

Resmed Airsense 10 has been quite for me. ( 3 yrs) But some people also report whining noise on the inhale. They seem to need the blowers replaced when the noise shows up. But it’s the machine of choice.

[StevesSp]

I have had three machines: two Resmed and one Devilbiss. Both Resmeds (S9 and A10) are very quiet and do not disturb me in any way but the Devilbiss was noisy in the way you describe. One source of noise can be improper installation of the water tank. Unless they are fully inserted and/or the lid shut tight, extra noise can be generated. Likewise, a poor seal between machine and hose can do the same.

Note that full-face masks can be a little noisy, too. It's down to the design of the vent. I use the Resmed Quattro Mirage FX because I find it has the best seal, but I have to position my head carefully so that the venting air doesn't hit my pillow and make noise. I tried other masks which were quieter but didn't seal so well.

[RNeil]

My Resmed Airsense 10 Autoset is quiet. Before that, I had a F&P Icon+, which was also quiet.

[Big Guy]

I have a ResMed AirSense 10 AutoSet. It is literally quiet. The only noise I might experience is some from my full face mask(s). 

I have both an AirFit F20 and an Air Fit F30. I stopped my CPAP Therapy well over a month ago now. Since doing so, both face masks are as quiet as quiet can be. 

[SevereSnoring]

Thanks for the replies.

I will look into creating a noise cancelling box for my machine (ensuring the air filter isn't blocked).. and will see if that helps. Failing that, I may have to try the air sense 10 as that seems to be the more popular model.

[Coffee Man]

SevereSnoring,

I have an AirSense 10 which is quiet but I wear Mack’s foam earplugs as even the mild noise from the machine bothers me. I don’t hear a thing when I use the foam earplugs.

[SevereSnoring]

SevereSnoring,

I have an AirSense 10 which is quiet but I wear Mack’s foam earplugs as even the mild noise from the machine bothers me. I don’t hear a thing when I use the foam earplugs.

hmm good call, I might have to try that. Can you sleep on your sides while wearing earplugs?

[YipeekiOH]

I use an AS10 and it is extremely quiet. I also use earplugs as my snoring husband would keep me awake otherwise. Yes, he has OSA and flat-out refuses to do anything about it. Sigh…

[nativedancer]

I have a replacement Resmed aircurve10, which has developed the same problem as the first machine --an audible, very annoying fan noise when I breathe in. This design is virtually silent when new, but developed the identical fan noise in both my machines after about 8 months. I trust Resmed, and love this product, but feel there may be a flaw somewhere in the manufacturing process. I'm currently using my ancient, but faithful S9, which has always performed beautifully, and I only hope it continues until i can secure the 3rd aircurve.