FAQs

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What is home oxygen therapy?

Home oxygen therapy delivers supplemental oxygen to patients with low blood oxygen levels, usually caused by COPD, pulmonary fibrosis, severe asthma, heart failure, or other chronic lung conditions. Oxygen can be delivered via concentrator (which pulls oxygen from room air), compressed tanks, or liquid oxygen systems — your physician and respiratory therapist choose the setup based on your prescription and lifestyle.

Does my insurance cover the equipment?

In most cases, yes. We work directly with Medicare, Medicaid, and most major private insurers, and we verify your specific benefits — including any copay or deductible — before we deliver anything.

Do you speak Spanish?

Yes. Our patient services team is fully bilingual.

What is a CPAP machine?

A CPAP machine treats sleep apnea by delivering a constant flow of positive airway pressure to your throat, keeping your airway open during sleep. This prevents the pauses in breathing that define sleep apnea. Consistent CPAP therapy typically improves energy, alertness, and overall wellbeing.

What is a BiPAP machine?

A BiPAP (Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure) machine also treats sleep apnea, but it delivers two different pressures — a higher pressure on inhale and a lower pressure on exhale. Like CPAP, air flows through a tube into a mask over the nose or face. BiPAP is often prescribed when a single constant pressure isn't well tolerated, or when a patient has certain lung conditions.

Who qualifies for home oxygen therapy?

Home oxygen is a prescription therapy. For Medicare or insurance to cover it, your doctor must document through an arterial blood gas or pulse oximetry test that your oxygen saturation falls below a specific threshold at rest, during exercise, or overnight. AHCEQUIP works directly with your physician to gather the paperwork and arrange delivery.

Which is better, CPAP or BiPAP?

Neither is universally better — they serve different needs. BiPAP is often used for patients with pulmonary conditions like COPD, since the pressure difference helps clear excess carbon dioxide. CPAP and BiPAP machines look similar and use the same masks and supplies. Your prescribing physician will recommend the right therapy for your diagnosis.

Where is AHCEQUIP located and what areas do you serve?

We're headquartered at 3200 N 29 Ave, Hollywood, FL. Home delivery and setup covers all of South Florida — Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach, and surrounding counties. We ship CPAP supplies and select equipment nationally via UPS and USPS. Store hours: Monday–Friday, 9 AM–5 PM, with 24/7 on-call respiratory therapist support for oxygen and respiratory patients.

Where can I find CPAP mask fitting guidelines?

ResMed offers printable fitting templates for most of their masks. Print at actual size (disable page scaling in your printer settings) and check the reference ruler on the template to confirm accuracy. Fitting templates support — but don't replace — guidance from a sleep technician, physician, or equipment supplier. Contact us and we'll point you to the right template for your specific mask.

What's your return policy?

We accept returns on unopened products within 30 days of the original ship date. A 15% processing fee is subtracted from the original cost, and shipping charges are non-refundable. Opened products cannot be returned.

To help you get it right the first time, we provide detailed product pages, mask sizing guides, and customer service support before you buy — please contact us with any question before your order ships.

For manufacturing defects, contact us and we'll issue an RMA number. We'll work directly with the manufacturer to repair or replace the item on your behalf.

What's the weight capacity of a standard home hospital bed?

A standard home hospital bed supports up to 450 lbs including patient, mattress, and accessories. For patients above that, we carry bariatric/heavy-duty beds rated up to 750 lbs. Our team will confirm specs and recommend the right model based on patient size and home setup.

What's the difference between a nebulizer and an inhaler?

Both deliver inhaled medication, but they work differently. Inhalers (MDI or dry powder) are small, handheld, and deliver a measured dose in one or two breaths — convenient for on-the-go use. Nebulizers turn liquid medication into a fine mist inhaled over 5–15 minutes through a mask or mouthpiece — easier for young children, elderly patients, or anyone who struggles with inhaler coordination. Your doctor prescribes the right method based on condition and ability to use the device.

