Question 1

What is a CPAP machine, and how does it help with sleep apnea?

Accepted Answer

A CPAP machine, short for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure, is the most common and effective treatment for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). OSA occurs when the muscles in the back of the throat relax too much during sleep, causing the airway to collapse or narrow. This can lead to repeated pauses in breathing, snoring, gasping, poor sleep quality, and serious health issues like high blood pressure, stroke, and heart disease. 
CPAP machines work by delivering a gentle, constant stream of air through a mask worn during sleep. This airflow acts like a pneumatic splint, keeping your airway open so you can breathe normally throughout the night. In doing so, it reduces snoring, prevents dangerous drops in oxygen, and allows you to experience deep, restorative sleep. 
Using a CPAP machine consistently can also lower the risk of other health conditions linked to sleep apnea, such as diabetes, hypertension and stroke. At Sove CPAP Clinic, we offer a range of CPAP solutions across Victoria to help you get started confidently.

Question 2

How do I know which CPAP machine is right for me?

Accepted Answer

Choosing the right CPAP machine depends on your specific diagnosis, lifestyle, and comfort preferences. Not all machines are the same. Some deliver fixed air pressure, while others automatically adjust as your breathing changes during sleep. This is where the three main types come in: Fixed CPAP, BiPAP, and APAP. 
A traditional CPAP machine delivers one constant pressure level, which is prescribed based on your sleep study. It’s effective for many people with mild to moderate OSA.   
If you need a higher pressure or have trouble exhaling, a BiPAP machine might be more suitable. It offers two pressure levels: one for breathing in, one for breathing out, making it easier to tolerate.   
An APAP (Automatic Positive Airway Pressure) machine adjusts continuously throughout the night, responding to changes in your breathing. These are ideal if your sleep patterns vary or if you shift positions often. 
Your choice may also depend on practical considerations. If you travel regularly, a compact machine like the ResMed AirMini could be a great fit. At Sove, we offer free trials, machine rentals, and consultations at clinics across Victoria—so you can test what works for you before committing to a long-term solution.

Question 3

What features should I look for in a CPAP machine?

Accepted Answer

Modern CPAP machines are more advanced, quieter and more user-friendly than ever before. When choosing the right device, it’s worth looking at features that make therapy not just effective, but comfortable and easy to stick with—because consistency is key to long-term success. 
A popular feature is the ramp setting, which starts at a lower pressure and gradually increases to your prescribed level as you fall asleep. This makes therapy feel more natural and less intrusive, especially for new users. Many machines also include built-in humidification, which can help reduce dryness, sore throat or nasal irritation—particularly in cooler or drier climates. 
Noise level is another important factor. Most of today’s leading machines, like the ResMed AirSense 11, are engineered to run almost silently, making it easier for both you and your bed partner to sleep undisturbed. 
For those interested in tech, many CPAP machines now feature advanced therapy algorithms that automatically adjust pressure based on your breathing patterns throughout the night. These smart features—found in devices like APAP machines—help provide more responsive, personalised treatment with minimal manual adjustments. 
If you travel frequently or want a backup device, portability is key. Compact, lightweight models such as the ResMed AirMini are perfect for travel and offer full-featured therapy in a pocket-sized design. Battery compatibility also means you can take your therapy off-grid for camping or overnight flights. 
At Sove CPAP Clinic, we can walk you through the latest features, demonstrate top models, and help you choose a machine that suits your lifestyle, sleep habits and comfort preferences.

Question 4

How do I get started with CPAP therapy in Victoria?

Accepted Answer

Starting CPAP therapy may feel like a big step, but the process is simpler than you might expect, especially with the right guidance. The first step is confirming your diagnosis. This is usually done through a sleep study, which monitors your breathing patterns, oxygen levels and sleep stages. You can do this at a sleep lab or, in many cases, from the comfort of your home with a portable sleep test. 
Once your doctor or sleep specialist confirms obstructive sleep apnea, they’ll recommend the right treatment type—typically CPAP, APAP, or BiPAP therapy. That’s where we come in. At Sove CPAP Clinic, we help patients across Victoria begin therapy with ease. We offer CPAP machine trials, mask fittings, and consultations in person or via telehealth. 
You’ll choose a machine, get fitted for a mask, and receive support in setting up your equipment. We’ll also show you how to clean and maintain your system and help troubleshoot any early concerns. CPAP therapy can be life-changing—but only if it fits seamlessly into your routine. That’s why we offer ongoing follow-up, pressure adjustments, and support both online and in our local clinics.

Question 5

How do I know if my CPAP mask fits properly?

Accepted Answer

A well-fitting mask is essential to successful CPAP therapy. If the fit is off—even slightly—it can lead to air leaks, discomfort, and disrupted sleep. More importantly, it may prevent you from receiving the full therapeutic benefit of your treatment. So how do you know if your mask fits as it should? 
A good CPAP mask should create a seal against your skin without digging into it or leaving red marks. You shouldn’t feel air leaking out around the edges, even when you move or change positions during the night. If you wake up with a dry mouth, sore nose, or pressure sores, there’s a chance your mask is either the wrong size or not the right style for your face shape or sleeping position. 
At Sove CPAP Clinic, we provide professional mask fittings across our Victorian clinics. You can try different styles—full face, nasal, or nasal pillow—and we’ll help you find a size and type that suits your needs. We also offer trial periods so you can test the mask at home. Even the best machine won’t work if the mask isn’t right—so don’t hesitate to get personalised help from one of our experienced consultants.

Question 6

Can I get help in person?

