How to Maintain Your AED: Pads, Batteries & Service Tips?
- Dr. Shruti Shah
- Nov 10
- 8 min read
Updated: Nov 11
An automated external defibrillator (AED) should not be kept at home just because people are supposed to keep it well-maintained; it is what actually saves lives.
Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is an emergency that requires time, and the presence of a functioning AED can help save lives in the case of a timely usage of up to 70 percent.
Due to some unfortunate circumstances, most AEDs in offices and other common locations have failed when required due to expired pads or dead batteries.
AEDs should be reliable, yet they need frequent maintenance and changes of components such as pads and batteries.
Gyms, schools, businesses, and other institutions of the government have to make sure their defibrillator (AED) is ready to be used as a rescue option.
This is a guide on how you can keep your defibrillator (AED) always in safe condition and the battery and pad in good condition to respond to an emergency by keeping it well taken care of.
Whether you’re a company safety officer or a homeowner, these practical maintenance tips will help keep your AED in perfect condition.
Understanding AED Maintenance Basics
Defibrillator (AED) maintenance is simpler than it sounds; it’s mostly about keeping the device ready for instant use.
Unlike other medical equipment, AEDs are designed to self-check their status regularly.
Still, it’s essential to understand what these self-tests mean and what you should monitor manually.
Here’s what proper defibrillator (AED) maintenance involves:
Visual Checks: Make sure the defibrillator (AED) status indicator light is green (or shows “ready”). If it’s red or flashing, the device needs attention.
Battery & Pad Expiry: Both batteries and electrode pads have expiration dates. Replace them promptly to ensure reliability.
Clean Environment: Store your defibrillator (AED) in a dry, dust-free area at normal room temperature. Avoid exposure to moisture or direct sunlight.
Self-Test Monitoring: Most AEDs perform automatic self-tests daily or weekly. Record these in your AED maintenance log.
Post-Use Inspection: After each use, replace pads immediately and check battery levels.
Quick Fact: According to the American Heart Association, nearly 1 in 5 AEDs fail during emergencies because of poor upkeep, mainly due to expired pads or drained batteries.
Regular maintenance ensures that your defibrillator (AED) works perfectly at the moment it’s needed, without panic or delay.
AED Pads: Replacement, Storage & Lifespan Tips
AED pads are one of the most critical components of the device. They deliver electric shocks that help restore a normal heart rhythm during cardiac arrest. However, AED pads have a limited shelf life because the gel adhesive dries out over time, which can make them ineffective.
Key Points for AED Pad Maintenance:
Shelf Life: Most defibrillators (AED) pads last between 2 and 5 years, depending on the manufacturer. Always check the expiration date printed on the packaging.
Post-Use Replacement: After every use, whether a shock was delivered or not, the pads must be replaced immediately.
Storage Conditions: Keep defibrillator (AED) pads in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures. Heat or humidity can degrade the adhesive gel faster.
Compatibility: Only use pads recommended by your AED’s manufacturer. Using the wrong pads can result in device malfunction or inaccurate readings.
Visual Inspection: During monthly checks, ensure the pad package is sealed and undamaged. If you see any signs of wear, replace them even if they haven’t expired.
Why Replacement Matters?
Expired or damaged pads can lead to poor skin contact, failed shock delivery, or incorrect heart rhythm analysis. In real emergencies, that delay could cost a life.
Professional Tip:
Always keep a spare set of pads in your AED cabinet, especially in high-traffic or multi-user areas such as offices, gyms, or airports.
Having backups ensures uninterrupted readiness even after emergency use.
Proper care and timely replacement of defibrillator (AED) pads are non-negotiable parts of maintaining a life-saving device.
AED Batteries: Lifespan, Testing & Replacement Schedule
AED batteries are the power source that ensures your device can deliver lifesaving shocks when needed.
While modern AEDs use long-life lithium batteries, they still require regular checks and timely replacement to guarantee reliability during emergencies.
Key Facts About AED Batteries:
Average Lifespan: Most AED batteries last between 4 and 7 years, depending on usage and model. Some may last less if the AED performs frequent self-tests.
After Each Use: Always check the battery level after an emergency event. Even if the device wasn’t used to deliver a shock, it may have consumed power during monitoring and analysis.