What's the correct way to fit a CPAP mask?

Fit your mask in your usual sleeping position. Facial muscles relax and shift when you lie down, so fitting while seated often leads to a poor seal once you're asleep. Whether you sleep flat or in a recliner, replicate that posture when fitting. Follow the step-by-step guide included with your mask — and if you run into trouble, call us or your provider.

What's the best way to clean my CPAP mask?

Follow the instructions in your mask user guide — cleaning steps vary by model. For a deeper hands-off clean, consider an automated device like SoClean 2, Sleep 8, or VirtuClean 2. These kill 99.9% of germs and bacteria in your mask, hose, and reservoir with no disassembly, water, or chemicals.

What types of oxygen equipment do you provide?

We provide stationary oxygen concentrators for home use, portable oxygen concentrators (POCs) for travel and daily errands, and portable oxygen cylinders. Our respiratory therapists help match the right equipment to your prescribed flow rate and lifestyle.

What types of hospital beds do you offer?

We offer semi-electric and fully-electric hospital beds with adjustable head, foot, and height positions. Accessories include bed rails, medical mattresses, and overbed tables. Our team helps match the right bed to your medical needs, caregiver setup, and insurance coverage.

What types of CPAP masks do you carry?

We carry all three major CPAP mask styles: full face, nasal, and pillow masks. Each fits differently, and the right choice depends on how you breathe, your pressure setting, and your comfort preferences. Our respiratory team can help you pick and fit the right one.

What safety precautions should I follow with home oxygen?

Oxygen makes other materials burn faster, so follow these safety rules:

  • Keep tanks and concentrators at least 6 feet from open flames, stoves, heaters, and fireplaces.
  • Never smoke (or allow smoking) near oxygen equipment.
  • Avoid petroleum-based products like Vaseline, oil-based lotions, or flammable hair products while wearing oxygen.
  • Secure oxygen tanks upright so they can't fall or roll.
  • Install working smoke detectors in every room that has oxygen equipment.

Our respiratory team reviews safety with every home setup.

What mobility equipment is best after hip or knee surgery?

Recovery paths vary, but most patients progress from a walker (days 1–14), to a rollator or cane (weeks 2–6), and back to walking unaided. A raised toilet seat and shower chair or bench are often recommended during the first few weeks. Your surgeon or physical therapist will specify requirements — we can deliver a full recovery package before your surgery date if you plan ahead.

What is your return policy?

We accept returns on unopened products within 30 days of the original ship date. A 15% restocking fee is deducted from the refund; original shipping costs are non-refundable.

Items that cannot be returned

  • Any opened product
  • CPAP, APAP, BiPAP machines, or humidifiers once the parcel has been opened (even if never used)
  • Personal medical equipment, for hygiene reasons

Defective merchandise

Contact us for troubleshooting first. If an RMA is needed, we'll coordinate warranty service with the manufacturer on your behalf. No refunds or replacements are issued until we receive and inspect the returned product.

Mask sizing note

Mask sizes vary across manufacturers and even across models by the same brand — a medium in one model isn't always a medium in another. Please check with us before ordering if you're unsure.

What insurance do you accept?

We accept Medicare, Medicaid, and a wide range of commercial insurance. A partial list:

  • Medicare
  • Medicaid — Traditional
  • Aetna
  • Ambetter
  • Any PPO with out-of-network benefits
  • Blue Cross / Blue Shield (through CCX)
  • Children's Medical Services (CMS) through Coastal Care
  • Cigna / EviCore
  • Gold Coast Hospice
  • GEHA (Home Link)
  • Magellan Complete Care
  • Memorial Integrated Healthcare (HMO and PPO plans)
  • Molina Healthcare of Florida
  • Positive Healthcare (UHC)
  • Orchid Medical (Workers Comp)
  • SO FL Comm Care Network (through Coastal Care)
  • Staywell (through Coastal Care)
  • Sunshine Health
  • UMR
  • United Health Care (no BILI)
  • Golden Rule (UHC)
  • Neighborhood (UHC)
  • WellCare
  • Oscar Health (PAP devices only)
  • Home Care Connect
  • Best Doctors

Don't see your plan? Contact us — we routinely add new payers and can verify coverage for you.

