Q: Is there an indoor, non-generator option to power my CPAP machine in the event of a power failure?
Sound Advice: Backup power provides security to CPAP user
By Don Lindich
January 7, 2022 at 2:00PM
A: Given that a CPAP is used when you are sleeping, it would be prudent to have an alarm to wake you in the event of a power outage so you can connect your CPAP to the backup power source. The Reliance Controls PowerOUT Power Failure Alarm and LED Safety Light (reliancecontrols.com) is a small device that plugs into a power outlet and sounds an alarm and turns on a bright light whenever the power goes out.
It's a handy little gadget that also can be used as a flashlight. I have several years' experience with Reliance Controls products. I chose their manual transfer switch when I added a backup power system to my home. I have been thoroughly satisfied with the quality and performance of the switch. The PowerOUT is readily available online for under $20, and I have seen Ace Hardware selling it, as well.
The Anker 545 Portable Power Station (us.anker.com) is marketed as a backup power solution for CPAP machines. It can run a CPAP machine with a 40-watt power requirement for over 14 hours, which should be more than adequate for at least one night's sleep.
Also called the PowerHouse 778Wh, it's pricey — $699.99 — but also versatile. It can power many small appliances and recharge portable devices such as phones, tablets, Bluetooth speakers and headphones. Devices rated at over 500 watts are not supported.
The 545 Power Station can provide illumination through three ambient-light and three flashlight modes. It has 10 power ports, comprising two AC outlets, four USB ports, two USB-C ports, a vehicle-class outlet and a DC outlet. It can be charged via USB-C, a car connection, an AC adapter or optional solar panels. A comprehensive display shows operating status and remaining power.
When powering any medical device, check with the manufacturer or dealer before connecting it to external power source. The manufacturer also may offer a dedicated backup power supply compatible with your CPAP.
A mind of its own
Q: Sometimes our Samsung HDTV turns itself on for no reason. We have a Samsung Blu-ray player that seems to aggravate the problem. I'll be watching TV, and the screen goes black with an "HDMI 2" notation at the top. (The player is connected to HDMI 2.) I have to shut off the disc player to get back to HDMI 1. Have you ever heard of this?
A: I can't say for sure without inspecting your setup, but it sounds like the Blu-ray player is triggering the input. HDMI is a two-way connection. In my system, if I turn on my Blu-ray player, the soundbar and TV pick up the signal and change inputs, assuming I want to use the player. If you turn off HDMI-CEC (called AnyNet+ by Samsung) in the TV menus, it should solve the problem.
Send questions to Don Lindich at donlindich@gmail.com. Get recommendations and read past columns at soundadvicenews.com.
about the writer
Don Lindich
Sin City attempts to lure new visitors with multisensory, interactive attractions, from life-size computer games to flying like a bird.
