Although using a CPAP machine is meant to improve sleep quality, some people find that the machine’s noise prevents them from getting a good night’s rest. A number of low-noise CPAP machines are now on the market in 2022, including the industry-leading AirSense 10 AutoSet Card-to-Cloud from ResMed.
In what ways may the volume of a CPAP machine be gauged from an online store? Noise levels are measured in decibels by CPAP makers. The problem with using decibel ratings to compare daily sounds is that everyone has a somewhat different perception of volume.
In this piece, we’ll enumerate the quietest CPAP machines now available, including auto-adjusting models, fixed-pressure options, and portable models ideal for travel. We will also discuss ways to lessen the volume of your CPAP machine and the total amount of noise to which you will be subjected.
Generally, the AirSense 10 AutoSet Card-to-Cloud is the quietest CPAP machine on the market, with an operating volume of only 26 dB. Popular features like AutoRamp, SmartStart/Stop, and Expiratory Pressure Relief make therapy sessions more pleasant on this ultra-quiet machine.
Below, we’ll delve deeper into the Airsense 10 and other quiet CPAP machines, but first, let’s compare the volume of CPAP machines to some more commonplace sounds.
How Loud Should a CPAP Machine Be?
The noise level of each CPAP machine is measured in decibels (dB) and provided by the maker. The average decibel level produced by a CPAP machine is around 30dB, which is barely audible over background noise. Click here to read about The Risks of Driving with Sleep Apnea.
While it may not seem like much of a difference between a machine running at 26 decibels and one running at 32 decibels, keep in mind that for every 10 decibels of increase in loudness, the sound intensity doubles. Sound at 30 decibels (dB) is roughly half as loud as at 40 dB and twice as loud as at 20 dB.
The same holds true for the varying pitches at which CPAP machines function, as one person’s intolerable noise level may be completely inaudible to another.
A common complaint from consumers who upgrade to a new machine is that it is much noisier than their previous setup, even if they aren’t actually using paper. Even if two CPAP machines may have the same decibel rating, the sound they make will be noticeably different because of their unique sonic qualities.
A good example of this are the HDM Z2 Auto and the Luna G3 CPAP machines.
Although the Z2 Auto has a lower decibel rating (26 vs. 30 for the Luna G3), its higher-pitched motor may make it seem louder to some. While the HDM Z2 is noisier on paper, some may find the Luna G3 to be more tolerable because of its lower-pitched hum and the fact that there is “more machine” between you and the motor. Visit https://www.cisa.gov/uscert/ics/advisories/ICSMA-17-227-01 to read more about Luna G3 CPAP machines.
Background noise is normal and doesn’t always have to be distracting; in fact, white noise devices are extremely common since they help people tune out unwanted sounds. Your new CPAP machine has the potential to become the most effective white noise machine you’ve ever used. Only you know how easily distracted you are by noise, so factor that into your new machine’s design.
Which CPAP Machines Produce the Least Noise?
The following list compiles the currently available, quietest CPAP machines that provide therapy at 30 dB or below, regardless of whether you need a machine for travel, regular home use, fixed pressure, or auto-adjusting.
- AirSense 10 AutoSet Card-to-Cloud
- Z2 Auto Travel CPAP Machine
- AirSense 11 AutoSet CPAP Machine
- AirMini AutoSet Travel CPAP Machine
- Luna G3 CPAP Machine
How to Make your CPAP Machine Less Noisy
Using a CPAP machine regularly should help you get used to the noise it makes. In order to wake up, our brains need to be exposed to stimuli that are louder than their ‘noise threshold,’ but this threshold is different for each person. Finding a pattern that works with your CPAP machine could help your brain become used to the machine’s loudness, allowing you to sleep better. Pavlovian training suggests that just hearing your CPAP machine activate could be enough to make you tired.
However, if you still can’t get used to the noise or if your machine sounds louder than it should be, consider trying one or more of the following:
Change the CPAP Filter Regularly
Changing the filter on your CPAP machine on a regular basis will help lower the background noise and boost its efficiency. A new filter may be required if you notice that your machine is getting louder than usual. A new filter not only keeps dust and debris out of the motor and extends the life of your machine, but it also lowers the noise level so you can sleep better at night.
Place the CPAP Machine Below your ear Canals
Keeping the CPAP machine below the user’s ear level is a common method for reducing noise. There are nightstands available with roll-out shelves and hidden drawers, perfect for tucking away noisy machines. Another option is to find or create a simple bedside tray.
With a bedside tray, you can move the CPAP machine to a level surface that isn’t near your ears. It’s tempting to just tuck the machine under the bed, but we wouldn’t encourage it because beds are notorious dust and pet hair traps.
Use Earplugs
If you just can’t seem to adjust to the CPAP machine’s noise, a pair of breathable foam earplugs might help. Earplugs made of silicone that fit snugly and completely seal the ear canal may not be the best option for people who have pain or discomfort in their ears or sinuses.
Get a Silent Mask to Go with Your CPAP Machine
A lot of the nighttime noise you’re hearing is probably just air passing through the hose and into your mask. Even if your CPAP machine is somewhat silent, those who are often startled by noise will benefit greatly from switching to a mask that produces even less background noise.
If you feel like there is a lot of air noise coming from your mask or tubing, you may want to consider upgrading to a different design. The quietest CPAP masks include diffusion vents and frequently feature a more minimalistic design.
Put your machine on a cushioned surface to lessen vibrations and noise
A louder machine can be the result of changes in your breathing pattern or pressure settings. Putting the machine on a towel or foam pad can lessen the vibrations, which in turn lessens the noise it makes. The CPAPology Silicone Protector Mat is an excellent option for a number of reasons, including its capacity to collect humidifier water and make its way to a sink for disposal, and its ability to shield your furniture from scratches.
Use a CPAP Muffler to Muffle the Hose Sound
The Q-Lite Inline CPAP Muffler Kit functions similarly to a car’s muffler in that it reduces the volume of air rushing through the hose and into your mask. The result is a tube that is even quieter than you’re probably used to, thanks to this measure to decrease noise transmission. People who are very sensitive to noise can benefit greatly from using this product.