What daily living aids do you carry?

We carry commodes, shower chairs, transfer benches, raised toilet seats, grab bars, reachers, dressing aids, and other products that support independence and safety at home. Our team can help you assess which items fit your home and daily routine.

What are your shipping costs?

Shipping within the contiguous US via UPS or USPS:

  • Orders over $50: Free shipping
  • Orders under $50: $12 flat ground shipping
  • Mobility category: $30 ground shipping

Contact us for shipping rates to Hawaii, Alaska, or international destinations.

What are the signs of sleep apnea?

Common signs include loud chronic snoring, gasping or choking during sleep, observed pauses in breathing, morning headaches, dry mouth on waking, excessive daytime sleepiness, trouble concentrating, and mood changes. If any of these sound familiar, ask your doctor about a sleep study — untreated sleep apnea raises the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes.

What are the different types of CPAP masks and how do they differ?

There are three main mask styles for sleep apnea therapy, each suited to different sleepers:

Full Face Masks

Cover both nose and mouth. Recommended for mouth-breathers, people with allergies or nasal congestion, sleepers prescribed higher pressure, or anyone who moves a lot at night.

Nasal Masks

Cover just the nose. Lighter than full face with a secure cushion seal. Good for people who feel claustrophobic, want a clear field of vision for reading or TV, or have facial hair that interferes with full-face seals.

Pillow Masks

Fit inside the nostrils — the smallest, most minimal option. Best for users with skin irritation since they have the least contact with the face.

What are the different types of CPAP masks and how are they different?

CPAP masks and headgear come in many styles and sizes. Everyone has different needs, preferences and face shapes — you may need to try different styles before finding what works best.

Full Face Mask covers both the nose and mouth. Recommended for patients who breathe through their mouth, have frequent nasal congestion, or are prescribed high air pressure.

Nasal Mask covers the nose only. A good general-purpose option for patients who breathe through the nose and sleep in various positions.

Nasal Pillow Mask fits inside the nostrils. It's the smallest and most minimal style, recommended for patients experiencing skin irritation or facial-hair interference with other masks.

Walker, rollator, or wheelchair — which mobility aid do I need?

It depends on strength, balance, and endurance.

  • Standard walker (no wheels or two front wheels): most stable, best for people who need maximum support and can bear their own weight.
  • Rollator (four wheels, seat, brakes): better for those with good balance who need a place to rest during longer walks.
  • Wheelchair: appropriate when walking isn't safe or sustainable for distance.

A physical therapist or your doctor can recommend the right fit — and AHCEQUIP carries all three.

Oxygen concentrator vs. oxygen tank — which is right for me?

Oxygen concentrators pull oxygen from room air and run on electricity — so there's nothing to refill. They're the standard for most home patients. Compressed oxygen tanks are portable cylinders, useful as backup during power outages or for short outings. Many patients use a stationary concentrator at home plus a portable option or tanks for travel. Your AHCEQUIP respiratory therapist will recommend the right setup.

My mask is leaking — what does this mean?

Mask leaks can be caused by several things: incorrect adjustment, incorrect assembly, wrong size, or a cushion that's worn out and needs replacement. Start by reviewing the troubleshooting section of your mask's user guide. If the leak persists, contact our team or your doctor — we'll help you figure out which factor is causing the issue.

My CPAP mask is leaking — what does that mean?

Leaks usually come from one of four issues: incorrect adjustment, incorrect assembly, wrong size, or a worn-out cushion that needs replacement. Check the troubleshooting section of your mask user guide first. If the leak continues, contact us or your physician and we'll help identify the cause.

I keep taking my CPAP mask off in my sleep. What can I do?

