Outage planning guides
Medical Device Backup Planning
Medical device backup planning should start with the device manufacturer, care team, and emergency plan, then use watt-hours to estimate equipment runtime.
Use this guide as a non-medical energy planning worksheet for CPAP users and households with device charging or support equipment needs.
Suggested loads
| Load | Watts | Priority | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| CPAP machine | 20-80 watts | critical | Heated humidifiers and heated tubing can significantly increase energy use. |
| Device battery charger | 20-150 watts | critical | Use manufacturer-approved batteries and chargers. |
| Phone | 5-20 watts | critical | Keep communication available for caregivers and emergency updates. |
| Small lamp | 5-15 watts | useful | Low light can help with setup without using much capacity. |
| Router | 15-40 watts | optional | Only include if connected features are necessary and service remains available. |
Planning steps
- Read the device label and manufacturer backup guidance.
- Ask the user's care team or device provider about outage planning needs.
- Estimate watt-hours for the required runtime, including accessories.
- Prioritize manufacturer-approved batteries where applicable.
- Keep emergency contacts, prescriptions, and device settings accessible.
Example plan
- Duration
- 8 hours
- Estimated energy
- 250-800 Wh for one overnight CPAP session, depending on humidifier, pressure, and accessories
- Battery note
- Use device-compatible batteries or power stations within the manufacturer's guidance, with extra margin for overnight runtime.
- Generator note
- A generator may recharge batteries during long outages, but it is not a substitute for a medical emergency plan.
- Solar note
- Solar may help recharge during the day, but overnight medical device plans should not depend on same-day sun.
Mistakes to avoid
- Treating a runtime estimate as medical advice.
- Forgetting heated humidifiers, tubing, or oxygen-related equipment when applicable.
- Using unapproved adapters or improvised power connections.
- Waiting until an outage to test the backup setup.
Safety and limits
- Consult the device manufacturer, clinician, or medical equipment provider for device-specific guidance.
- Call emergency services or follow local medical guidance when backup power is not sufficient.
- This page provides energy planning estimates only and does not guarantee device operation.
FAQ
Can I use a power station for a CPAP machine?
Many CPAP users do, but compatibility, humidifier settings, inverter type, and manufacturer guidance all matter. Use this only as an energy estimate.
How much backup time should a medical device plan include?
That depends on the device and the user's care plan. Discuss critical runtime needs with the care team or equipment provider and add margin.
Related calculators
CPAP Battery Backup CalculatorEstimate CPAP backup runtime and nights from battery capacity, humidifier use, reserve, and efficiency.Portable Power Station Runtime CalculatorEstimate how long a portable power station can run a load after efficiency losses and reserve.UPS Runtime CalculatorEstimate UPS runtime for routers, computers, NAS devices, and other small electronics.Home Outage Backup PlannerPlan 24, 48, or 72 hour backup needs for critical home loads using battery and generator estimates.