CPAP machines reduce apnea episodes, ease sleep apnea symptoms, and restore quality of life for people living with the condition. The downside is cost. Without insurance coverage, buying or replacing CPAP equipment can add up quickly.
Refurbished CPAP machines are often presented as a budget-friendly alternative to buying new. The reality in Canada is more nuanced than the marketing suggests. This guide covers what a refurbished CPAP actually is, when it makes sense to buy one, and how to tell a legitimate refurbished machine from a questionable used unit being sold as refurbished.
Refurbished CPAPs are still worth considering, especially if you are looking for a specific older model or a feature no longer sold new. That said, compare any refurbished unit you are considering against new pricing at CPAPSupply.ca before making a final decision. The refurbished market in Canada is much smaller than in the US, so our new units are often available at a similar cost. If you would like help weighing your options, our team of sleep experts is here to walk you through the decision.
What is a Refurbished CPAP Machine?
A refurbished CPAP machine is a previously owned unit that has been inspected, tested, and cleaned to meet a defined standard before resale. What that standard includes varies significantly among refurbishers, so not all refurbished CPAPs offer the same quality or reliability.
Refurbished units may show minor cosmetic wear, such as light scratches or button fading from previous use. They are typically priced lower than new-in-box units, though, as noted above, in the Canadian market, that price gap is often smaller than buyers expect.
What Does Refurbishment Actually Involve?
Refurbishment, sometimes called reconditioning, is the process of restoring a used product to its original operating condition. This typically involves inspection, testing, cleaning, and replacing any worn parts as needed. A quality refurbishment should mean the machine functions like new and meets all safety requirements for dependable operation, though it may not always look new.
The scope of refurbishment work varies widely. Some units are simply factory-reset after a previous owner returned them. Others receive more extensive repairs, including replacement of power supplies, chassis components, or blower motors. Because there is no single standard or regulatory body governing what refurbishment must include in Canada, verifying the history of any individual machine can be difficult.
This makes your choice of seller critical. Always buy refurbished CPAP equipment from a provider that can clearly explain their refurbishment process, which parts they inspect, what they replace, and the warranty they stand behind. If a seller cannot answer these questions confidently, consider looking elsewhere.
Should You Buy a Refurbished CPAP Machine?
The honest answer depends on your budget, the specific model you are considering, and the seller you are buying from. If you can afford a new machine, the argument for buying new is usually stronger, especially in Canada, where the refurbished discount is modest. That said, refurbished CPAPs have genuine benefits worth weighing against the drawbacks before you decide.
Benefits of Purchasing Refurbished CPAP Machines
For most buyers, cost savings are the primary benefit of buying a refurbished CPAP machine.
A refurbished machine from a reputable seller will have passed an extensive cleaning, testing, and repair process that restores it to near-new working condition.
In the US, where manufacturer-refurbished programs are well established, vendors often sell refurbished machines for a fraction of the price of new ones, making them a popular, budget-friendly option. In Canada, the picture is different. The refurbished market here is smaller and less standardized, and in many cases, new pricing at CPAPSupply.ca is comparable to refurbished pricing, so the savings are not as significant as they appear. We recommend comparing any refurbished unit against our current new pricing before making a final decision.
Most sellers offer some form of warranty on refurbished units, and machines refurbished by the original manufacturer often come with full manufacturer support. Warranty terms vary significantly by seller, so ask specifically what is covered, for how long, and what your options are if the machine develops a problem shortly after purchase.
Refurbished equipment also offers a broader selection than new. Manufacturers typically keep only one or two models on the market at a time, while refurbished vendors often stock multiple generations of a given product. This means you may be able to find a machine with exactly the features you need, or save money on an older generation that still performs well.
Older models share accessories with newer ones in many cases, so choosing a previous generation CPAP does not automatically mean trouble finding CPAP masks, tubing, or other supplies. Generation-to-generation improvements tend to be iterative rather than revolutionary, so you likely will not give up much by choosing last year’s model.
Downsides to Purchasing Refurbished CPAP Machines
The benefits of buying refurbished depend on buying from a reputable seller with a transparent process. Protection is limited if you are buying from online marketplaces like Amazon or eBay, or worse, from classifieds like Kijiji or Facebook Marketplace.