This usually comes down to fit, pressure, or dryness — and the right fix is individual. Talk to your physician or respiratory therapist: they may recommend a different mask style, an adjusted pressure setting, a chin strap for mouth-breathing, or adding a heated humidifier. Our team can also troubleshoot fit issues directly.

I have to strap my CPAP mask tight to seal it — is that normal?

No. If you need to over-tighten your mask to seal it, that's a sign the cushion size or forehead support is wrong. Don't over-tighten — it can cause sores and discomfort without fixing the leak. If you're using a ResMed mask with a MicroFit dial, your clinician sets it at the optimal position and changing it significantly can cause discomfort. Contact us or your provider and we'll help dial in the right fit.

How quickly can I get my equipment?

Once we have your prescription and insurance approval, most equipment is delivered and set up within a few business days. Urgent and post-discharge cases are prioritized.

How quickly do you ship orders?

Orders placed before 5 PM EST Monday through Friday usually ship the next business day, provided your prescription is on file and the item is in stock. Most US deliveries arrive within 5–7 business days, and every order includes a tracking link by email.

How often should I replace my CPAP mask cushion?

Plan to replace your cushion every 3 months. Cushions wear out with daily use — skin oils, cleaning cycles, and natural material fatigue all contribute. Inspect your cushion regularly for small tears, pinholes, or anything that could cause a leak.

Keep masks out of direct sunlight and away from pets and children, which can shorten cushion life. Most insurance plans cover cushion replacement on this schedule — we manage the resupply paperwork so you don't have to remember.

How often should I replace my CPAP headgear?

Plan to replace your headgear every 6 months. Over time, headgear stretches and loses elasticity, which leads to overtightening and discomfort. Refer to your mask's user guide for specific guidelines. Ask us about your insurance coverage and our automatic resupply program so replacements arrive on schedule.

How often should I replace CPAP headgear?

Every 6 months. Over time, headgear stretches and loses elasticity, which leads to over-tightening and discomfort. Most insurance plans cover regular headgear replacement; our resupply program handles it automatically so you don't need to track it.

How many types of CPAP masks are there?

We carry three main mask styles: Full Face, Nasal Mask, and Nasal Pillow.

How long does equipment delivery and setup take?

For most in-network equipment, we deliver and set up within 1–3 business days once prescription and insurance are verified. For urgent post-discharge cases, we can often arrange same-day delivery. Setup includes in-home assembly, patient training, and a safety review — we don't just drop the equipment at the door.

How does oxygen delivery and home setup work?

After we receive your prescription and verify insurance, a licensed respiratory therapist delivers the equipment to your home, installs it, and walks you (and any caregivers) through safe operation, cleaning, and emergency procedures. We schedule routine supply deliveries and maintenance visits so you don't have to track them.

How do you ship and what does it cost?

We ship primarily via UPS and USPS within the contiguous United States.

  • Free shipping on all orders over $50
  • Ground shipping: $12 on orders under $50
  • Ground shipping: $30 on mobility category items

Contact us for rates to Alaska, Hawaii, or outside the U.S.

How do providers refer patients to AHCEQUIP?

Providers can send prescriptions and referral packets by fax or secure email — contact our referral coordinator for details. We process discharge referrals quickly, handle insurance verification and authorization, and coordinate in-home setup so your patient gets equipped without delay.

How do I update my insurance information?

Call (954) 772-5052 or email customerservice@ahcequip.com with your new plan info and member ID. Our billing team will re-verify coverage so your next order or delivery runs smoothly.

How do I request a return?

Contact our customer service team at customerservice@ahcequip.com or (954) 772-5052 with your order number and the item you'd like to return. We'll email you back with your return authorization and shipping instructions.

How do I reorder my CPAP supplies?

Call us at (954) 772-5052 or email customerservice@ahcequip.com with your patient info. We also offer a resupply program that tracks your insurance-covered replacement schedule and ships cushions, filters, tubing, and headgear automatically — no calls needed. Ask us to enroll you.

How do I pay my bill?

