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If you've been diagnosed with sleep apnea, you know how important it is to have the proper CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) equipment to ensure that your breathing is steady and unobstructed at night. At first you may want to rent some CPAP equipment from a local home health equipment supplier to make sure you're comfortable using it and to ensure that it's doing the job properly for your particular condition, but for the long term, your best bet is to purchase a high quality CPAP system of your own.

There are many online companies that offer CPAP systems online and it can be confusing when it comes time to buy. The best companies offer a variety of choices, including various product and accessory options and make ordering simple for you. Here are some things to look for when comparing CPAP equipment companies:

1: They should bill your insurance company for you. A reputable CPAP dealer will bill your insurance carrier first, since this is a medical device that is prescribed by your doctor.

2: Does the company offer a variety of options? Choice is very important, after all, you'll be using your CPAP equipment every night. Comfort and control are to very important features. Ideally, you should be able to select from at least six different complete systems so that you can find one that suits you.

3: Can you order individual components as well as complete packages? If you need a replacement mask before the CPAP machine wears out, you don't want to have to buy the complete unit again. Be sure that you can purchase individual replacement parts as needed to keep the cost down. The best suppliers offer the masks, machines, carrying cases, powers adapters, headgear, spacers, etc. as separate pieces or as part of packages depending on your needs.

4: Does the site provide information and guidance? Don't order from a company that isn't clearly describing the function of the equipment and what it is appropriate for. Remember, this is medical equipment. The site should give clear information on what each type of equipment is for and how and why it's needed.

5: Does the company clearly state its prescription policy? CPAP equipment requires a prescription from your doctor. Any reputable site should make this clear and require that you submit a prescription that they will keep on record before you can order from them.

6: What optional features do they offer? There are certain optional features that you may not need or want right now but that the company should definitely offer. Some of these may be required at some point by your doctor; others simply make life easier for you. Some of these optional extras include: a carrying case for travel, a battery adapter for your car, boat or motor home, bi-level setting for inhale/exhale pressure, heated humidifier and ramping setting for pressure increase at start-up.

If you find a CPAP equipment company that offers all of the above features, you can order with confidence that you'll be getting a quality piece of medical equipment that will help solve your sleep apnea problems and give you a restful, restorative night's sleep.