Accepted Answer

Yes—Sove CPAP Clinic offers in-person support at multiple locations across Victoria, including Berwick, Box Hill, Frankston, Ringwood East, and Wheelers Hill. Our clinics are staffed by experienced CPAP consultants who can guide you through everything from your initial setup to equipment troubleshooting. 
One of the biggest advantages of choosing Sove is our brick-and-mortar presence. You don’t just buy a machine—we’re here to support you every step of the way. Need help adjusting pressure settings? Struggling with your mask? Not sure if your machine is working properly? You can book an in-person consultation and get hands-on assistance from our CPAP consultants. 
We also provide services such as mask fittings, equipment checks, machine rentals, and filter replacements. If your machine isn’t performing like it used to, we can assess it and suggest repairs, pressure re-titration, or an upgrade if needed. 
Prefer to stay at home? We also offer remote support via phone or telehealth appointments, giving you access to expert help no matter where you are in Victoria.

Question 7

How long do CPAP machines last?

Accepted Answer

Most CPAP machines have a typical lifespan of about five years, but with proper care and regular maintenance, some may last even longer. However, as the machine ages, its performance can decline—pressure delivery may become inconsistent, noise may increase, and internal components may start to wear out. 
That said, it’s not always obvious when a machine needs replacing. If you notice you're feeling more tired despite using your device regularly, or you start experiencing frequent leaks, these may be signs the machine isn’t working as effectively as it should. Also, newer models often come with significant improvements in comfort, connectivity, and quietness—making an upgrade well worth considering. 
At Sove CPAP Clinic, we offer machine health checks across our Victorian clinics. Our team can evaluate your device’s performance and advise whether servicing or replacement is necessary. If your machine is nearing the end of its life, we offer flexible replacement options including trade-ins, rentals, and interest-free payment plans—so you can continue therapy without interruption. Plus, we provide support in navigating warranty claims and manufacturer repairs where applicable.

Question 8

How much do CPAP machines cost in Victoria?

Accepted Answer

CPAP machine costs in Victoria can vary depending on the type of machine, included features and whether you're buying new or used. At Sove CPAP Clinic, we aim to keep pricing transparent and accessible, with options to suit a wide range of needs and budgets. 
We offer everything from basic fixed-pressure machines to advanced auto-adjusting models like the ResMed AirSense 11, as well as compact, travel-friendly devices such as the AirMini. For those looking for a more budget-conscious option, ask us about our certified pre-owned machines. Each one is fully tested, professionally sanitised and available at a significantly reduced cost compared to buying new. To make therapy even more accessible, we offer flexible payment plans, so you can get started right away without financial stress.   
All our CPAP machines are also covered by our Australia-wide price match guarantee, giving you confidence that you’re getting great value. We can also provide itemised health fund documentation to support private health insurance claims. 
No – you don’t need a prescription to purchase a CPAP machine in Australia. While a prescription can help guide therapy and ensure your machine is set to an appropriate pressure, it’s not a legal requirement for buying equipment. 
That said, a proper diagnosis is still essential. If you suspect you have sleep apnea, the best first step is a sleep study. This will confirm whether CPAP therapy is suitable for you and help determine which type of machine – CPAP, APAP or BiPAP – is the best fit. If you already have results from a previous study, our team can help you match your therapy needs with the right machine and mask. 
At Sove CPAP Clinic, we offer a range of support services including home sleep studies, pressure trials, and expert consultations to help you get started with confidence – no referral or prescription required.

Question 9

Can I use my private health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Yes, some private health funds in Australia will provide benefits for CPAP equipment under Extras cover. The level of cover and rebate amount will vary depending on your insurer and policy, but in many cases, a portion of the cost of your CPAP machine, mask, or accessories can be claimed. 
At Sove CPAP Clinic, we provide itemised invoices and documentation to support your insurance claims. Our team is also happy to guide you through the process and explain what information your fund may need. If you're unsure about your level of cover, we can help you ask the right questions to your insurer. 
Additionally, for customers without Extras cover or who are facing out-of-pocket expenses, we offer flexible payment plans through providers like Humm and ZipPay, helping to make therapy more affordable. If you're considering a CPAP machine or accessories and want to know your options, reach out to one of our Victorian clinics—we’re always happy to help you understand the financial side of your therapy.

Question 10

Can I buy CPAP equipment online in Victoria?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Sove CPAP Clinic’s online store is open 24/7, seven days a week, and delivers across Victoria and throughout Australia. Shopping online can be a convenient way to browse machines, compare features, and restock accessories like masks, filters, tubing, and cleaning supplies—all from the comfort of your home. 
Our online store carries all major brands, including ResMed, Fisher & Paykel, and Philips Respironics, and offers free shipping on orders over $100.   
However, buying CPAP equipment online doesn’t mean you have to go it alone. Our team is available by phone and email to answer any questions, help you choose the right products, and walk you through setup. If you’re starting therapy for the first time, we recommend a virtual consultation to ensure your machine and mask are configured correctly. 
As always, Sove offers an Australia-wide price match guarantee—even for online orders—so you can shop confidently knowing you’re getting the best value, with real clinical support just a call away.

Question 11

Where can I find a CPAP clinic in Victoria?

Accepted Answer

Sove CPAP Clinic operates several physical locations throughout Victoria, making it easy to get face-to-face support no matter where you are. Whether you’re just getting started or you’re a long-time CPAP user needing a machine check or mask refit, we’ve got you covered. Our Victorian clinics are located in Berwick, Box Hill, Frankston, Ringwood East, and Wheelers Hill, with more regional locations also available. You can book appointments online, over the phone, or walk in during clinic hours (though bookings are recommended for fittings and consultations). Each location is staffed by experienced CPAP consultants who can help with therapy setup, pressure reviews, troubleshooting, or general advice. To find your nearest clinic, visit our website or call our friendly team. We’re committed to making high-quality sleep apnea care easy to access—wherever you are in Victoria.

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