A note from our experience helping Canadians since 2013: the prices listed for used CPAP machines on Kijiji and Facebook Marketplace are often very close to what a new machine costs from CPAPSupply.ca, once you factor in warranty, shipping, and prescription support. Before committing to a used or refurbished private sale, it is always worth comparing against our new Canadian pricing. If you have any questions, be sure to reach out to me or Crystal Mank, our Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT). We are always available to answer any questions you have.
If parts are not replaced during refurbishment because they still function, those parts may fail sooner than new components would, leading to repair costs that erase the upfront savings. Older models may also lack modern features like Wi-Fi or mobile data reporting, forcing you to transfer data manually from memory cards to report therapy progress to your doctor.
Due diligence matters more with refurbished CPAPs than with new ones. Research specific model numbers before buying, ask the seller detailed questions about their refurbishment process, and make sure you understand your return options before money changes hands.
What Warranty and Return Options Should I Look For?
Warranty coverage on a refurbished CPAP typically comes from one of two sources: the manufacturer or the third-party vendor. Each has different strengths worth understanding before you buy.
Manufacturer-refurbished units usually include warranties of 90 days to two years from the date of purchase, covering parts and labour for any defects. These warranties do not cover everyday wear items, such as masks or filters. Review the warranty terms thoroughly so you know precisely how to obtain service if an issue arises.
Third-party vendor warranties are usually shorter than manufacturer warranties and, in many cases, require you to seek service through the manufacturer before the vendor steps in. The more important factor for third-party sales is the return policy. You want at least 30 days to test the machine, and longer is always better. A device malfunction or a simple poor fit for your therapy needs should not become a costly surprise.
Other Important Considerations
Beyond specs and warranty, a few broader considerations apply to most refurbished CPAPs and can affect whether a specific unit is worth buying.
CPAP Machines are Not Invincible
CPAP machines wear out. The exact service life depends on multiple factors, including the model, usage frequency, pressure settings, maintenance habits, and whether the machine is used in a home with pets or smokers. Most units last three to five years, though well-maintained machines can last longer.
If the model you are considering is older than three or four years, factor an increased likelihood of repairs or part failure into the price you are willing to pay, and look for warranty protection that reflects the machine’s age. Without proof of regular maintenance or knowing the previous owner personally, the condition of any older unit is hard to count on.
CPAP Machine Recalls are Real
Like cars, toys, and virtually any other consumer product, CPAP machines are subject to recalls. Before you agree to purchase any refurbished CPAP machine, check for any recalls pending on the model you are considering.
The existence of a recall does not automatically mean a unit is a bad deal. Unless the recall is severe, there is a good chance the refurbishing team has already addressed any critical concerns. That said, for something as important as a CPAP machine, you want to be certain all recalls are resolved before money changes hands. Never use a machine with pending recalls, as it may pose safety and health risks.
The Philips Respironics Recall and What It Means for Refurbished Buyers
In 2021, Philips Respironics recalled millions of CPAP and BiPAP machines over concerns about the polyester-based polyurethane foam used in certain models. The recall affected popular units such as the DreamStation and the System One series.
For anyone shopping refurbished, this matters. Older Philips units sold as refurbished should have either had the foam remediated under the recall program or been removed from the refurbished market entirely. Before purchasing any refurbished Philips machine, ask the seller directly whether the unit is subject to a recall and, if so, whether remediation has been completed.
Health Canada maintains a searchable recalls database at recalls-rappels.canada.ca, where you can verify the status of any medical device sold in Canada. If a seller cannot clearly confirm remediation on a Philips refurbished unit, do not purchase.
Insurance Coverage for Refurbished CPAP Machines
While a refurbished CPAP costs less than a new one at retail, you will likely pay the full amount out of pocket. Most Canadian insurance plans and provincial programs only cover new equipment. If you are unsure of your options, check with your insurance provider or speak with your doctor or sleep specialist, as they may have tips or resources worth reviewing before you make a purchase decision.
In my experience, the price difference between a new machine at CPAPSupply.ca and a refurbished one is often smaller than Canadian buyers expect, especially once warranty, prescription support, and Canadian-based service are factored in. The refurbished market is simply less developed in Canada than it is in the US, which affects both availability and pricing.
Prescriptions and Refurbished CPAP Machines
A refurbished CPAP machine requires the same valid prescription as a new one. Even if a seller provides access to machine settings so you can adjust them yourself, they still need a valid prescription to legally sell you the device.
