Philips Respironics CPAP Machines Review
Philips Respironics is a top pick in our Buyer’s Guide for Best CPAP Machines because the company provides excellent advanced CPAP treatment options for sleep apnea. Philips Respironics CPAP devices use the latest innovations to apply the correct level of oxygen therapy and maintain a natural breathing pattern. The state-of-the-art machines log respiratory events and track therapeutic progress, so patients stay well-rested and motivated.
Philips Respironics CPAP machines effectively treat issues such as sleep apnea, which can be fatal if left untreated. The Center for Disease Control reports a correlation between a lack of sleep and chronic health problems such as diabetes and depression. Chances of getting into an accident while driving or at work also increase with sleep deprivation.
Pros
- Innovative technology and customized therapy
- Quiet, compact CPAP machines suitable for travel
- Compatible with any CPAP mask
- DreamMapper app tracks therapeutic progress
Cons
- Optional humidifier may run dry too quickly
Philips Respironics CPAP Machines
Philips Respironics has been helping people with sleep apnea rest safely and comfortably for decades and offers a line of CPAP machines, portable oxygen concentrators and other therapeutic products to suit different patient needs and preferences. The DreamStation and the DreamStation Go devices are available in CPAP (continuous pressure) and APAP (pressure automatically adjusts) models with easy-to-use controls, ambient lighting on a bright LCD screen and quiet operation at just 26 to 30 decibels.
Philips Respironics DreamStation CPAP Machine
The DreamStation is best for home CPAP use but is small enough to take along when you travel compared to some clunkier CPAP machines. Philips Respironics produces the DreamStation in Auto CPAP, CPAP, CPAP Pro and bi-PAP models.
Philips Respironics DreamStation includes the latest technology in CPAP comfort management:
- SmartRamp starts air pressure off lower to make it easier to get to sleep. Air pressure then slowly increases, or SmartRamp can be set to remedy sleep apnea with the correct pressure level only if your airway becomes obstructed.
- EZ-Start helps patients gradually adapt to the prescribed level of therapy with automatic and personalized adjustments to increase CPAP pressure over the first 30 days of use. The DreamStation CPAP Pro comes with EZ-Start technology.
- FlexComfort mirrors the user’s breathing with the right amount of pressure from moment to moment for greater comfort. You’ll find this feature in the DreamStation Auto CPAP.
Philips Respironics sells an optional heated humidifier for the DreamStation to prevent the dry nose and condensation build up you may experience with other CPAP machines. The swivel hose mounts to the top of your CPAP mask, so it’s out of your way and moves with you as you shift while sleeping.
Philips Respironics DreamStation Go CPAP
The DreamStation Go CPAP from Philips Respironics includes all the features of the DreamStation, but this model is even smaller and lighter for the frequent traveler. The DreamStation Go can run off battery power, so you can use the CPAP machine even while camping in the woods. This model also features a USB charging port, so you have more power options.
DreamStation Go’s optional heated humidifier doesn’t require distilled water and works with any potable water. The DreamStation Go automatically turns off the heater when the water level is low.
| Features | DreamStation | DreamStation Go |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Everyday use | Frequent travelers, camping |
| Dimensions L x W x H |
6.2 X 7.5 X 3.3 inches Add 5.5 inches for humidifier |
5.9 X 5.9 X 2.3 inches Add 5.8 inches for humidifier |
| Weight Add 1.5 lbs. for humidifier |
2 to 3 lbs. depends on model |
1.86 lbs. |
| Power | AC / DC | AC, battery, DC via USB charger |
| Price Varies by supplier/ model |
$529 to $1,640 | $849 to $1,000 |
Philips Respironics CPAP Machine Accessories
Philips Respironics CPAP machines come with the power supply, power cord, flexible tubing, reusable filter and owner’s manual. Optional equipment for DreamStation devices includes:
- Humidifier and heated tubing
- Carrying case
- SD card for DreamStation, microSD card for DreamStation Go
- Disposable fine filters
- Travel kit (DreamStation Go)
- Battery (DreamStation Go)
Philips Respironics DreamMapper App
The DreamMapper mobile app tracks and manages the patient’s Philips Respironics CPAP therapy. Using Bluetooth technology, the CPAP machine sends data to the app, where you set therapeutic goals and track progress. This tracking can be an excellent motivator for consistent CPAP use.
Available for both iOS and Android devices, DreamMapper also supports reminders to maintain or replace equipment and offers quick access to the Philips educational content library. Those who use both the DreamStation and DreamStation Go can use the app to sync the two to the same dashboard for complete and accurate data. DreamMapper is also available for use on a PC.
How to Buy Philips Respironics CPAP Machines
Philips Respironics does not sell CPAP machines directly to consumers, but you can buy the product from medical device suppliers. The Philips Respironics website lists online retailer partners and provides a lookup tool to find brick and mortar sellers in your area.
Philips Respironics CPAP Machines Complaints
Sleep researchers at Tuck note that 9 out of 10 Philips Respironics DreamStation customers have had a positive experience. ConsumerAffairs readers rate Philips Respironics a 3.25 out of 5 stars with some complaints noting the humidifier reservoir needs to be larger and that the noise level increased after a few months of use. The Better Business Bureau gives Philips Respironics an “A-” rating with two consumer complaints revolving around repairs and a defective water tank. Philips Respironics worked with the customer and the water tank manufacturer to find a solution. TheCPAPShop.com customers are overwhelmingly positive about Philips Respironics DreamStation CPAP machines with a 4.5 out of 5-star rating. Almost all reviews appreciate the quality of the devices and find value in the price for the features.
Philips Respironics CPAP Machines Q&A
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Do I need a prescription to buy a Philips Respironics CPAP machine?
All CPAP machines require a doctor’s prescription to ensure you get the appropriate device and therapy settings. Typically, you’ll need to go through a sleep study to determine your need for a Philips Respironics CPAP machine. -
Do Philips Respironics CPAP machines come with a warranty?
Both the Philips Respironics DreamStation and DreamStation Go come with a two-year limited manufacturer warranty. If the device stops working, the manufacturer will repair or replace it. The warranty excludes things like water damage, accidents and abuse, so be sure to review the owner’s manual for more information. -
Does insurance cover a Philips Respironics CPAP machine?
Maybe. Depending on how your insurance plan treats durable medical equipment, you may have benefits for a Philips Respironics CPAP device. If not, you can use a Flexible Spending or Health Savings Account to pay for the machine. -
Can I take a Philips Respironics CPAP machine on an airplane?
The Philips Respironics DreamStation and the DreamStation Go are both FAA approved to carry onto a plane and use in-flight. We recommend you do not pack a DreamStation CPAP in your checked luggage due to the risk of loss or damage. -
When will I start to feel better after using a Philips Respironics CPAP machine?
Typically, patients see an improvement within one week of using their Philips Respironics CPAP machine. However, some patients may take a little longer.
Conclusion
Philips Respironics produces small yet powerful CPAP machines so those suffering from sleep apnea can get the rest that’s essential to their health. The company prioritizes patient safety and comfort and offers CPAP options to meet individual requirements. DreamStation and DreamStation Go owners are primarily satisfied with their CPAP machines and enjoy better sleep both at and away from home.