Low-Battery Indicator: Pay attention to any visual or audible warnings. A flashing red indicator or “replace battery” alert should be addressed immediately.
Storage Conditions: Store your AED and its battery at room temperature. Avoid exposure to heat, cold, or humidity, which can reduce battery life.
Battery Testing: Many AEDs perform automatic self-tests to check battery health. Record these checks in your AED maintenance log. If your model doesn’t have this feature, test the battery manually as per the manufacturer’s instructions.
Replacement Schedule: Always replace the battery before its expiration date. Keep a record of installation dates to avoid confusion.
Important Reminder: Never assume a new-looking AED has a new battery. If the unit has been stored or shipped for a long time, the battery might already be partially depleted.
Best Practice: Keep one spare battery in stock, especially for AEDs installed in high-use or remote areas where replacements may not be immediately available.
Routine AED Inspections: What to Check Monthly?
Regular monthly inspections ensure your AED is always in working condition. These checks don’t require technical expertise, just consistency and attention to detail. Most organizations assign a safety officer or first aid responder to handle AED maintenance.
Monthly AED Inspection Checklist:
Status Indicator: Confirm the AED’s readiness light or display shows “OK,” “Ready,” or a green indicator. Any red light or alert symbol means the device needs servicing.
Pads and Batteries: Check the expiration dates on both. Replace them immediately if they’re near expiry or damaged.
Cables and Connectors: Inspect for visible damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
Seal and Case Condition: Ensure the AED cabinet or case is clean, closed, and easily accessible. Dust or moisture can affect performance.
Accessories: Verify that all components are present, including spare pads, batteries, scissors, gloves, and a razor if applicable.
Operational Test: Some AEDs allow a simple power-on self-test. Conduct it once a month if recommended by the manufacturer.
Documentation: Maintain a logbook or digital record of every inspection, noting dates, observations, and any replacements made. This record can be crucial during audits or emergency investigations.
Tip: Schedule reminders on the same date each month. Consistency helps prevent overlooked maintenance, ensuring your AED remains ready to function without delay during a cardiac emergency.
Common AED Maintenance Mistakes to Avoid
Even though AEDs are designed for simplicity and reliability, small oversights in maintenance can make them fail when needed at most.
Avoiding these common mistakes ensures that your AED remains dependable at all times.
Frequent AED Maintenance Errors:
Ignoring Expiry Dates: Many users forget to replace pads or batteries on time. Expired components can prevent the device from analyzing heart rhythms accurately or delivering a proper shock.
Not Performing Regular Checks: Relying only on the AED’s self-test feature is risky. Visual inspections should be done monthly to catch issues like damaged cables or unsealed pad packets.
Improper Storage: Placing the AED in direct sunlight, near heat sources, or in damp areas can damage sensitive electronic parts and shorten pad and battery life.
Using Non-Compatible Parts: Generic or mismatched pads and batteries may not fit correctly or communicate properly with the device. Always use manufacturer-approved replacements.
Forgetting Restock After Use: After any emergency use, pads and batteries must be checked and replaced immediately, even if the AED was only powered on but not used to shock.
No Maintenance Records: Skipping documentation can cause confusion about service history and replacement schedules.
Tip: Assign AED responsibility to a trained staff member. Having one accountable person ensures consistency and minimizes the chance of overlooked maintenance.
Regular attention prevents most AED failures, ensuring your investment is always ready to save a life.
Professional Servicing & Calibration Guidelines
While AEDs are designed for minimal upkeep, periodic professional servicing is essential for long-term reliability.
Expert inspection ensures that all internal systems are functioning correctly, especially after years of use or exposure to varying environmental conditions.
When to Schedule Professional Servicing:
Every 2 to 3 years or as recommended by the manufacturer.
After any emergency use involving pad or battery replacement.
If the AED fails, it will self-test or show warning lights or error messages.
What Do Professionals Check During Servicing?
Internal circuitry and charging performance
Software updates and event memory review
Pad and battery compatibility
Overall calibration and readiness verification
Certified Service Providers: Always use authorized AED service partners or distributors for maintenance. They have the correct diagnostic tools and original spare parts to ensure full compliance with manufacturer standards.
