For people who suffer from sleep apnoea, getting away for a few nights can be a daunting task. It can mean not only needing to transport your CPAP machine but being limited to locations that have power to run it. If you want the freedom to head off-grid for days without compromising a good night’s sleep, you’ll need a dual battery system to run your CPAP machine.
REDARC have two solutions for powering CPAP machines on the road, portable and fixed. Each have their pros and cons, let’s run through both systems.
The power consumption of CPAP machines can vary a lot between models. For each of these systems examples we’ll be basing them on a machine that draws up to 60 watts. This translates to 5.5A of continuous power draw so for 8 hours of sleep your CPAP machine will consume around 44Ah of power.
FIXED DUAL BATTERY SYSTEM
If you’re looking for a permanent system, we recommend a fixed secondary battery and DC to DC charger dual battery setup.
With a DC-DC charger like REDARC’s BCDC, the secondary battery can be charged from the vehicle’s alternator as you drive. It’s a great system for those that travel frequently. With a Smart Battery Monitor connected, you’ll also be able to keep track of exactly how much power you have at all times.
Pairing a BCDC with a REDLAB Icon 100Ah lithium battery and a 350W or 400W inverter, it’s the perfect fit to power a 60W CPAP machine.
PORTABLE POWER
If you’d like a more portable solution, REDARC’s GoBlock is the perfect solution, powerful enough to keep a CPAP machine going while camping. To run a CPAP machine from a GoBlock, you’ll also need an inverter. We recommend REDARC’s GoBlock Inverter Kit for a complete solution.
The GoBlock is also able to be monitored on your phone using Bluetooth® and the RedVision app.
ADD SOME SOLAR
While the GoBlock can be charged by AC mains power and DC power from your vehicle, if you’re at camp and don’t feel like driving around, solar is the perfect solution. Simply plug in a solar panel or blanket and let the sun keep you powered.
Similarly, with a traditional fixed dual battery system, solar is an easy way to keep your secondary battery charged. Solar panels keep your battery topped up during the daylight hours and ensure you can keep your CPAP machine running overnight. For a 100Ah battery, a 120W panel will often do the trick.
So whether you’re planning a quick weekend away, or heading off the beaten track, a dual battery system or portable power solution will ensure you can go further, whilst maintain a good night’s sleep!