If you are unsure how to get a prescription, start by talking to your general practitioner or a sleep specialist. Our guide on CPAP prescriptions walks through what to expect.
Key Takeaways
- Refurbished CPAP machines can be a viable alternative to new or used CPAP machines for the right buyer.
- Some refurbished machines are refurbished by manufacturers, while others are refurbished by third-party technicians.
- Research any company selling refurbished units carefully, so you understand their definition of refurbished and the steps in their refurbishment process.
- Buying a refurbished CPAP machine can offer savings over new prices while avoiding the questionable deals of online marketplaces or classifieds.
- Refurbished CPAPs also offer a broader range of model options since you can pick from machines across multiple product generations.
- Since generation-to-generation updates are mostly iterative, an older machine often still offers the features you need at a lower price.
- Always ensure any refurbished unit you are considering comes with a warranty.
- Manufacturer-refurbished machines often feature warranties that are nearly as good as new machine warranties, though possibly shorter.
- Third-party warranties vary significantly and may not cover shipping, parts, or labour.
- Read every warranty carefully to avoid surprises if you need assistance.
- Even a well-maintained CPAP machine will eventually fail. Machines older than three or four years are likely aging and may need part replacements.
- Before buying a refurbished CPAP, check for any recalls on the model you are considering, and confirm any recall-related repairs have been completed before paying.
- You will likely pay out of pocket for a refurbished CPAP, as most insurance or assistance programs will not offer coverage.
- You still need a valid prescription to purchase a refurbished CPAP. If a seller offers purchases without a prescription, be extremely cautious.
Frequently Asked Questions About Refurbished CPAP Machines
Is a refurbished CPAP machine as good as a new one?
A properly refurbished CPAP machine from a reputable seller should function like new, having been inspected, tested, cleaned, and repaired as needed. However, quality varies widely between refurbishers, so buying from a trusted vendor matters more than with a new machine.
How much can you save by choosing a refurbished CPAP instead of a new one?
Savings typically range from 30 to 50 percent off the new retail price, depending on the model, age, and condition. Older generation machines often see the steepest discounts.
What is the difference between a refurbished and a used CPAP machine?
A refurbished CPAP has been professionally inspected, tested, cleaned, and repaired to meet a defined standard, usually with a warranty. A used CPAP is sold as-is from a previous owner with no testing, no warranty, and no quality guarantee.
Will insurance cover a refurbished CPAP machine in Canada?
Most Canadian insurance plans and provincial programs only cover new CPAP equipment. You will almost always need to pay for a refurbished machine out of pocket. Check with your provider or our CPAP insurance coverage guide for specifics.
Do I need a prescription to buy a refurbished CPAP in Canada?
Yes. A refurbished CPAP machine requires the same valid prescription as a new one. Any seller offering to sell you a machine without a prescription should be avoided.
How long does a refurbished CPAP machine last?
Most CPAP machines have a total service life of three to five years. A refurbished unit will have used some of that lifespan already, so factor the machine’s age into your purchase decision and ensure it comes with a meaningful warranty.
Additional CPAP Resources
If you’re shopping for a CPAP machine, these guides will help you choose with confidence:
- Choosing a Travel CPAP Machine, if portability is a priority
- APAP vs. BiPAP vs. CPAP, understand which type of therapy is right for you
- Understanding CPAP System Anatomy, know what you are buying before you buy
- Understanding Your CPAP Machine Readings, make sense of your therapy data
Is a Refurbished CPAP Right for You?
A refurbished CPAP machine can be a smart choice, but the best answer depends on where you are shopping. In the US, where manufacturer-refurbished programs are well established, a refurbished unit can offer meaningful savings and reliable performance when bought from a reputable seller. In Canada, the refurbished market is smaller, and in many cases, the new pricing at CPAPSupply.ca is comparable to what you would pay for refurbished, after warranty, shipping, and prescription support are factored in.
Whichever path you take, buy from a reputable seller who can clearly explain their refurbishment process, provide a warranty, and confirm there are no outstanding recalls. Take the time to ask questions, compare warranty and return terms, and verify the model’s recall status through Health Canada before making a purchase.
If you have questions about which refurbished CPAP is right for you, send me a message using the chat bubble on your screen, and Crystal or I would be happy to help you find the right fit. We have been helping Canadians with their CPAP therapy since 2013, and we are happy to answer any question, big or small.
Jeremy Mank, Founder, CPAPSupply.ca