You can pay by phone at (954) 772-5052 (Monday–Friday, 9 AM–5 PM), by mail to 3200 N 29 Ave, Hollywood, FL, or in-store during business hours. We accept major credit cards and insurance copays. Questions about a statement? Call our billing team and we'll walk you through it.

How do I maintain my nebulizer?

Rinse the nebulizer cup and mouthpiece with warm soapy water after every use. Once a week, fully disinfect using the manufacturer-recommended solution (typically a vinegar-water mix or sterilization tablets). Replace the cup, tubing, and filter per the manufacturer's schedule — usually every 3–6 months. Our respiratory team walks you through the full routine at delivery.

How do I know what size CPAP mask to wear?

Most CPAP masks come with a printable sizing template. Print it at actual size (turn off any scaling in your printer settings) and measure your face using the template. Sizes vary across brands and even across models by the same manufacturer — a medium in one mask isn't always a medium in another. Your doctor, respiratory therapist, or our team can help you confirm the right fit.

How do I know what CPAP mask size I should wear?

Most masks include a sizing template that helps you measure your face and pick the right size. Our team can walk you through sizing in person or over the phone, and your doctor can recommend a size based on your specific needs.

How do I get a commode or bedside toilet for home?

Bedside commodes are covered by Medicare and most insurance as durable medical equipment when your doctor documents that you can't safely use your regular bathroom due to mobility or illness. Send us a prescription and we'll verify coverage, deliver, and set up. We carry standard, bariatric, drop-arm, and 3-in-1 (commode/raised seat/shower chair) models.

How do I clean my nebulizer?

After every use, rinse the nebulizer cup and mouthpiece in warm water and air-dry on a clean towel. Once a day, wash with mild dish soap and rinse thoroughly. Once a week, disinfect by soaking in one part white vinegar to three parts water for 30 minutes, then rinse with sterile or distilled water and air-dry. Replace the nebulizer cup every 6 months or as directed by your doctor.

How do I clean my CPAP equipment?

Clean your mask, tubing, and humidifier tub at least once a week to keep them free of dust, bacteria, and germs.

Weekly cleaning: Fill a sink with warm water and a few drops of ammonia-free mild dish detergent. Swirl the mask, tubing, and headgear around for about 5 minutes, rinse well, and let air dry. Hang tubing over a shower rod or towel rack so all water drips out. Avoid strong cleaning products — they can damage the mask or leave harmful residue.

CPAP unit: Unplug it and wipe it down with a slightly damp cloth to remove dust. The cloth shouldn't be wet — water inside the unit can cause damage.

Humidifier: Empty remaining water every morning, rinse, and refill with fresh distilled water nightly.

How can I keep my mask on at night?

Every patient adapts to CPAP therapy differently. If you're waking up with the mask removed or finding it uncomfortable overnight, a few things are worth checking: mask fit, headgear adjustment, and cushion condition. If the issue persists, discuss it with your physician or contact our team — it often comes down to a fit or style change rather than a therapy issue.

Does insurance cover mobility equipment like walkers and wheelchairs?

Most Medicare, Medicaid, and commercial insurance plans cover mobility equipment with a valid prescription and medical-necessity documentation. Coverage varies by plan and item. We verify benefits before delivery and bill your insurance directly — so you know your out-of-pocket cost upfront.

Does Medicare cover a hospital bed for home use?

Yes. Medicare Part B covers home hospital beds as durable medical equipment when your doctor documents a medical condition requiring positioning that can't be achieved in an ordinary bed — for example, elevated head for breathing or circulation, or traction for a spine condition. Medicare typically covers 80% after the Part B deductible; secondary insurance often covers the rest. AHCEQUIP handles billing and prescription paperwork.

Do you service wheelchairs and mobility equipment after purchase?

Yes. We offer wheelchair maintenance, tire replacement, brake adjustment, upholstery service, and power chair battery replacement. For insurance-covered equipment, many repairs are covered under the original claim. Contact us with your equipment details and we'll quote or schedule service.

