How CPAP Machines Work: Sleep Doctor's Guide

Three-minute guide

How a CPAP machine keeps the airway open

A CPAP machine draws room air through a filter and delivers it through tubing and a fitted mask. The prescribed air pressure acts as a pneumatic splint that helps prevent the airway from collapsing during sleep.

The basic setup

The device filters and pressurises room air.
Tubing carries the airflow to the mask.
A properly fitted mask delivers therapy while minimising leaks.
Humidification may improve comfort for dryness or congestion.

Compare CPAP machines

Video source: Sleep Doctor. Educational information only; device selection and settings should follow clinical advice.

What is a sleep apnea machine?

“Sleep apnea machine” is a common shopping term for positive airway pressure equipment. A prescribed CPAP, Auto CPAP or bilevel system uses a machine, breathing tube and fitted mask. It is different from an oxygen concentrator: CPAP uses pressurised room air to help keep the airway open. Oxygen equipment should not be substituted for prescribed CPAP treatment.

Understand what you are comparing

CPAP supplies continuous pressure. Auto CPAP can adjust pressure within a clinician-prescribed range. Bilevel equipment delivers different pressures during inhalation and exhalation. Your clinician should select the therapy category, model capabilities and treatment settings. Symptoms or an online buying guide alone cannot establish which equipment you need.

Choose a complete system for home or travel

For a bedside setup, compare the machine, compatible mask, breathing tubing, humidification components and power supply together. A travel CPAP system may use its own mask connectors and humidification supplies. Confirm those details before choosing accessories by appearance or price.

Our AirSense 10 AutoSet package is AED 3,450, the AirSense 11 complete set is AED 3,900, and the AirMini travel package is AED 3,950. These packages include one compatible mask. Prices were checked on 30 October 2026; confirm the live listing, selected mask and current availability before checkout.

Five questions before ordering

Is a sleep apnea machine the same as an oxygen machine?: No. These are different equipment categories with different functions. Follow the equipment and therapy prescribed by your clinician.
Should I choose CPAP, Auto CPAP or BiPAP?: Use your clinician's recommendation and prescribed mode. Our CPAP and BiPAP comparison helps you identify product categories to discuss.
Is a mask included?: The three machine packages linked above include one compatible mask. Check the individual listing for available mask models, sizes and supplied components.
Will every tube or filter fit?: No. Match replacement supplies to the exact machine generation and connection system. Check the product listing or ask our team before opening a replacement.
How can I check delivery and warranty?: Read our delivery information and warranty terms, then confirm your selected package with White Aspects.

Browse CPAP machines and UAE prices, compare mask designs, or ask us on WhatsApp about package contents. Use the manufacturer instructions and your clinician's guidance for therapy and care.

Further reading: NHLBI sleep-apnea treatment information.