Why Replacement Defibrillator Pads and Batteries Matter
Replacing your defibrillator’s pads and battery is a crucial part of defibrillator maintenance, ensuring your AED remains operational and ready to deliver life-saving treatment. Electrode pads are single-use and must be replaced after every use.If unused, pads have a shelf life of up to five years depending on the model. After this point, the adhesive gel degrades and becomes ineffective.
Battery lifespan depends on the model but typically lasts up to four years from installation.
Pads and batteries must be replaced before expiry to maintain full readiness. To help, we offer a free battery and pad reminder service, where we’ll email you 3, 2, and 1 months before the dates your parts are due to expire reminding you to replace them.
Always check compatibility when ordering replacement pads and batteries. AED components are specific to each device. Using the wrong parts causes operational failure and prevents the defibrillator from functioning as intended.
How to Replace Your Defibrillator’s Pads and Battery
Replacing your defibrillator’s pads and battery is a quick process and requires only a few minutes.
To replace the pads:
- Disconnect the existing electrode pad cable from the AED.
- Set the used pads aside for safe disposal.
- Take a new set of pads and connect the cable to the AED, keeping the pads sealed in their packaging until needed.
- Depending on the model, store the new pads inside the defibrillator casing or in the designated compartment.
To replace the battery:
- Locate the battery housing and remove the old battery unit.
- Insert the new battery firmly until it clicks into place.
- The defibrillator will perform an automatic self-test to confirm battery readiness.
- Status is shown either by a green indicator light or a display screen reading ‘OK’, depending on the model.
Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for device-specific guidance and ensure only compatible components are used.
Maintain your AED with defibshop
At defibshop, we offer a range of servicing and maintenance contracts to help you maintain your defibrillator. Explore the different options available, and get in touch with our expert team to arrange your plan.
How do you dispose of expired AED pads and batteries?
Under the Waste Battery Regulations, old defibrillator pads and batteries are recyclable at defibshop, or your local waste portable battery recycling facility. If you would like us to take care of this, please return the goods to our business premises, which you can find by getting in touch with us. Used defibrillator pads without blood are not considered hazardous and can be disposed of as normal waste (make sure to cut the wires to prevent reuse). Batteries can also be disposed of in most used battery collection bins.
How often should a defibrillator battery and pad be replaced?
Electrode pads require replacement after every use or before the expiry date. Most pads remain in date for between two and five years dependant on manufacturer. Expired pads fail to adhere or deliver a safe shock and must be removed from service. Defibrillator batteries expire between four or five years from installation, depending on the model. Battery status must be checked regularly, and expired units must be replaced to maintain operational readiness.
defibshop provides a free battery and pad reminder service to support timely replacement of pads and batteries, ensuring every defibrillator remains ready to respond.
What battery does a defibrillator use?
Most defibrillators use lithium-ion battery packs to power the device. Some of these are rechargeable, while most are non-rechargeable, requiring a replacement before they expire.
Are defibrillator pads and batteries universal?
No. Defibrillator pads and batteries are not universal. When ordering replacement parts, make sure these are compatible with your device to avoid system errors, operational delays, or added expenses.
Who maintains defibrillator pads and batteries?
Owners and registered Guardians are responsible for maintaining their defibrillators, which includes replacing the pads and battery. To help you keep on top of replacements, register your AED for our free battery and pad reminder service and we’ll send you a reminder in the lead up to your expiry dates.