Record Keeping: Request a service certificate after every professional check-up. Store it in your AED logbook for audit and compliance purposes.
Professional servicing guarantees that your AED remains accurate, fast, and fully functional, ensuring it performs perfectly in critical moments.
Where to Buy Genuine AED Pads & Batteries in India?
Finding authentic AED pads and batteries is as important as maintaining the device itself.
Using non-genuine or mismatched parts can cause system errors or prevent your AED from working during an emergency. That’s why it’s crucial to buy from a verified, trusted supplier.
BuyAEDIndia is India’s most reliable online platform for purchasing genuine AEDs, pads, and batteries.
The store offers certified products from leading global brands, including Philips, Zoll, Defibtech, Mediana, and Heartplus, ensuring compatibility and authenticity.
Why Buy from BuyAEDIndia?
Original Products: 100% genuine AED accessories, directly sourced from authorized distributors.
Wide Range: Replacement pads, batteries, wall cabinets, and complete AED units from multiple brands.
Transparent Pricing: Competitive prices with clear product details and warranty information.
Free Delivery: Nationwide shipping with fast dispatch for urgent replacements.
Expert Support: Guidance for selecting compatible parts for your AED model.
Whether you manage AEDs for a corporate office, gym, school, or public space, Buy AED India simplifies maintenance by providing easy access to authentic, high-quality accessories.
Regularly replacing expired pads and batteries from reliable sources ensures your AED remains rescue-ready, giving you confidence that it will work effectively when every second counts.
AED Batteries & Replacement Parts in India
Price: ₹55,000
Reliable replacement battery for LIFEPAK CR Plus AED units.
Price: ₹14,000
Pack of 10 batteries for ZOLL AED Plus units, ideal for multiple AED maintenance.
Price: ₹19,470
Durable replacement battery for Philips FRX and HS1 AEDs.
Price: ₹60,000
High-capacity replacement battery for Philips FR3 AED units.
Price: ₹60,000 (Regular ₹70,000)
Compatible replacement battery for Cardiac Science G5 AEDs.
Price: ₹40,000
Standard battery for Defibtech AED models; pre-order available.
Price: ₹63,000
High-performance battery for Powerheart G3 AED units.
Price: ₹3,000
Philips HeartStart multifunctional electrode pads are designed to work on adults and children over the age of 8 or weighing more than 25kg.
Price: ₹20,000
These single-use adult AED pads come individually packed with clear visuals for easy, professional use.
Price: ₹24,000
Defibtech Pediatric AED Electrode Pads have a life span of 2 years.
Conclusion
It is just as important to maintain your defibrillator (AED) as to have one. Their pads, batteries, and frequent inspections are also highly important to have your device continuously ready to save a life during sudden cardiac arrest.
With proper recommendation of replacement plans, regular inspection, and professional maintenance, most of the common mistakes made in the care of AEDs can be prevented, making them effective.
Having backup batteries and pads will ensure you can use your device without interruption and getting them from trustworthy vendors such as BuyAEDIndia ensures this.
AEDs are an essential component of the workplace, school, or public safety plan.
A properly maintained AED is a sign of a company being healthy, safe, and prepared, as well as protecting employees, students, and visitors.
Today, putting in time to maintain AEDs can save lives tomorrow.
It is important to check, replace, and service your AED regularly since in a time where every second counts, the most important thing is to be ready.
FAQ
How often should AED pads be replaced?
AED pads should be replaced every 2 to 5 years or immediately after they have been used in an emergency.
How often should AED batteries be replaced?
AED batteries generally need replacement every 4 to 7 years or after any emergency use to ensure the device remains fully operational.
Do AEDs require professional service?
Yes, AEDs should undergo professional servicing every 2 to 3 years or whenever the self-test indicator shows an alert or error.
Where can I buy genuine AED pads and batteries in India?
Genuine AED pads and batteries can be purchased from trusted suppliers like BuyAEDIndia, which provides certified and compatible products.
Can expired pads or batteries affect AED performance?
Yes, using expired pads or batteries can prevent the AED from delivering shocks correctly or analyzing heart rhythms accurately.
How can I keep my AED ready at all times?
To keep an AED ready, you should perform monthly visual checks, replace expired pads and batteries promptly, and maintain a log of all inspections and maintenance activities.
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