CPAP Rental vs Buying: Which Makes Sense for You?

Quick answer: Renting a CPAP makes sense if you are new to therapy, your insurance covers it, or you are not sure which machine you want. Buying makes sense if you have a high deductible, plan to keep the device for years, or want a travel backup. Compare the total cost of ownership, not the first payment.

How CPAP rental usually works

Many insurers use a capped rental: you pay monthly for a set period, often 10 to 13 months, and then you own the machine. During the rental, the supplier may replace defective equipment and provide supplies. Some plans rent indefinitely and never transfer ownership.

Medicare's capped rental period for CPAP is about 13 months. After that, Medicare continues to pay for supplies, but the machine belongs to you. Commercial plans vary. Ask three questions: How long is the rental, when do I own it, and what happens if I stop using it?

When renting is the better deal

• You are new to CPAP. The first months involve mask changes and pressure adjustments. A rental lets the supplier swap equipment.
• Your insurance covers most of it. If your share is low, renting preserves cash.
• You are unsure about the device. You may later need BiPAP or ASV; renting avoids buying the wrong machine.
• You want service included. Repairs and replacements may be simpler through a rental supplier.

When buying is the better deal

• You have a high deductible. You may pay the full allowed amount either way, and buying can be cheaper.
• You plan to keep it. A machine can last five years or more with care.
• You want a backup or travel device. A second machine is useful if one fails.
• You value simplicity. No monthly bills, no rental paperwork.

The costs people forget

The machine is not the only expense. Masks, cushions, filters, tubing, humidifier chambers, and replacement parts add up. A rental may include some supplies; a purchase may not. Ask what is in the package.

Also consider electricity, distilled water, and travel batteries. These are small individually but real over a year.

Insurance and compliance

If you rent through insurance, the plan may require you to use the machine for a minimum number of hours. If you do not meet the threshold, the supplier may stop billing and the machine may be returned. That is a coverage rule, not a judgment about your effort. If you are struggling, ask for help before the compliance window closes.

Buying outright avoids that particular issue, but it does not make untreated apnea safe. The goal is effective therapy, not just equipment ownership.

A simple comparison

Factor	Rent	Buy
Upfront cost	Lower	Higher
Total cost	Depends on insurance	Often lower long term
Flexibility	Easier to change devices	Yours to keep
Service	Usually included	Check warranty

For the Medicare supply rules, read Medicare CPAP supplies. To find a supplier, see CPAP supplies near you.

Questions for the supplier

1. Is this a capped rental or an indefinite rental?
2. When do I own the machine?
3. What supplies are included?
4. What happens if the machine breaks?
5. Can I switch to a different model?
6. What is my total cost over 13 months?

A rent-to-own example

Suppose a supplier charges $100 per month for 13 months and then transfers ownership. The total is $1,300 before insurance. If your plan pays 80% after a $500 deductible, your share depends on when the deductible is met and how the claim is processed. Ask for the total patient cost over the rental period, not just the monthly copay.

If you buy outright for $800 and your plan reimburses 60% after the deductible, the math may favor buying. The only way to know is to ask for both estimates in writing.

At the end of the rental

Confirm in writing that ownership transfers and that no final balloon payment is due. Ask whether the humidifier and carrying case are included. If you move or change insurers during the rental, call the supplier before the next shipment.

Buying a used machine

A used CPAP can be cheaper, but it may have thousands of hours on the motor and no warranty. Ask for the total run hours, a photo of the label, and the reason for selling. Avoid machines with visible water damage or a missing humidifier. You still need a prescription and a clinician to set the pressure.

Check the return policy

If you buy, ask whether you can return the machine within a trial period and what condition it must be in. A restocking fee may apply. Get the policy in writing before you pay.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it better to rent or buy a CPAP machine?

Renting is often easier when you are new to therapy or insurance covers most of the cost. Buying can be cheaper long term, especially with a high deductible. Compare total cost, service, and ownership terms.

How long does Medicare rent a CPAP?

Medicare uses a capped rental period of about 13 months before you own the machine. Supplies continue to be covered separately if therapy remains medically necessary.

What happens if I stop using a rented CPAP?

The supplier may stop billing and ask for the machine back. Insurance may also stop paying. Talk to your clinician and supplier before you stop; there may be a better mask or setting.

Can I buy a CPAP without insurance?

Yes, with a valid prescription. Buying outright can be cheaper than renting if you have a high deductible, but check the warranty and return policy.

Does renting include supplies?

Sometimes. Ask what is included and what you will pay separately. Masks, filters, and tubing may be billed on their own schedule.

Can I switch machines during a rental?

Often yes, especially if the device is not working for you. Ask the supplier about exchange policies and any fees.

This article is general information, not medical advice. Symptoms, testing, and treatment decisions depend on your own history, so talk with a clinician who can evaluate you.

Related reading

• Medicare CPAP supplies and replacement
• CPAP supplies near you