Sources: Ready.gov power outages; HHS emPOWER; manufacturer documents in our linked guides. Checked 13 October 2026. This isn’t medical advice; make your plan with your clinician and supplier.
Before an outage
| Step | Why (source) |
|---|---|
| Talk to your clinician and supplier about an outage plan | Ready.gov advises it for electric medical devices |
| Plan batteries and alternatives | Ready.gov |
| Ask your oxygen supplier about backup | Suppliers handle equipment and contents; see Medicare oxygen coverage |
| Install carbon monoxide detectors | Ready.gov (generator safety) |
| Know a community location with power | Ready.gov, for extreme heat or cold |
Who counts as electricity-dependent
HHS emPOWER’s electricity-dependent DME list includes oxygen concentrators and BiPAP machines (among other devices). CPAP isn’t on it, but if you rely on CPAP nightly, plan as if it were.
Backup options
| Option | Notes |
|---|---|
| POC batteries | Runtimes vary by setting; see Inogen Rove 6, FreeStyle Comfort and Independence reviews |
| CPAP batteries and power stations | Humidifier and heated tubing use more power; see CPAP battery options |
| Generator | Outdoors only, at least 20 ft from windows (Ready.gov) |
| Leave for a community location | In extreme heat or cold (Ready.gov) |
Heat and cold during an outage
Device operating ranges are typically 41–95°F for CPAP and 41–104°F for portable concentrators; see our Phoenix heat and Salt Lake City guides.
Verdict
Write the plan down: who to call, how long your batteries last at your setting, where your backup oxygen is, and where you’ll go if it’s too hot or cold. Never run a generator indoors.
Related: home oxygen fire safety, flying with a CPAP.