Do you service oxygen equipment after delivery?

Yes. AHCEQUIP provides 24/7 on-call respiratory therapist support for oxygen patients, scheduled equipment checks, filter replacements, and on-time tank deliveries. If your concentrator alarms or stops working, call us anytime — we'll troubleshoot over the phone or dispatch a replacement.

Do you rent medical equipment or only sell it?

It depends on the item and your insurance. Some equipment (hospital beds, oxygen) is typically rented monthly through insurance, converting to ownership after a set period. Others (wheelchairs, walkers, CPAPs) are purchased outright or covered under capped rental. Our billing team will explain exactly how your insurance treats each item before you commit.

Do you offer portable oxygen concentrators for travel?

Yes. We carry FAA-approved portable oxygen concentrators (POCs) for air travel. We can help you pick a model based on your prescribed flow rate and travel patterns, and provide the documentation airlines require.

Do you deliver and set up hospital beds at home?

Yes. Our team delivers, assembles, and tests every hospital bed in your home, and trains you and any caregivers on safe operation and transfer techniques. We also handle removal and pickup when the bed is no longer needed.

Do I need distilled water for my CPAP humidifier?

Yes, always use distilled water. Tap water contains minerals that build up in the humidifier chamber, damage the heating plate, and shorten the life of your machine. Distilled water is inexpensive and available at any pharmacy or grocery store.

Do I need a prescription?

Most home medical equipment requires a prescription from your physician. If you don’t have one yet, our team can guide you through what to ask for.

Do I need a prescription for home oxygen therapy?

Yes. Home oxygen therapy requires a valid prescription from a licensed physician specifying the flow rate and duration of use. Our team coordinates directly with your doctor to confirm the order, verify insurance, and schedule delivery.

Can I travel with my CPAP machine?

Yes. CPAP machines are medical devices and don't count against your carry-on limit — TSA allows them through security, though they may ask to inspect the machine separately. For longer trips, a travel CPAP (lighter, battery-compatible) is worth considering. Use distilled water abroad or a waterless humidifier insert in regions where distilled water isn't easy to find. Ask us about travel CPAPs and destination-specific tips before your trip.

Can I travel with a portable oxygen concentrator?

Yes. All major airlines accept FAA-approved portable oxygen concentrators (POCs) onboard. Notify the airline at least 48 hours ahead, pack batteries for 1.5× your flight time, and bring your prescription and letter of medical necessity. POCs also run on standard vehicle outlets for road trips. We stock FAA-approved POCs — contact us before your trip so we can confirm your equipment is airline-ready.

Can I rent medical equipment short-term?

Yes. Many items — including hospital beds, wheelchairs, knee scooters, and CPAP equipment — are available for short-term rental, often covered by insurance as capped rental equipment. Contact us with the item you need and expected duration, and we'll walk you through rental options and coverage.

CPAP vs BiPAP — which one is right for me?

The decision is made by your sleep physician based on diagnosis, not comfort preference. CPAP delivers one constant pressure and is the standard treatment for obstructive sleep apnea. BiPAP delivers separate inhale and exhale pressures and is often prescribed for patients with pulmonary conditions like COPD, where the pressure difference helps clear excess CO₂. Both machines use the same masks and supplies, and both require a prescription.

A note about returning masks and CPAP machines

Mask sizes vary between models — even within the same manufacturer. Check with us before assuming your size carries over to a new mask.

Because of their personal nature, all machines (CPAP, APAP, BiPAP, and humidifiers) cannot be returned once the packaging has been opened, regardless of usage. Repair or replacement for in-warranty machines is handled by the manufacturer.

For out-of-warranty machines, repair may still be possible through the manufacturer. A diagnostic fee (which varies) is collected before the unit is submitted for assessment. We'll walk you through the process.

How We Support Your Health At Home

Our durable medical equipment services are designed to make homecare easier, safer, and more reliable. From delivery to ongoing support, we ensure every step is handled with care and attention.

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